2026 Groundbreaker Award
DDI is pleased to announce that John Crawford will be honored with the prestigious 2026 Groundbreaker Award. Join us in celebrating their distinguished service to Downtown Dallas. This award recognizes individuals or organizations whose leadership and contributions have had a lasting impact on the growth, vibrancy, and inclusiveness of Downtown Dallas.
Award Winner
John Crawford
John Crawford previously served as DDI’s President and CEO for ten years. With over 35 years of executive experience at Fortune 500 companies and in professional services, he played a key role in major real estate projects such as Bank of America Plaza and Cityplace. During his DDI leadership, more than $5 billion was invested in Downtown, driving major growth and revitalization. Widely known as “The Mayor of Downtown,” Crawford has received numerous honors for his civic leadership and continues to serve in various community and charitable organizations across Dallas.
Previous Winners
2025
Craig Hall and Ambassador Kathryn Walt Hall
Craig and Kathryn, founders of HALL Group, are celebrated for their entrepreneurial spirit, philanthropic efforts, and dedication to creating a thriving, diverse community. Their work in real estate, winemaking, and venture investments, along with their active support of local and global causes, has played a pivotal role in shaping Dallas into a dynamic global city. Join us as we formally recognize their outstanding contributions at the 2025 DDI Annual Meeting.
2024
Robert W. Decherd
Chairman of the Downtown Dallas Parks Conservancy, Decherd was honored for his role in transforming the city’s center by establishing parks throughout the central business district, including Pacific Plaza, West End Square, Carpenter Park, and Harwood Park.
2023
Ambassador Ron Kirk
Former Dallas Mayor, Texas Secretary of State, and U.S. Trade Representative, Kirk received the inaugural Groundbreaker Award for his lifetime of achievement advancing Downtown Dallas.