Can you believe we’re already nearing the last quarter of 2025? This is always a good time to reflect on what’s worked and how we can continue to grow. At the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce, we know our success comes from the support of our board, committees, and, most importantly, our members.
We work to create opportunities for members to grow their businesses through signature events like the Galveston Women’s Conference and monthly gatherings such as Good Morning Galveston, Good Morning Mainland, and our mixers. This year’s Women’s Conference inspired attendees with keynote speakers Paralympians Amy Purdy and Bethany Zummo, as well as a panel of accomplished leaders. We also celebrated our 2025 Ann McLeod Moody Women of the Year, Mary Ellen Doyle Legacy Woman of the Year and two Non-Profit Highlights.
Supporting small businesses remains a priority. Our vendor market, presented by Memorial Hermann, continues to shine, and we’re excited to announce that next year, the Women’s Conference will expand to two days, Sept. 11 and Sept. 12, 2026. This second day will focus on health and wellness and include a general admission ticket for speakers and the market.
Next, our popular Speed Networking Event is on Oct. 7. This year also marked the launch of our Lunch & Learn Series with presenting partner Texas First Bank. The final session will take place Nov. 4. Both are open to members and prospective members.
Another major milestone is the relaunch of Leadership Galveston and Sail to Success, now combined into the Leadership Galveston County Institute. This eleven-month program blends the legacy of Galveston County’s premier leadership course with innovative professional development (formerly part of Sail to Success). It is designed for both seasoned professionals and emerging leaders.
The class will either venture out to tour the region, hear from leaders and get behind-the-scenes access or they’ll stay in a classroom environment and work together to develop their leadership skills from within. This year’s class will also take a day trip to Austin to learn about civic leadership hosted by the Texas Association of Business. The first event for the class is a November mixer. Monthly classes begin in January. Registration is now open.
And speaking of Austin, mark your calendar for the Biennial Legislative Luncheon on Oct. 16, at The San Luis Resort. We are honored to welcome Senator Mayes Middleton, Representative Dr. Greg Bonnen, and Representative Terri Leo-Wilson, who will share their perspectives on recent legislative developments and how they impact our businesses and region. Texas continues to rank as the nation’s top state for business, and this event offers members a front-row seat to the policies shaping our future—from insurance reform and small business initiatives to the growth of our port economy.
As Texas’ oldest chamber of commerce, we are proud to serve as a voice and resource for the Galveston County business community. If you are looking to reconnect, join a committee, or expand your professional network, we encourage you to get involved today.
