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