Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
McAllen, Texas – In a ceremony steeped in legacy, culture, and community spirit, Jim and Kathy Collins were named the 2025 Border Texans of the Year in a decisive moment that marked a continuation and evolution of one of South Texas’s most cherished traditions. The announcement came during a special event at the McAllen Convention Center, where civic leaders, honorees, and community members gathered to celebrate the history and future of the Border Texan of the Year Gala—this time, officially merging with the culturally vibrant MXLAN festival.
John David Franz opened the event by honoring the tradition’s origins. “Thirty-six years ago, this idea came up in the small community of Hidalgo,” Franz recalled, invoking the names of the local visionaries who founded the tradition in 1989. “It’s come a long way… This event has recognized exceptional leadership in education, healthcare, infrastructure, economic development, community growth, and more.”
The merger of two powerful cultural platforms—The Border Texan of the Year Gala and MXLAN—was framed as a generational bridge, as McAllen City Commissioner Pepe Cabeza de Vaca emphasized. “It’s an exciting day, not only for McAllen but for the entire Rio Grande Valley,” he said. “We all witnessed the union of two powerful cultural events. One steeped in tradition, the other igniting the spirit of a new generation.”
Cabeza de Vaca explained that the fusion of these two events represents more than logistical convenience—it symbolizes unity and forward momentum. “Together, the Border Texan Gala and MXLAN create a platform that spans generations,” he said. “One celebrates those who laid the foundation. The other invites us to nurture the leaders of tomorrow. Tradition and innovation are not separate—they are stronger together.”
The tone was equally celebratory and reflective as McAllen City Manager Isaac Tawil took the stage. “This year, the Collins… we have come so far,” he said. “We have achieved what many thought was unachievable for our region. Because of visionaries like Jim and Kathy, we continue to grow, not just to thrive, but to break boundaries.”
Dr. Guy Bailey, the 2019 Border Texan of the Year, was honored to announce the 2025 recipients. His words painted a picture of two individuals who represent the very best of South Texas leadership. “Jim and Kathy represent everything this honor stands for,” Bailey said. “Their work has strengthened our communities through business leadership, transformative civic partnerships, and deeply personal acts of generosity.”
Bailey described Jim Collins as a driving force in economic development and infrastructure advancement, consistently reminding others that “we’re stronger together than apart.” Kathy, he noted, has been equally powerful in the realm of community service, “supporting causes that enrich lives, inspire creativity, and expand opportunities for women, children, and families.”
Then came the honorees’ voices—humble, grateful, and deeply rooted in the values that define the Rio Grande Valley.
“On behalf of Kathy and myself,” Jim Collins began, “we want to say how incredibly honored and humbled we are. This moment means the world to us.” He reflected on his journey, acknowledging not only his family—five children and fifteen grandchildren—but also the many business and civic partners who have supported their shared vision. “This recognition isn’t just for the two of us. It reflects the many people, organizations, and partnerships that have shaped and shared our journey.”
Jim highlighted that this honor goes beyond accolades. “To be named Border Texans of the Year is a tremendous honor because it is rooted in something bigger. It’s about lifting each other up so that we can all thrive together.”
Kathy Collins took the stage with equal sincerity and a deep sense of purpose. “This year is so special,” she said. “Not only are we returning to celebrate the legacy of this award that was first started in 1989, but we’re doing it as part of MXLAN—a festival that shows the spirit, culture, and pride of South Texas.”
She expressed gratitude for the event’s philanthropic component. “Jim and I wish to thank the Board of Texan Committee for allowing the gala night’s proceeds to be used for several great causes,” she said, listing organizations such as the McAllen Performing Arts, Benny Cook Cancer Foundation, Quinta Mazatlan, South Texas College Foundation, and UTRGV Foundation.
“To our family, friends, and colleagues—thank you for always standing beside us. To the Rio Grande Valley people, thank you for letting us be a part of something even larger,” she concluded. “We are truly honored.”
As the event wound down, Franz reminded guests of the date for the upcoming gala: May 8th at the McAllen Convention Center. With tables and sponsorship packages now available, he encouraged community members to participate in a night that promises to blend tradition, innovation, and heartfelt celebration.
The legacy of the Border Texan of the Year lives on—not just in its past honorees, but in the lives and futures they continue to shape. Jim and Kathy Collins, in both word and action, represent the spirit of the Rio Grande Valley: service-oriented, future-focused, and deeply human.
