Highland Park High School
Distinguished Alumni Awards
the 37th Annual HPHS Distinguished alumni Awards
Thursday, april 23, 2026 • Dallas Country Club
6:00pm - reception • 7:00pm - dinner and program
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2026 Honorees!
ben cervin '56 (posthumous)
Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient
A National Merit Scholar and ROTC leader at HPHS, Ben Cervin went on to earn degrees in physics, mathematics, business, and law from SMU and The University of Texas at Austin. Ben built a nationally respected legal career as a senior partner at Thompson & Knight, where he helped shape labor and employment law and mentored generations of young attorneys. He also served his country for 30 years in the U.S. Air Force and Texas Air National Guard, retiring as a Colonel and earning numerous honors, including the Legion of Merit. Ben gave his time and leadership to the Dallas Opera, Dallas Symphony and Texas Scottish Rite for Children, among others. Through his professional achievements, military service, and lifelong commitment to others, Ben Cervin exemplified the values of Highland Park High School.
KARL RATHJEN, M.D. '82
Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient
An athlete and Student Council member at HPHS, Karl Rathjen went on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas and his medical degree from UT Southwestern Medical Center, where he completed his internship and residency in orthopaedic surgery. He serves as Assistant Chief of Staff and pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Texas Scottish Rite for Children and is a professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He has held leadership roles in multiple national orthopedic societies and remains engaged in the community through support of the Ronald McDonald House Dallas and Camp John Marc, among others. His lifelong commitment to improving the lives of children and giving back to his community is a true reflection of the Highland Park High School motto.
Shaun Jordan '86
Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient
Shaun Jordan was a Texas state medalist in swimming while competing for HPHS and continued his swimming career at the University of Texas, where he was a four-time national champion, team captain, and one of the most decorated swimmers in program history. He went on to represent the United States in the Olympic Games in 1988 and 1992, earning two gold medals in the 4x100 meter freestyle relay team. Beyond his athletic success, Shaun has devoted time to giving back through free swim clinics for youth in underserved communities. Shaun also built a successful career in business and marketing after receiving his MBA at UT Austin. His achievements reflect extraordinary dedication, competitive excellence, and lasting pride in his Highland Park roots.
burgundy bass
Distinguished Service Award Recipient
Burgundy Bass is an educator whose more than three decades of service to Highland Park ISD left a lasting impact on students and colleagues. As a health teacher and girls' basketball and volleyball coach from 1990 to 2022, she demonstrated a deep commitment to students’ well-being and personal growth, emphasizing reflection, gratitude, and mindset development. As HPISD's Teacher of the Year in 2017, Burgundy inspired students to discover who they were and what they were capable of becoming. Beyond the classroom, she fostered meaningful connections with organizations such as the Grant Halliburton Foundation and The Family Place to further support student wellness. Her legacy is defined by the countless lives she touched as a beloved teacher, mentor and source of encouragement, reflecting the very best of HPISD.
mollie and bobby '69 halpin
Highlander Award Recipients
Mollie and Bobby Halpin's decades-long commitment to Highland Park ISD, through generous service, leadership, and advocacy has left a lasting impact. As a HPHS alumnus, Bobby has continually given back through roles such as President of the HP Sports Club, service on the HPISD Community Advisory Council, and leadership on major fundraising initiatives that strengthen district excellence. Mollie’s impact is especially felt through her more than 20 years managing the HP Scot Shop, transforming it into a beloved institution that supports athletics and school spirit across the community. Together, they have been steadfast supporters of the Highland Park Education Foundation, founding donors of key campaigns, and dedicated volunteers at multiple HPISD campuses. With humility, positivity, and a belief in public education, the Halpins are not just supporters of HPISD—they are true champions of its mission and future.
