As we start the 2024 year, we are excited to introduce a dynamic lineup of five accomplished individuals joining our esteemed Board of Directors:
- Lisa Clark – Sr. Vice President, W Land Development
- Melanie Folkert – Partner/Director of Acquisitions, Rooted Development
- Harry Masterson – Managing Principal, EMBER Real Estate Investment and Development
- Matt Stoops – Planning Director, LJA Engineering
- Brett Walker – President, Parkside Capital
These talented professionals bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, promising to contribute significantly to the strategic vision and growth of our organization.
In addition to the new board members, we are proud to announce the elevation of two distinguished individuals who have made their mark with WHA over the years, to the Executive Committee:
- Zach Hodges – President, Northwest College, Houston Community College
- Jack Miller – Chief Executive Officer, R.G. Miller Engineers | DCCM
Zach Hodges, a veteran member of the WHA Board since 2018, previously chaired the WHA Education and Workforce Committee from 2020-2023. Likewise, Jack Miller, who has been an integral part of WHA’s board starting as an ex-officio member in 2014 as Chair of the Water Resources Committee and elected to the board in 2019. Their continued dedication and leadership exemplify the commitment to excellence that defines the West Houston Association.
As we warmly welcome these new additions, we extend our deepest gratitude to outgoing board members John Moody, Dick Phillips, Carolyn Wolff Dorros, and Rainer Ficken for their years of dedicated service. Their invaluable contributions have played a pivotal role in shaping the success of WHA over the years.
Moreover, the year 2024 introduces some new committee leaders, each poised to guide their respective committees with passion and vision:
- Education and Workforce Committee: Jay Neal (UH) as Chair and Leslie Cook (RBC Capital Markets) as Vice Chair.
- Flood Control and Drainage Committee: Andy Palermo (EHRA) as Chair and Alan Black (Quiddity) as Vice Chair.
- Membership Committee: Todd Burrer (Inframark) as Chair and Noe Escobar (LJA) as Vice Chair.
- Water Resources Committee: Melinda Salazar (BGE) as Chair and Taylor Reed (Vogler & Spencer) as Vice Chair.
We also welcome back several dedicated leaders of committees for 2024:
- Government Affairs: Howard Cohen (SPH) as Chair and Paul Lock (CenterPoint) as Vice Chair.
- Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Committee: Christina Cole (SPH) as Chair and Tricia Brasseaux (Howard Hughes) as Vice Chair.
- Quality Planned Development: Brian Gates (Hillwood) as Chair and Matt Stoops (LJA Engineering) as Vice Chair.
- Regional Mobility: Jim Webb (The Goodman Corporation) as Chair and William Papadopoulos (Delta Troy Interests) as Vice Chair.
- Sustainable Infrastructure: Natalie Chaney (RPS Group) as Chair and Harry Thompson (ABHR) as Vice Chair.
With this diverse and talented group of leaders, the WHA is poised to embark on a year of innovation, growth, and continued excellence!