Dr. Denton A. Cooley will be honored for his foundational work leading to the knowledge and discoveries that have advanced the progress against heart and vascular disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Dr. James T. Willerson, president and medical director, the Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, will be honored as he leads the institute into the next era of reducing and ultimately preventing the devastating toll of heart and vascular disease.

Former U.S. Secretary of State James A. Baker will introduce Dr. Cooley. Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Don Evans will act as emcee. Various dignitaries including former board chairman Meredith Long, current chairman Steve Miller, advisory board members Nolan Ryan and Hakeem Olajuwon, Texas Gov. Rick Perry and many others will be in attendance.