About the Event
Rice University, Founder’s Court
Cocktail Attire
Join chairs Scott and Judy Nyquist to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Rice Design Alliance. The 50th-anniversary fête is a welcome departure from the traditional RDA galas of the past. We are planning a beautiful experience under a stunning outdoor structure on the lawn of Founder’s Court in front of majestic Lovett Hall on Rice University’s campus. The evening will include a festive program centered around a dynamic cocktail party with a curated menu of hors d’oeuvres and specialty cocktails by City Kitchen. There will be flowing bars, cozy lounges, live music, dancing and mingling, and thoughtful surprises to celebrate RDA, Cite Magazine, and the next 50 years of design! Seating is available throughout the venue, along with accessibility options and valet parking. We’re excited to gather together not only to reconnect and reengage but also to honor our prolific past and to toast to a bright future.
The event will also kick-off our annual programming theme, Texas Is Urban, celebrating the urbanity, diversity, and dynamism of Houston and other cities in the Texas region. All event proceeds support RDA’s programs and operations. Through its creative programming, publications, and community engagement efforts—including the award-winning journal Cite, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year—RDA has made significant contributions to architectural discourse in Houston and strives to make Houston a better place for all. We hope you will join us for this milestone celebration and support the next 50 years of RDA!
