Houston’s Hispanic Power Celebrated in First Public Appearance of 27-Year-Old Woman Who Toppled Ed Emmett: Community Leaders Making Their Voice Heard

“As Hispanics go, so goes Houston.” Those powerful words were met with exuberant applause as Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce CEO Laura Murillo addressed a ballroom brimming with more than 1,500 community leaders.

Perhaps truer words were never spoken as in this gathering at the Hilton Americas-Houston. In the audience of the annual HHCC awards dinner was Harris County Judge-Elect Lina Hidalgo, the 27-year-old who ended Ed Emmett’s 11-year stint in that position. The gala was Hidalgo’s first public appearance following her election.

In her powerful remarks, Murillo continued, “The strength of the Hispanic business community is reflected in the makeup of tonight’s record-breaking attendance. It’s incumbent upon all of us to harness the collective strength of our community to continue to have our economic, social, and political influence felt across the region.

“In the coming year, the chamber will continue to lead on the issues that will create successes for your businesses, your organizations, and our region.”

The evening saluted outstanding business leaders with presentation of six awards. Mayor Sylvester Turner was honored with the Chairman/President & CEO Award. Also honored were Cemex USA’s Ignacio Madridejos as Hispanic Male Executive of the Year; AARP’s Isabel Longoria as Hispanic Female Executive of the Year; Snapper Jack’s Catering, represented by Angelica Noyola, as Hispanic Small Business of the Year; Vanir Construction’s Dorene Dominguez as Hispanic Female Entrepreneur of the Year; and Garcia, Hamilton & Associates’ Gilbert Garcia as Hispanic Male Entrepreneur of the Year.

The evening also recognized the 2018 class of the Greater Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Emerging Leaders Institute.