Dear Members of the East End Chamber,
I have had the pleasure of being a part of the East End Chamber serving on the Board since 2000 and as Board Chair since 2017. Over the years, I have had the joy of connecting with many East End locals and Chamber Members. I have been privileged to participate in the growth of Houston’s East End by working and serving alongside business leaders, community servants and leading educators who care deeply about equipping this community for success. The East End is a diverse community with a rich history and strong industry that is linked to the success of Houston. It is remarkable to work in the East End and experience the sense of community and innovation as the East End climbs the ranks of top Houston areas to live, work and play!
In 2018 we added two new programs “East End Women in Business” and “East End Mean’s Business – Connecting and Growing Business Through Knowledge and Procurement.” These proved to be helpful and beneficial to our members. We invite you to join us for our 2019 programming that will include these two events and others like our Port Appreciation Luncheon, Local Industry Global Economy, Scholarship Golf Tournament and East End Awards Celebration.
Looking Forward
The Chamber’s mission and vision are to connect businesses to promote economic expansion and investment in the East End and be the premier business and community support organization for promoting and sustaining business expansion, investment and economic development in the East End. This is a high calling and I am motivated by the shared commitment of fellow board members and Chamber staff to ensure our focus is intentional, our partnerships are strategic and there is a strong return on investment for our members. We will work tirelessly to engage current members and connect with new partners to form win-win alliances that help us fulfill our mission. Together, we will find new opportunities with partners both in and outside of the east end to grow our membership, strengthen our impact and increase our reach and role in the greater Houston economy.
Lastly, I believe the foundation for economic growth and prosperity is connected to education. For many years, the Chamber’s Education Foundation has invested in the next generation of East End students by collaborating and partnering with renowned educational institutions and East End Businesses to create programs and curriculum that equips students for success. As we equip and provide coveted scholarships and mentors to students, we serve the needs of residents and students in the East End. Together, we are strengthening pipelines between schools, community and industry to prepare East End students for job opportunities that exist right here. Through the great work already being done by the Chamber’s Education Foundation to build a strong, qualified workforce – there is nothing we cannot achieve!
Sincerely,
Todd Stewart, 2007-19 Board Chair
Gulf Winds International
Foundation Board of Directors