Leadership Houston Overview
History
Leadership Houston was formed in 1982 with the goal of bringing together leaders from different communities to increase dialogue, and foster collaboration on projects that would improve the quality of life for all Houstonians. The founders’ vision was to expose these leaders to civic issues that they may be unaware of and inspire them to expand their involvement within the community.
Leadership Houston Founders
In 1981, a Steering Committee of Houston Chamber of Commerce volunteers, now the Greater Houston Partnership, and one long-time chamber executive conceived and designed the first Leadership Houston training and education program. These were our Founders:
Wayne Bryant
Hughes Tool Company, Chairman
Carl King
Cameron Iron Works, Vice Chairman
Joyce Carlen
Texas Agriculture Extension Service
Dr. June Holly
The Houston Center for the Humanities and Public Policy
Howard Holsenbeck
Holsenbeck Realty
Charles Lansden
Houston Chamber of Commerce
Warren Marquard
Lockwood, Andrews & Newman
Roger McKillip
Browning Ferris Industries
William O'Donnell
Suburban Homes Realty
Frank Petty
Shell Oil Company
John Reigle
Boyden Associates
Vernus Swisher
Foley's Greenspoint
Jack S. Blanton, Sr., Spurlock Oil Company, served as the Executive Liaison between the Steering Committee and the Houston Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
Leadership Houston is tax exempt under section 50 of the Internal Revenue Code. It is eligible to receive contributions deductible as charitable donations for federal income tax purposes.