A Legacy of Urban Excellence: Honoring Bob Eury and Kerry Morrison
The Dan Sweat Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest honor bestowed by the International Downtown Association (IDA). It was presented before the membership in Seattle at the 70th Annual Conference & Marketplace to two exceptional individuals whose achievements have profoundly shaped urban place management and leadership. Bob Eury and Kerry Morrison were recognized for their outstanding contributions to their respective cities and their unwavering commitment to improving the urban experience.
Bob Eury: A Visionary Leader in Houston
Bob Eury’s career in Houston is marked by his innovative approach to urban development and management. Bob’s accomplishments include significant impacts on the arts, convention infrastructure and the development of three major sports stadiums, all of which have been central to Houston’s revitalization. His strategic guidance was instrumental in addressing the city’s commuting challenges, improving transit solutions and enhancing sustainability. His efforts in revitalizing the Buffalo Bayou and its surrounding parks transformed this essential urban river into a vibrant public space. His commitment to social issues is equally impressive. He played a pivotal role in creating the Way Home Houston program, a pioneering initiative in addressing homelessness that has become a national model. His legacy as a mentor, leader and innovator continues to inspire future generations of urban place managers and civic leaders.
Kerry Morrison: A Champion for Homelessness and Mental Health Advocacy
Kerry Morrison’s dedication to making a substantial impact on her community is evident in her work as the Executive Director of the Hollywood Property Owners Association from 1997 to 2018. Her unwavering commitment to addressing homelessness and mental health issues led her to delve deeply into the complexities of these problems and seek innovative solutions. Through her dedication and advocacy, Morrison has been a beacon of hope for individuals experiencing homelessness, spearheading initiatives that aim to strike a harmonious balance between the needs of businesses, residents, property owners and those in need. Kerry was instrumental in securing significant funding for initiatives that continue to benefit the community. Her work has left an enduring legacy in the field, inspiring others to seek meaningful solutions to persistent issues.
A Legacy of Excellence
Both Bob Eury and Kerry Morrison have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation and a deep commitment to improving the quality of life in their respective cities. Their achievements are a testament to the power of visionary urban place management and advocacy. By honoring them with the Dan Sweat Lifetime Achievement Award, IDA recognizes their extraordinary contributions and hopes to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
If you missed the 2024 Dan Sweat Lifetime Achievement Award presentation in Seattle, you can watch now by clicking here.