PLANO, Texas – Donald Ray “DR” Horton and Kathryn Ann “Toy” Wood were inducted into the 2026 Texas Housing Hall of Honor at the Texas Association of Builders Excellence in Leadership Dinner on the evening of Wednesday, November 11, at the Dallas Plano Marriott at Legacy Town Center in Dallas, Texas.
The Texas Housing Hall of Honor is the highest recognition for individuals whose vision and service have fundamentally reshaped the state’s housing industry—uplifting communities, advancing the profession, and defining the future of housing in Texas. Inductees are selected annually from among builders, developers, remodelers, trades professionals and suppliers, government, and industry-allied professionals. The 2026 ceremony was presided over by TAB CEO Scott Norman and former TAB Presidents and Co-Chairs of the Texas Housing Hall of Honor Board of Governors, Don Allen and Brett Martin.
Donald Ray “DR” Horton
Donald Ray “DR” Horton founded his namesake company in Fort Worth in 1978 with a vision of providing quality, affordable housing for every American. Under his hands-on leadership for over 45 years, D.R. Horton grew from a single local operation into the nation’s largest homebuilder, closing its one-millionth home in 2023. A pioneer of industry efficiency, he introduced the Express Brand to prioritize affordability for first-time homebuyers and established "Hortonisms" to instill a culture of frugal, customer-focused excellence. His impact is visible across 126 markets today where the company has helped thousands of families achieve the American Dream. Beyond construction, DR cared deeply about his employees and their families, establishing Camp Horton to provide transformative summer experiences for their children. Inducted into the National Housing Hall of Fame in 2024, DR’s legacy as an industry legend is defined by his commitment to scale, affordability, and the belief that homeownership should be accessible to all.
See Donald Ray “DR” Horton’s story in this video.
Kathryn Ann “Toy” Wood
Kathryn Ann “Toy” Wood dedicated nearly two decades to elevating the Texas housing industry through visionary leadership and tireless advocacy. As the longtime CEO of the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA), she transformed the organization into the state’s largest homebuilders association and one of the most respected in the nation. A licensed attorney with a deep background in government affairs, Toy was a formidable advocate, playing a pivotal role in establishing statewide residential building code consistency that improved industry professionalism and efficiency. Her passion for workforce development led to enhanced educational standards and the creation of the Toy Wood Legacy Fund, which provides scholarships to support future industry leaders. Toy’s humanitarian spirit was equally impactful; she was instrumental in founding and sustaining HomeAid Houston, mobilizing the building community to provide dignified housing for the homeless. A former recipient of the NAHB New Executive Officer of the Year Award, Toy’s legacy of mentorship and selfless service has left an indelible mark on the Lone Star State.
See Kathryn Ann “Toy” Wood's story in this video.
About the Texas Association of Builders: Founded in 1946, the Texas Association of Builders is an affiliate of the National Association of Home Builders and has 27 local home builders associations across Texas. With a membership of nearly 10,000 representing over 758,000 jobs and more than $71.5 billion annually in the Texas economy, TAB plays a crucial role in providing housing for Texans.