Jean Roach - 2026

Jean Roach is an icon in the Fort Worth community, widely respected for her visionary leadership, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to serving others. Guided by her belief in “leaving everything better than you found it,” she has dedicated her life to strengthening the city through meaningful and lasting contributions.

Her impact spans the arts, healthcare, education, and philanthropy, where her leadership and generosity have helped shape Fort Worth in profound ways. Among her most significant contributions is the creation of the KinderFrogs School at TCU. When approached by a group of young mothers seeking support for children with Down Syndrome, Jean recognized a critical gap in resources and boldly proposed the creation of a full-time preschool program. In less than six months, she secured a $1.5 million challenge grant and additional funding to bring the vision to life. Today, KinderFrogs stands as a nationally recognized program, transforming the lives of countless children and families.

A lifelong member of Tri Delta, Jean’s commitment to the organization spans more than 60 years of leadership, mentorship, and service. Her influence reaches from Tri Delta’s Foundation to its philanthropic partnership with Cook Children’s, and to generations of young women at Texas Christian University. In recognition of her extraordinary service and dedication, she was awarded Tri Delta’s highest honor, the Ernestine Block Grigsby Award. She is also a Sustaining member of the Junior League of Fort Worth, where her dedication has earned her the organization’s Sustainer of the Year honor, along with continued service in advisory roles for Christmas in Cowtown and as an Honorary Chair of the Grand Entry Gala.

Known for her integrity, humility, and steady leadership, Jean is fully invested in every endeavor she undertakes—offering not just her name, but her time, energy, and insight. At the invitation of Jo and Holt Hickman, Jean and her late husband, John V. Roach, lent their counsel and support during the growth of the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, contributing to its development and long-term vision. Today, Jean and her son-in-law, Tull Bailey, continue that commitment as valued members of the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame Board of Directors.

Together, Jean and John have been devoted champions for Fort Worth and Texas Christian University, leaving an enduring legacy of leadership and service.

In the spirit of Jo and Holt Hickman—whose legacy is defined by vision, generosity, and a deep commitment to community—Jean Roach embodies those same values, making her a fitting and distinguished recipient of the Hickman Legacy Award.