HONORING TEXAS-24 HOMETOWN HERO LINDA CUSTARD

On 2026-09-10, Representative Beth Van Duyne (R-TX-24) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING TEXAS-24 HOMETOWN HERO LINDA CUSTARD" in the House.

HONORING TEXAS-24 HOMETOWN HERO LINDA CUSTARD

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 143 (Thursday, September 10, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 143 (Thursday, September 10, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E895] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING TEXAS-24 HOMETOWN HERO LINDA CUSTARD ______ HON. BETH VAN DUYNE of texas in the house of representatives Thursday, September 10, 2026 Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Linda Custard. She demonstrated generosity and support for our North Texas community, and her alma mater, Southern Methodist University (SMU). Her life reflected a deep commitment to the arts, education, and civic engagement. She sadly passed away earlier this year, on January 22, 2026. Custard began at SMU as a speech arts student before earning her undergraduate degree from Mills College and later returning to SMU to complete her MBA at the Cox School of Business. She assumed several leadership roles, including serving on the SMU Board of Trustees. She also played a key role in advancing the Meadows School of the Arts and the Meadows Museum, contributing meaningfully to the university and the wider community. Custard was committed to helping initiatives that advanced the arts and education. She received awards recognizing her leadership and philanthropy at SMU, including the Cox School of Business Distinguished Alumni Award, the SMU Students' Association's Outstanding Trustee Award, the SMU Distinguished Alumni Award, and the Mustang Award. She was known for her dedication, influence, and passion for giving back. We thank Linda Pitts Custard for her service to our North Texas community and the lasting impression she leaves behind. ____________________