Heritage

BRAD HEPPNER’S COMMITMENT OF FAMILY AND BUSINESS RESOURCES

HERO arose from the Texas-sized commitment of the Heppner family to create a legacy of benefit to the state and its people. Aurelia and Brad Heppner’s shared philanthropic vision and Texas pride have informed HERO’s focus on improving Texas habitats, Texas arts and the well-being of Texans.

The Heppners are committed to HERO’s mission in multiple ways. Brad Heppner is founder and CEO of Beneficient (Ben), the Dallas-based financial services firm whose clients are the benefactors of the HERO initiatives. The Heppners’ passion for Texas – its heritage and spirit – is embodied in the historic family property, Bradley Oaks Ranch, which will provide a home campus for field work, applied research and gatherings for HERO’s University Members.

HERO allows the Heppner family to channel both business and personal resources to give back to the state through a bold initiative aimed at driving positive benefits.

Brad, Aurelia and their five children reside in Dallas.

Watch the video: The Heppners' Dream for HERO

The historic Bradley Oaks Ranch in Bradford, Texas
A Tradition of Giving

Philanthropic support of this state’s universities is a great Texas tradition, one that the Heppners experienced as students and wish to see continue. Aurelia attended Southern Methodist University and graduated from the University of Texas at Dallas, where she was inspired by the visionary generosity of the McDermott and O’Donnell families. Brad completed his undergraduate studies at SMU, where he saw the impact of family giving in Dallas – families such as Clements, Cox, Crow, Collins, Dedman, Maguire and others – on full display. Aurelia and Brad intend to also leave a legacy of support for research, scholarship, education and progress through the HERO program’s funding.