Remembering Joe R. Long
A visionary philanthropist, devoted champion of the arts, and beloved friend of the Long Center
The Long Center for the Performing Arts honors the life and legacy of Joe R. Long, whose extraordinary generosity, unwavering commitment to the arts, and profound love for the Austin community helped shape the cultural landscape of Central Texas.
A visionary philanthropist and dedicated civic leader, Joe believed deeply in the power of the arts to bring people together. Alongside his beloved wife, Dr. Teresa Lozano Long, he helped turn a bold vision for Austin into a reality: a world-class performing arts center that would serve as a gathering place for artists, audiences, and generations of Central Texans.
Joe and Teresa were instrumental in making the Long Center possible. In 1999, their transformational $20 million gift helped lay the foundation for what would become one of Austin’s most treasured cultural landmarks. When the Long Center opened its doors in 2008, it represented far more than a new performance venue. It was the realization of a dream to create a welcoming home for creativity, artistic expression, and community connection in the heart of Austin.
Today, the Long Center stands as an enduring testament to their shared belief that the arts should be accessible to everyone.
“Joe Long believed deeply in what the arts could mean for Austin, and he had the vision and generosity to help make that belief a reality,” said Cory Baker, President & CEO of the Long Center. “What Joe and Teresa created together was never just about a building. It was about giving this community a place to come together, to be inspired, and to experience the joy of the arts. Every day, we see the impact of that vision in the artists who perform here and the people who gather here. Every performance, every celebration, and every new opporunity to bring the community together reflects the vision Joe and Teresa shared for this place. We are incredibly grateful for Joe’s friendship, leadership, and the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.”
For Joe, supporting the arts was never simply about building institutions. It was about creating opportunities, nurturing talent, and ensuring that the cultural richness of Austin could be experienced and enjoyed by all.
Together, Joe and Teresa shared an extraordinary partnership rooted in a belief in education, opportunity, and service to others. Their philanthropy extended well beyond the performing arts, supporting education, healthcare, and programs that opened doors for young people and underserved communities throughout Texas.
Through the Long Foundation, established in 1999, they created a lasting vehicle for investing in organizations and intiatives that improve lives. Their generosity has helped countless individuals pursue their dreams, discover new possibilities, and build brighter futures across the state of Texas.
Following Teresa’s passing in 2021, the Long Center continued to honor the couple’s remarkable contributions and their belief that the arts have the power to inspire and unite, creating a new annual event to celebrate this vision, Teresa Lozano Long Community Day. Their names are woven into the fabric of our organization, and their legacy will continue to guide our mission for generations to come.
We extend our deepest condolences to Joe’s family, friends, and all those whose lives were enriched by his kindness, leadership, and generosity.
The Long Center will forever be grateful for Joe’s extraordinary vision and the lasting gift he and Teresa gave to Austin.
