On Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Houston’s literary and civic community will gather for an evening that blends global tradition with local brilliance. The Robert Burns’ Supper, hosted by Houston Public Library, will take place inside the historic Julia Ideson Building (550 McKinney Street), celebrating the installation of the inaugural Fellows of the Houston Public Library.

This elegant and spirited evening pays homage to the enduring legacy of Robert Burns, the great Scottish Bard whose love of language, learning, and humanity continues to inspire readers across centuries and continents. For Houston, a city powered by ideas, culture, science, and civic leadership, the symbolism couldn’t be more fitting.

Honoring Houston’s First-Ever HPL Fellows

In a milestone moment for the city, five extraordinary Houstonians will be formally installed as the Fellows of the Houston Public Library, each representing a pillar of knowledge that shapes Houston’s global identity:

• Dr. Ruth Simmons, Ph.D. – Fellow of Humanities & Letters
• Dr. Peter Hotez, MD, Ph.D. – Fellow of the Sciences
• Mrs. Leigh McCranie Smith – Fellow of Arts & Culture
• Ms. Laura D. Bellows – Fellow of Industry & Commerce
• Hon. William H. White – Fellow of Law & Civic Life

From scholarship and science to the arts, industry, and public service, these inaugural Fellows reflect the Houston Public Library’s mission as a center for lifelong learning across every discipline.

A True Burns’ Supper—With a Houston Twist

Guests can expect an unforgettable evening rich with Scottish traditions, including music, poetry, tartan flair, and time-honored rituals that celebrate the written word. Adding to the gravitas of the night will be special remarks from His Britannic Majesty’s Consul General in Houston, the Hon. Keith Scott, alongside reflections from Reyes Ramirez, Poet Laureate of the City of Houston.

The result? A night where global heritage meets Houston excellence—equal parts meaningful, memorable, and joyful.

The Robert Burns’ Supper is guided by a distinguished Host Committee whose leadership and support help bring this memorable evening to life. Serving as Honorary Chair is Sandy Gaw, whose commitment to Houston’s cultural and civic institutions sets the tone for the celebration. The Host Committee Members include Nancy Ames and Danny Ward, Laura Randall Bacon, Mimi Brown, Kate Cavanaugh, Hon. Charles C. Foster, Liz Wakefield, and Mary Jane Wakefield — a respected group of community leaders whose collective dedication underscores the importance of literacy, lifelong learning, and the enduring role of the Houston Public Library in enriching the city.

Key Links & Ways to Support

Purchase Tickets Here

❤Donate to the Houston Library Foundation: https://houstonlibraryfoundation.org

Learn More About Houston Public Library: https://houstonlibrary.org

Why It Matters

The Houston Public Library believes Houston deserves an extraordinary public library—one that uplifts minds, preserves culture, and expands opportunity for every generation. Events like the Robert Burns’ Supper don’t just celebrate excellence; they invest in the future of learning, literacy, and leadership across our city.

Together, we can aim higher. Together, we can make a difference.

Houston Style Magazine proudly encourages its readers to be part of this historic evening on

Thursday, January 22, 2026, where poetry, purpose, and Houston pride take center stage.