The Texas Housing Hall of Honor stands as the pinnacle recognition for those whose vision and service have fundamentally reshaped the Texas housing industry—honoring individuals whose significant and lasting contributions have uplifted communities, advanced the profession, and defined the very future of housing in the Lone Star State. Inductees are selected annually from the categories of: builders, developers or remodelers; trades professionals and suppliers; government; and industry-allied professionals.
The 2026 Texas Housing Hall of Honor induction ceremony will take place on November 11 at the Dallas/Plano Marriott at Legacy Town Center in Plano, Texas, where Donald Ray “DR” Horton and Kathryn Ann “Toy” Wood will be inducted as members of the Texas Housing Hall of Honor Class of 2026.
Donald Ray “DR” Horton
Donald Ray “DR” Horton founded his namesake company in Fort Worth in 1978 with a vision of providing quality, affordable housing for every American. Under his hands-on leadership for over 45 years, D.R. Horton grew from a single local operation into the nation’s largest homebuilder, closing its one-millionth home in 2023. A pioneer of industry efficiency, he introduced the Express Brand to prioritize affordability for first-time homebuyers and established "Hortonisms" to instill a culture of frugal, customer-focused excellence. His impact is visible across 126 markets today where the company has helped thousands of families achieve the American Dream. Beyond construction, DR cared deeply about his employees and their families, establishing Camp Horton to provide transformative summer experiences for their children. Inducted into the National Housing Hall of Fame in 2024, DR’s legacy as an industry legend is defined by his commitment to scale, affordability, and the belief that homeownership should be accessible to all.
Kathryn Ann “Toy” Wood
Kathryn Ann “Toy” Wood dedicated nearly two decades to elevating the Texas housing industry through visionary leadership and tireless advocacy. As the longtime CEO of the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA), she transformed the organization into the state’s largest homebuilders association and one of the most respected in the nation. A licensed attorney with a deep background in government affairs, Toy was a formidable advocate, playing a pivotal role in establishing statewide residential building code consistency that improved industry professionalism and efficiency. Her passion for workforce development led to enhanced educational standards and the creation of the Toy Wood Legacy Fund, which provides scholarships to support future industry leaders. Toy’s humanitarian spirit was equally impactful; she was instrumental in founding and sustaining HomeAid Houston, mobilizing the building community to provide dignified housing for the homeless. A recipient of the NAHB New Executive Officer of the Year Award, Toy’s legacy of mentorship and selfless service has left an indelible mark on the Lone Star State.
Past Honorees
2025 Honorees:
*Tommy Ford, Dallas
*Delbert McDougal, Lubbock
Robert Wood, Lubbock
2024 Honorees:
Randy Birdwell, Bryan
*Larry D. Johnson, Houston
Harold Peek, Richardson
2022 Honoree:
Jerry Carter, Garland
2021 Honoree:
*Ron Connally, Amarillo
2019 Honorees:
Lyle Johansen, Austin
*Granger MacDonald, Kerrville
*Dan Markson, San Antonio
Eddie Martin, Houston
2018 Honorees:
*George Lewis, Dallas
Patsy Smith, Fort Worth
2017 Honorees:
*Chip Dence, Victoria
Michael Moore, San Antonio
2016 Honorees:
Ray Tonjes, Austin
David Weekley, Houston
2015 Honoree:
*Harold Pollman, Dallas
2014 Honoree:
*Ron F. Formby, Arlington
2013 Honoree:
*E.J. Burke, Jr., San Antonio
2012 Honorees:
*Jim Box, Houston
*Ray Ellison, San Antonio
2011 Honoree:
*Ted Schlossman, Fort Worth
2010 Honorees:
Kent Conine, Dallas
*C.W.L. (Dub) Dennis, Wichita Falls
*Jean MacDonald, Kerrville and Austin
*Martin Perlman, Houston
2009 Honorees:
Ted Dinerstein, Houston
*R.G. (Dick) Hughes, Pampa and Wichita Falls
The Honorable Randy Neugebauer, Lubbock
*Nash Phillips, Austin
*James Uptmore, San Antonio
2008 Honorees:
*Jesse Baker, San Antonio
*David Fox, Dallas
*J.B. Sandlin, Fort Worth
*Herman Smith, Fort Worth
*denotes deceased members
Guidelines and Application
Housing Hall of Honor Guidelines and Application is here.
Entry Deadline: June 1 (yearly)