Before she died in 2006, Governor Ann Richards laid out her vision for the Ann Richards School. As the first in her family to attend college, she was committed to advancing education and empowering young women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders (ARS) is dedicated to preparing young women to attend and graduate from college, commit to a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle, lead with courage and compassion, and solve problems creatively and ethically in support of their global community. The Ann Richards School Foundation raises funds and forms partnerships to advance education, empower young women, and create opportunities for girls who may otherwise be held back from achieving their full potential.
Reach for the Stars is the Ann Richards School Foundation’s annual fundraising gala at the Four Seasons Austin, to recognize the graduating class of the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders and celebrate their bright futures. Table sponsorships are available beginning at $3,000, and table sponsors are seated with graduating seniors.
The Governor's Council is a way to support Ann Richard's legacy with a gift of $1,000 or more. Governor’s Council members receive special donor benefits that include acknowledgement on the ARS website, name displayed on their donor wall, and an invitation to the annual Governor’s Council event and speakers series.
