This month’s Supporter Spotlight shines on someone who’s been part of the Dr Pepper Museum family for nearly two decades, Jim Alexander. After retiring in 2006, Jim was personally invited to join the board by Dr Pepper Museum’s co-founder and former President, Wilton Lanning. Over the years, he’s watched the Museum grow in exciting ways and continues to support its mission to preserve the story of Dr Pepper and its deep history in Waco.  

Q1: What first inspired you to get involved with the Dr Pepper Museum as a supporter and board member? 

Jim: Wilton Lanning asked me to join the board shortly after I retired in 2006. Initially I elected to decline Wilton’s requests, but he was very persistent, as you well know, and I finally agreed to serve. 

Q2: As Board Chairman in 2018, what’s one moment or accomplishment that stands out to you? 

Jim: As chairman of the board in 2018 I was fortunate to be involved directly in the process of hiring Chris Dyer as the new President/CEO of the Dr Pepper Museum that year. Without question, this decision was the most important one made during my tenure. 

Q3: In your view, what makes the Dr Pepper Museum such a valuable part of the Waco community? 

Jim: The good fortune of Waco, Texas being the location of the individuals that first formulated what became known as Dr Pepper is extremely important in this community’s history. The success of the brand over the years has greatly enhanced and will continue to elevate the story of this soft drink’s origin. 

Q4: Can you share a favorite memory or experience you’ve had at the Museum? 

Jim: Observing firsthand the many improvements to the Museum since 2018 has been extremely gratifying. This has been my best continuing experience while serving on the board. 

Q5: Why do you believe it’s important to preserve and share the history of Dr Pepper and the soft drink industry? 

Jim: Dr Pepper has become an iconic soft drink for consumers worldwide as a result of the exceptional individuals that followed the founders. Undeniably, this history should be preserved to honor those that made Dr Pepper what it is today. 

Q6: What would you say to someone who’s considering supporting the Museum for the first time? 

Jim: One should support the Museum by volunteering and donating to it so that it will remain an important part of Dr Pepper’s history as well as the history of Waco, Texas. 

If Jim’s story has inspired you, we invite you to learn the different ways that you can contribute to the Dr Pepper Museum’s mission and future today!