Barbette's Legacy, in partnership with Round Rock Pride, honors the pioneering drag performer Vander Barbette from Round Rock, TX.
Our mission is to celebrate Barbette's inspiring legacy by awarding scholarships in his name, supporting the educational and artistic aspirations of the LGBTQ+ community. Barbette, a trailblazer in drag performance during the 1920s and 1930s and valedictorian of Round Rock High Class of 1913, exemplifies the spirit of excellence and courage we strive to uphold.
Announcing Our First-Ever Barbette’s Legacy Scholar:
Gabriella Heath
Round Rock Pride and the Barbette’s Legacy Board are proud to announce the recipient of the inaugural Barbette’s Legacy Scholarship: Gabriella Heath.
Gabriella is a talented artist from Round Rock who is currently studying Comic Arts at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Their passion for storytelling, creativity, and advocacy embodies the spirit of Barbette, an icon of courage, artistry, and authenticity.
Last month, we had the honor of celebrating Gabriella at a special dinner with members of Barbette’s family, our scholarship board, and community partners. It was a moving and long-awaited moment for Barbette’s loved ones, who have dreamed of honoring his legacy in his hometown for years.
We are so proud to support Gabriella’s journey and look forward to watching them continue to inspire through their art.
Applications for the 2026 Barbette’s Legacy Scholarship will open in early 2026.
Please check back on this page or follow @roundrockpride and @barbetteslegacy on social media for updates.