Galveston Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 Honorees for 181st Annual Meeting

GALVESTON, TX – Dec 3, 2025 – Founded in 1845, the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce, a Five-Star Accredited Chamber, has been a cornerstone of the local business community for 181 years. From its early beginnings to its current role as a driving force for economic and community development, the Chamber continues to make history.

On Saturday, January 24, 2026, the Chamber will host its 181st Annual Meeting at the Galveston Island Convention Center, 5600 Seawall Blvd. Doors open at 6 PM for an evening dedicated to celebrating Galveston’s legacy and honoring exceptional individuals and organizations that have shaped our community. The night culminates with the kickoff of the Third Annual Galveston Island Country Music Fest, featuring Texas favorites Dos Borrachos – Kevin Fowler and Roger Creager.

Galvestonian of the Year
For decades, the Chamber has recognized individuals who exemplify dedication, integrity, and service to the community. This year, the prestigious 2025 “Nonno” Tony Smecca Galvestonian of the Year Award will be presented to Vic Pierson, Chairman, President & CEO of Moody Bank. Pierson currently serves on the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Board of Directors and was inducted into the Texas Bankers Hall of Fame in 2020.

“Vic Pierson exemplifies what it means to be a true Texas leader — principled, visionary, and deeply committed to the success of others,” said Gina M. Spagnola, President and CEO of the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Christie Mitchell Beachcomber Award
The 2025 Christie Mitchell Beachcomber Award goes to Nick Gaido, president of Gaido’s Inc., which includes the historic Gaido’s Restaurant, Pelican Club, and Nick’s Kitchen & Beach Bar. Created by George P. Mitchell in honor of his brother Christie, this award recognizes individuals, businesses, and nonprofits that promote the Island as passionately as Christie Mitchell did.

Galveston Texas City Pilots Heritage Award
The Galveston Texas City Pilots Heritage Award celebrates maritime institutions with profound and lasting influence. This year’s recipient is the United States Coast Guard, whose Galveston history began in 1878 with a lifeboat station on Pelican Island and roots tracing back to the U.S. Life-Saving Service station established in 1900.

H. Rudy Teichman Maritime Wheel of the Year
Honoring maritime innovation, this award will be presented to Rodger E. Rees, Port Director and CEO of Galveston Wharves. Under his leadership, the port recently opened its fourth cruise terminal and ranks as the fourth busiest in the United States. The award commemorates H. Rudy Teichman, a legend in marine salvage and founder of T&T, now one of the world’s largest international salvage companies.

The Chamber will also recognize outstanding businesses and individuals:

Following the awards, the stage transforms for the Third Annual Galveston Island Country Music Fest: Where the Gulf Meets Country, headlined by Dos Borrachos – Kevin Fowler and Roger Creager.

Open-seating tickets, reserved tables, and limited sponsorships are available now at http://GalvestonCountryMusicFest.com. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of celebration on January 24, 2026, at the Galveston Island Convention Center.

The Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce, a Five-Star Accredited Chamber established in 1845, is the oldest chamber of commerce in Texas. Its mission is to promote and advocate for business and community development. The Chamber is dedicated to strengthening the local economy, fostering leadership, and serving the Galveston community.