Morton Meyerson, affectionately known as Mort, finds himself reflecting on the current billionaire landscape in Dallas. Recently relocated to a one-story home in North Dallas, he expresses his confusion over the new wave of wealth that has emerged in the city.
Meyerson, who has deep ties to the city’s business and cultural sectors, is best recognized for the symphony hall named after him, a stunning I.M. Pei architecture. His contributions extend far beyond this landmark, marking him as a key player in the establishment of Electronic Data Systems (EDS), Ross Perot’s pioneering data-processing company.
He has often been referred to as “Perot’s right-hand man,” a label he resists, fearing it implies a lack of independence in his decision-making. Instead, he regards his role at EDS as a collaborative achievement, reflecting the contributions of a dedicated team rather than a singular vision.
Meyerson’s innovative spirit led him to conceptualize the practice known today as “outsourcing,” years before the term gained popularity. His career trajectory, which also included leadership roles at Perot Systems, a Wall Street brokerage, and General Motors, underscores his impact on the evolution of modern business practices.
His philanthropic endeavors are equally noteworthy. Ross Perot’s purchase of the naming rights to the Dallas Symphony Hall for $10 million in 1984 was not simply a business transaction; it was a gesture acknowledging a friend who played a significant role in his success.
As he approaches his 87th birthday, Morton Meyerson stands as one of the last prominent figures of Silicon Prairie, a community he shaped alongside giants like Perot, Eugene McDermott, and J. Erik Jonsson. However, he observes a stark contrast in the philanthropic engagement of today’s billionaires in Dallas compared to their Fort Worth counterparts, who seem more invested in their communities.
“I don’t know them,” he admits, highlighting a disconnect between the old guard of business leaders and the new billionaire elite.
Meyerson implies a sense of regret about not achieving billionaire status himself, contemplating the potential impact he could have had on the community with greater financial resources. Despite his wealth, gained through strategic investments rather than a billionaire’s fortune, he finds himself increasingly distanced from the rapid changes around him.
Diagnosed with prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, Meyerson is adjusting to life’s limitations. The once vigorous football player now relies on a walker, a situation that stands in stark contrast to his previously robust self.
Born in 1938, in Fort Worth, Meyerson’s upbringing shaped his worldview. His father, an insurance salesman, famously held a disdain for Dallas, perceiving it as ostentatious and arrogant.
As a child, he was an independent spirit, showing early signs of musical talent influenced by his mother, a pianist. However, the tragic loss of his younger brother, Sandy, profoundly affected him, skewing his life’s trajectory.
In his youth, Meyerson excelled academically, particularly in math, but it was not until high school that he discovered his social standing, breaking onto the football scene and later becoming his class president. Following the completion of his studies in economics and philosophy at the University of Texas at Austin, he served as an officer in the Army, specializing in what would soon be called computing.
Meyerson’s professional journey began at Bell Helicopter, where his adeptness in manufacturing drew the attention of EDS’s founders. Ross Perot had envisioned a business model to help companies effectively utilize their computers.
Meyerson’s arrival at EDS during its formative years catalyzed its impressive growth from a $200 million consulting firm to a $4.7 billion enterprise. His innovative business model for outsourcing was a significant milestone, leading to his rapid ascension within the organization as Perot promoted him to president.
Amidst this growth, Meyerson also served as CEO for Perot’s acquisitions, including the Wall Street brokerage, duPont Glore Forgan. In the mid-’80s, with the acquisition of EDS by General Motors, Meyerson resumed a critical role, overseeing technological developments for the largest employer in the country at the time.
Meyerson became a sought-after mentor, helping burgeoning entrepreneurs find their footing. One such individual was Michael Dell, who sought Meyerson’s guidance as his computer company was in its infancy. Their arrangement led to a mutually beneficial partnership that would eventually support important philanthropic initiatives in Dallas.
Another notable relationship was with Mark Cuban, whom Meyerson initially dismissed upon hearing about their ambitious idea for online basketball broadcasts. However, he ended up making a strategic investment in Broadcast.com, which would later dramatically pay off when it sold to Yahoo! for $5.7 billion.
Meyerson’s financial success burgeoned during the dot-com boom, yet he voiced concerns over the seismic shifts shaking the landscape of wealth accumulation, emphasizing the moral implications of this newfound wealth among the elite.
Involvement in the establishing of the Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas marked a significant milestone in his philanthropic journey. His strong support for the project ensured its realization despite numerous challenges over the years, and the honor of his name on the building brings a sense of personal pride.
Meyerson’s kindness is legendary; he has a reputation for helping others, often anonymously. A notable instance involved sending an unexpected check to a struggling journalist after reading about their misfortune, a testament to his character.
Meyerson established 2M Collective Inc. and the Morton H. Meyerson Family Foundation, where he focuses on philanthropic projects aimed primarily at education and community improvement through programs like the Hilleman Scholars Program.
In reflecting on his legacy, he prioritizes family above his substantial professional accomplishments. This personal focus resonates deeply, especially given the loss of his son, David, at a young age.
Meyerson’s commitment to tzedakah, a Jewish principle centered on justice and charity, shapes his worldview. He expresses confusion over the mentality of many contemporary billionaires, feeling many do not embrace the idea that wealth must benefit the wider community.
His admiration for the early Texas Instruments founders showcases a contrasting philosophy, highlighting a richer sense of corporate responsibility and community integration.
Despite questions regarding the future of Dallas’ economic and social fabric, Meyerson’s thoughts reveal hope for the city. Even as he confronts his health challenges, his mind remains sharp, further deepening wisdom and insight shaped by decades of experience.
Now, in hospice care, surrounded by loved ones, Meyerson’s legacy continues to inspire dialogue about wealth, responsibility, and community engagement as Dallas prepares to navigate the complexities of its rapidly changing landscape.
image source from：https://www.dallasnews.com/arts-entertainment/2025/06/02/morton-meyerson-stares-down-the-end-of-his-life-and-the-modern-dallas-he-helped-build/
