Frances Tarlton “Sissy” Farenthold Endowed Lecture Series in Peace, Social Justice and Human Rights

The Frances Tarlton “Sissy” Farenthold Endowed Lecture Series in Peace, Social Justice and Human Rights was established by the Board of Regents of The University of Texas System on March 3, 2016, to benefit the School of Law. Gift funds were provided by friends of the University. The endowment honors Ms. Frances T. Farenthold.

The following is from a statement prepared by The Bernard and Audre Rapoport Center for Human Rights and Justice:

The Honorable Frances Tarlton “Sissy” Farenthold is among the most distinguished graduates of The University of Texas School of Law. One of three women in the 800-member class of 1949, hers is an unparalleled record of political achievement and public service.

From her career as an eminently successful dissident member of the Texas Legislature, to her galvanizing campaigns for Texas governor and U.S. vice president, and her tenure as the first female president of Wells College, Sissy has been a significant role model for countless women and men across the country. This public service, and the many years she has spent since advocating on issues of peace, social justice and human rights has influenced generations.

The Bernard and Audre Rapoport Center for Human Rights and Justice honored Sissy for her relentless pursuit of social justice by endowing a lecture series in her name, with contributions from friends of the university. Houston’s Rothko Chapel, where Sissy served as chair of the board for many years and helped to develop important programming in human rights, will host the lecture in alternating years.

In the spirit of Sissy’s work exposing and responding to injustice and inequality The Frances Tarlton “Sissy” Farenthold Endowed Lecture Series in Peace, Social Justice and Human Rights brings to Austin and Houston internationally renowned scholars, activists, and politicians. The speakers, scholarship and programming will inspire audiences to think and act creatively when responding to the great challenges of our time.