Despite having just retired as Highland Park United Methodist Church’s senior minister, Mark Craig certainly hasn’t dropped out of sight. His friends and fans just won’t let him disappear.
And with good reason.
For the past 40 years, he has been an integral part of the Dallas community. From his days at Custer Road United Methodist Church in Plano back in the 1980’s to his most recent position at HPUMC, he has earned a reputation as “a passionate leader, an engaging speaker and an innovative problem solver.”
According to SMU President Dr. Gerald R. Turner, “When we both arrived in the summer of 1995, we mutually committed to strengthening the role of Highland Park United Methodist Church as the ‘campus church.” Through his close work and relationship with the Perkins School of Theology, his making the facilities of the church available to University departments, and his efforts to make church services address the needs and interests of students, faculty and staff, the church has grown both in number and in importance to the University community.”
Rev. Craig’s reach has extended beyond the church and campus. His association with former President George W. Bush has involved him in everything from private services for the family prior to Bush’s first inauguration to more recently doing the invocation at the dedication of the Bush Center.
There are countless other people and projects that have benefited from his involvement and they’ll be sure to be included when Mark receives the 2013 Methodist Health System Folsom Leadership Award on Tuesday, September 24, at the Hilton Anatole.
According to Methodist Health System Foundation President/CEO April Box Chamberlain, “Mark’s compassionate leadership and innovative approach have had a far-reaching and real impact on the Dallas community. He embodies the Folsom Leadership Award, and we are honored to celebrate his achievements.”
In following with the tradition of the award, the recipient determines how the event’s proceeds will be applied. In this case, the funds will benefit the new Charles A. Sammons Trauma and Critical Care Tower at Methodist Dallas Medical Center.
In addition to Lana and Barry Andrews and Natalie and Mike McGuire serving as event co-chairs, Brill and Jason Garrett will host a patron party for 2013 Folsom Leadership Circle Sponsors (donors of $10,000 or more). Sponsorship and underwriting information is available now, but individual tickets don’t go on sale until Monday, July 1.
* Photo provided by Methodist Health System Foundation