Former U.S. Senator Don Nickles will speak to members and guests of the Austin Economic Club on Friday, March 11, 2005. The luncheon, to be held at Hilton Austin Hotel, will begin at noon. The event is part of Austin Economic Club’s 2005 Distinguished Lecture Series which will feature guest speakers presenting ideas, trends and movements to executives and other community leaders interested in public affairs and the evolving business landscape. 

Don Nickles served 24 years as a U.S. Senator on behalf of Oklahoma. Elected in 1980 at the age of 31, Nickles was one of the youngest members of the U.S. Senate. In 1998, he became the first Oklahoma Republican ever elected to a fourth term. During his 24 years in public office, Nickles held numerous leadership positions, including Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, Assistant Republican Leader, Chairman of the Republican Senatorial Committee, and three-term Chairman of the Republican Policy Committee. He also served as a member of the Senate Finance Committee, Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Rules and Administration Committee. 

During his Senate career, Nickles worked tirelessly to expand personal, economic and religious freedom both at home and abroad. He was the primary sponsor of President Bush’s 2003 tax cuts and has worked for 20 years to eliminate the burden of the death tax. As one of our nation’s most knowledgeable statesman on taxes, healthcare, energy and international policy, he offers great insight and perspective on the inner workings of Congress.

Retiring from the U.S. Senate in January of 2005, Nickles recently formed The Nickles Group, a Washington-based consulting and business venture firm. Additionally, in February of this year, he was elected to Valero Energy Corporation’s board of directors.