Petroplex News

Born on July 27, 1946, in Houston, Texas, Donald Louis Evans became the 34th U.S. Secretary of Commerce, appointed by friend George W. Bush. Sworn in on January 20, 2001, he later announced his resignation on November 9, 2004. After, he took the role of Non-Executive Chairman of TXU Energy. Evans, an engineering graduate from the University of Texas, shifted to Midland in 1975. Working on an oil rig for Tom Brown Inc., he became CEO ten years later. His political journey began in 1978, aiding Bush's campaigns. Evans served as campaign chairman and later as Commerce Secretary, contributing to Native Vision and the Scleroderma Research Foundation. In 2001, he faced Senate confirmation, becoming one of seven Cabinet members confirmed on Bush's first day. Notably, he was the designated survivor during Bush's 2004 State of the Union. Post-government, he was poised for Treasury Secretary but served as CEO of the Financial Services Forum. Married to Penelope Evans, he remains active, chairing the George W. Bush Foundation. With a grandson, Mitchell Moon, and granddaughters, Makenzie and Emily Moon, Evans's journey intertwines Midland roots with national service.