Thankful for this Community: A Message from the Chamber

As we enter this season of gratitude, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary community we are blessed to be part of. Galveston’s history surrounds us—shaping who we are, reminding us of the strength, resilience, and courage that built this island. My experience with the Chamber has deepened my appreciation for the people whose leadership and vision still guides us today.

This year, as we celebrate another remarkable milestone of 180 years, we’re also grateful to our founding members the Port of Galveston at 200 years, the Galveston-Texas City Pilots at 180 years and The Daily News at 183 years. These anniversaries remind us that innovation, hard work, and perseverance have always fueled our progress.

Serving as President & CEO of this 5-Star Accredited Chamber for 22 years has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I’m deeply grateful for the unwavering love and support of my family—Bob and Caroline—who walk every step of this journey with me. I’m equally grateful for our Chamber team, whose dedication to our mission inspires me every day.

I’m thankful for our small businesses—the heartbeat of our economy—whose grit, creativity, and determination keep our community vibrant. I’m proud of our strong partnerships with educational institutions like UTMB Health, Texas A&M University at Galveston, Galveston College, College of the Mainland, and our regional school districts. Together, we are shaping the next generation through initiatives like Leadership Galveston County Institute and our Maritime Career Pathways program, opening doors to meaningful career opportunities.

I am grateful for our legislators and elected officials who champion our region, and for the volunteers—our Board, committees, Navigators, and countless supporters—whose passion makes events like the Women’s Conference, Lemonade Day Galveston County, our golf tournament and clay shoot, and the upcoming 181^st Annual Meeting and Galveston Island Country Music Fest possible.

I am also deeply grateful for the strength and dedication of our healthcare providers. Institutions and countless local clinics and hospitals throughout our region who work tirelessly to keep our community healthy and safe. Their commitment, especially during times of challenge—underscores the vital role healthcare plays in sustaining our region’s well-being and economic vitality.

I’m also profoundly moved by the work of our nonprofit partners—from celebrating the 50th anniversary of Gulf Coast Big Brothers Big Sisters to witnessing the incredible expansion of the Christina Sullivan Foundation and the daily compassion of St. Vincent’s House and so many others.

Finally, I invite you to join us for the 45th Annual ABC13 “Share Your Holidays” Food Drive on Tuesday, December 2 at Ball High School. Your generosity will directly support families right here in Galveston County.

My prayer continues to be that no one in our region has to go to bed hungry.

Thank you, Galveston County, for your trust, your partnership, and your heart. Together, we make this an extraordinary place to live, work, and thrive.