SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 523
 
 
  In Memory
  of
  Jefferson Jones Baskin
 
         WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the
  citizens of Austin in mourning the loss of Jefferson Jones
  Baskin, who died March 25, 2015, at the age of 48; and
         WHEREAS, J. J. Baskin was born on June 21, 1966, in
  Midland; he dedicated his life to improving education in the
  state and gained nationwide recognition for his extensive public
  and philanthropic endeavors; and
         WHEREAS, He settled in Austin after earning a bachelor's
  degree in political science at Trinity University in San Antonio,
  and he later earned a master's degree at the Lyndon Baines
  Johnson School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas; and
         WHEREAS, Mr. Baskin actively supported political
  candidates who promoted education in Texas; he served as director
  of the Texas Lyceum, a nonpartisan group dedicated to education,
  and as a director of Public Agenda, a national nonprofit
  organization that helps diverse leaders and citizens navigate
  complex social issues; and
         WHEREAS, He became one of the state's leading experts in
  philanthropy by promoting private and nonprofit partnerships,
  and he gained national recognition as a lecturer at conferences
  on issues such as strategic planning and best practices for
  fund-raising; and
         WHEREAS, Mr. Baskin was a loving husband and father who put
  family and faith above all things; he was a longtime member of
  Covenant Presbyterian Church of Austin, where he served in
  several leadership positions; and
         WHEREAS, From membership in his children's Parent Teacher
  Association to work with national foundations, Mr. Baskin was
  committed to improving the quality of public education; he was
  respected for his integrity and compassion, and his valiant fight
  against cancer was inspirational; he leaves behind memories that
  will long be cherished by all who were privileged to share in his
  life; now, therefore, be it
         RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th
  Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
  family of Jefferson Jones Baskin; and, be it further
         RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
  his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas
  Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in
  memory of Jefferson Baskin.
  Watson
   
   
   
    ________________________________ 
        President of the Senate
     
        I hereby certify that the
    above Resolution was adopted by
    the Senate on April 8, 2015, by a
    rising vote.
   
   
   
    ________________________________ 
        Secretary of the Senate
   
   
   
    ________________________________ 
         Member, Texas Senate