Board Member Spotlight:
George Nichols
George Nichols is the longest-serving director on the Buffalo Gap Historic Village board. His tenure dates back to the early 1990s, long before Taylor County owned the property. Over the years, he has held every office on the board and served as the unofficial historian to document the origins of both structures and artifacts.
In his professional life, George was a major force in the shoe industry, serving as President & CEO of three national shoe companies. His experience in golf shoes led to a role as Chairman & CEO of the Arnold Palmer Golf Company, which in turn led to his role as leader of the Abilene Psychiatric Center, bringing him and his wife – the noted artist Tootsie Nichols – back home to Abilene.
George’s passion for the Historic Village remains strong. “We need to keep finding new board and committee members, as each person brings a great perspective and keeps us fresh,” he says, lauding recent new board members. He speaks almost reverently of the Dian Graves Owen and Dodge Jones foundations, citing the long-term impact of their support. And he says the board needs to continually update its vision and strategic plan to keep the Village relevant and sustainable for generations to come.
On his wish list? To better engage the Dyess AFB population. “Many of the airmen are only in our market a short time,” he notes. “We need to make sure they’re aware of this fantastic historical opportunity and encourage their families to come experience it.” Members of the military, especially, seem to have a fondness for history, and appreciate having such a treasure “right in their back yard” when they become aware of it.
The Buffalo Gap Historic Village has benefited tremendously from George’s wisdom and insight and hopes you’ll join us in saying “thank you” for his leadership!
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