Remembering A Legacy: Bruce Austin
We mourn the loss of Bruce Austin, a dedicated Houston Community College trustee and respected Harris County official, who passed away on August 13 at the age of 71. A memorial service in celebration of his life will be held on Friday, August 30 at Our Mother of Mercy Catholic Church.
In his long and impactful tenure, Austin served on the HCC Board of Trustees since 1989, with notable stints as chair from 1990-1992 and 2000-2002. Beyond his board responsibilities, Austin was deeply involved in regional and national community college leadership, showcasing his commitment to education. His contributions to Harris County, particularly through his roles with Precinct One and in Housing and Community Development, left a lasting impact on the community he served.
Not only was Austin a prominent public figure, but he also shared his knowledge and expertise as an adjunct professor at Texas Southern University and the University of Houston-Clear Lake. His educational background was diverse, with degrees in Political Science and Public Administration, among others, from reputable institutions like TSU and Harvard University.
Furthermore, Austin’s dedication as a U.S. Navy veteran, a respected scholar, and a community leader made him a cherished member of various organizations, including the American Society of Public Administration and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
Fond Farewell: Remembering Floyd Newsum
The Houston art scene grieves the passing of Floyd Newsum, a revered artist, educator, and co-founder of Project Row Houses. Newsum, who passed away on August 14 at the age of 74, leaves behind a rich artistic legacy that spans over half a century.
Newsum’s artistic journey included numerous exhibitions worldwide, with his works featured in prestigious collections at institutions like the National Museum of African American History and Culture. His visionary leadership at Project Row Houses in Third Ward was instrumental in fostering community engagement through art and creative initiatives.
Besides his artistic endeavors, Newsum was dedicated to nurturing young talents as a professor of art at the University of Houston-Downtown. His impact on the local art scene and his commitment to empowering the next generation of artists will be remembered fondly.
Newsum’s contribution to the arts, education, and community development reflects his passion for creating lasting and meaningful change through creativity.