No Stranger to "Big Dreams"

Announcing Keynote Speaker: Jim "The Rookie" Morris

We are excited to announce the addition of Jim "The Rookie" Morris to the Texas Housing Conference keynote lineup. The subject of Disney's "The Rookie" critically acclaimed movie, Jim will speak at the TAAHP Foundation luncheon on Monday, July 22nd.

Disney's The Rookie Movie Poster
Jim "The Rookie" Morris

Introducing Jim "The Rookie" Morris

Jim Morris is no stranger to big dreams. Since he was five years old, he passionately yearned to play baseball in the major leagues. However, despite all his hard work and determination, a series of unfortunate events and injuries scuttled his career before he was twenty-five. Doctors told him he would never play again.

Then at age thirty-five—after a string of highly implausible events and at an age when most players are retiring—Morris found himself on the mound as a relief pitcher for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. His return to the game was so incredible that Disney made his story into a heartwarming film—The Rookie—with a stellar performance by Dennis Quaid. It was released to popular acclaim and was a huge box office success. It won the ESPY for Best Sports Movie in 2002 and the CAMIE award for Character and Morality in Entertainment.

Morris is the author of two books, with his most recent release entitled Dream Makers. It picks up where The Rookie left off. This compelling memoir explores the untapped territory of Morris’ life, including his contentious relationship with his father, his incessant and grueling struggle with pain and addiction, the mentorship with his wise and loving grandfather who kept him grounded, and the resolve and faith that drove him to overcome every tribulation. Dream Makers explores
the transformative power of surrounding yourself with the best, most accomplished people possible—inspiring you to overcome life’s obstacles and achieve your dreams.

Morris is a seasoned motivational speaker, traveling the world since 2001. He has participated in such prestigious events as The Million Dollar Round Table, twice. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008, from the Bobby Bragan Youth Foundation. Morris also started a Foundation in his name helping children in underserved communities find hope and inspiration through participation in sports.

Scholarship Recipient Table Sponsorships Available

Your sponsorship will help underwrite the expenses to bring this year’s scholarship recipients to attend the Scholarship Luncheon on Monday, July 22nd at the Texas Housing Conference. Costs include their round-trip travel, lodging, and meals — which are many times cost prohibitive and have prevented their attendance in past years.

As a scholarship recipient Table Sponsor:

  • Your company will be recognized with a branded table during the luncheon.
  • A company representative will be able to meet with attending scholarship recipients and learn first-hand how the TAAHP scholarship is making a difference in their lives.
  • Get a photo opportunity with our amazing keynote speaker, Jim, "The Rookie" Morris.

Don't Miss Our Exciting Keynote Speaker!