Texas Woman’s University honored Norman P. Bagwell, CEO of Bank of Texas and Executive Vice President of BOK Financial, with the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award at the 16th annual luncheon on February 21 at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion.
“An inspirational leader known for his business acumen, positive attitude, and devotion to the community, Norm Bagwell is a beloved and highly respected member of this community,” said Dr. Carine M. Feyten, Texas Woman's chancellor and president. “TWU is honored to present him with the 16th Annual Leadership Award.”
Bagwell began his remarks to the room of nearly 300 family members, friends, business colleagues and community leaders by praising Virginia Chandler Dykes and her lifelong work. “Virginia Chandler Dykes is a true pioneer who has made such an impact in education, and to have an award with her name on it is a real honor.” He also saluted the work of TWU, stating he has been a believer in TWU for some time. “The university and its programs have been a real difference maker in our community. I have a long admired the work of TWU and Virginia Chandler Dykes. Both have been at the forefront of building tomorrow’s workforce.”
Bagwell, the CEO of Bank of Texas and the executive vice president of BOK Financial, is responsible for all regional banks, commercial banking, business banking and treasury services across the eight-state footprint. Recently, he was named chairman of the Baylor Healthcare System Foundation and appointed trustee of the Salesmanship Club Foundation. Bagwell serves on several boards including the Board of Directors for Bank of Texas, Junior League of Dallas, and Panola Company LTD, and he is chairman of the CEO Council of the Dallas Arboretum and past chairman of the Dallas Regional Chamber. He is a member of the Salesmanship Club, Maverick Chapter WPO, Dallas Assembly and Dallas Citizens Council.
Bagwell continued, “When it comes to banking, I am old school. I was taught that the end game was to build a high performing business that will stand the test of time. I believe in doing business the right way with honor and integrity as well as building a team that is high performing, highly engaged, and collegial. It’s important to create an environment where people can fulfill their personal and professional aspirations; to take care of the client in a way that is differentiated; and to deliver for the shareholder. Corporately, I believe it’s important to be an active citizen and contribute to the greater good.
“Through his leadership at Bank of Texas, Norm Bagwell demonstrates a commitment to serve others, which is evident in Bank of Texas’ partnership with this annual event since 2007,” added Dr. Feyten.
Bagwell concluded his remarks sharing what he has learned on his journey.
“When we experience tough times, life shares the gift of perspective. In my case, I strive to do the following: try not to sweat the little things; make the most of every day; be impactful…make a difference where you can; try to be the part of the solution and not the problem; play the hand we are dealt the best we can; seek balance…body, mind and soul; and keep a positive attitude. But the most important thing I have learned is that LIFE IS A TEAM game.”
Bagwell is the recipient of numerous additional honors, including the Chairman’s Leadership Award from the Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Distinguished Alumni award from Southern Methodist University and Cox School of Business, and the Torch of Conscience award from the American Jewish Congress. In 2013, Bagwell and his wife, Robin, received the Margaret Sharpe Award for Community Service. He received his B.A. and B.B.A. degrees from Southern Methodist University, where he is a distinguished alumnus from the Cox School of Business.
The TWU award is named for alumna Virginia Chandler Dykes, who was director of occupational and recreational therapy at Baylor University Medical Center for 25 years. Dykes also established the Virginia Chandler Dykes Endowment to provide scholarships for TWU occupational therapy students. Luncheon proceeds will augment that fund.
The following graduate students, representing each of TWU’s four colleges, received scholarships, and each spoke at the luncheon: Kaye C. Rubio, College of Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy), Dawn Murphy, College of Nursing; Lorraine Cadwallader, College of Professional Education (COPE); and Geethanjali Ravindranathan, College of Arts and Sciences.
TWU holds the distinction of being the nation’s largest university primarily for women and is known for its strengths in the fields of education, nutrition, business, the arts and sciences, and especially in the nursing and health care professions. The public institution has an enrollment of more than 15,000 students and campuses in Dallas, Denton and Houston.
Attendees included: former Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award Recipients: Stephen Mansfield, 2017; Ralph Hawkins, 2015; Mary Brinegar, 2014; Myrna Schlegel, 2012; Kathleen Mason, 2010; Caroline Rose Hunt, 2009; as well as Charlotte and Fred Ball, Ann and Charles Eisemann, Angela Nash, Mike McCullough, Michael Meadows, Kathy and Nat Parker, Rowland Robinson, Ronald G. Steinhart, Roslyn Dawson Thompson, Vera and Robert Thornton, Velma and Jack Tolbert, and Joan and Alan Walne.
Guests enjoyed a luncheon of spinach and butter lettuce with brie and julienne of apple and sweet sherry vinaigrette; herb-dusted filet of beef with maître d ‘butter accompanied by Boursin cheese mashed potatoes, asparagus and a roasted tomato with milk chocolate mousse for dessert.
Sponsors include: $20,000: Bank of Texas, presenting sponsor; $5,000: Sue and Christopher Bancroft; Baylor Scott & White Health; Luther King Capital Management; The Rosewood Corporation; Panola Company, LTD; $2,500: The Men and Women of Hunt Consolidated, Inc.; Ty and Jan Miller; Locke Lord LLP.
For more information, visit twu.edu/vcd