Since his passing on July 25, tributes have come from former presidents, business leaders, educators and civic leaders across Texas. He also created the nonpartisan policy organization Texas 2036. Those convictions led him to found Texas 2036 nearly a decade ago. As Texas approaches its 200th birthday in 2036, the greatest tribute we can offer Tom is not simply remembering what he accomplished. David W. Leebron is president and CEO of Texas 2036 and previously served as president of Rice University.