Chamber News

Two distinguished Latina Leadership Institute alumnae return to lead the program’s next cohort.

Leadership San Antonio Class 51 will deploy seven teams to seven nonprofits October 7, tackling projects ranging from a wheelchair ramp build to youth homelessness outreach and neighborhood revitalization SAN ANTONIO, TX (September 25, 2026) For one San Antonio resident, October 7 will mean something as simple, and significant, as being able to safely enter and leave their home with greater independence. For dozens of other San Antonians, the day will bring refreshed community spaces, supplies for young people experiencing homelessness, support for local food pantries, neighborhood beautification and hands-on investment from some of the city’s emerging civic and business leaders. On Wednesday, October 7, the 70-member Leadership San Antonio Class 51 will fan out across San Antonio for Legacy Volunteer Day, deploying seven teams to seven nonprofit organizations for a single day of hands-on community service. The projects will take class members from downtown San Antonio to community organizations across the city, with work ranging from constructing a wheelchair ramp for a homebound resident to packing street outreach kits for unhoused youth, revitalizing spaces for women and families, supporting a community pantry and engaging students at SAMSAT. Media are invited to cover the morning kickoff or follow Class 51 into the field. Reporters, photographers and news crews may coordinate access to individual project sites, interview class members and nonprofit partners, or capture the full 70-member cohort before teams disperse across San Antonio. “This day is about putting leadership into action,” said Bianca Perez, SAHCC Director of Programs “Our class has spent the year learning about the challenges, opportunities and people shaping San Antonio. Legacy Volunteer Day gives us the opportunity to step directly into that work and serve alongside the organizations strengthening our community every day.” Throughout the program year, Class 51 is divided into seven Class Day teams, each responsible for developing a program focused on a key issue shaping San Antonio and the surrounding region. For Legacy Volunteer Day, each team selected a nonprofit partner and developed its own service project, turning the lessons of the Leadership San Antonio program into direct community action. Class members will also be joined by friends, family and Leadership San Antonio alumni, making Legacy Volunteer Day one of the program’s largest collective service efforts of the year. MEDIA COVERAGE OPPORTUNITIES Wednesday, October 7, 2026 7:20 a.m. — Check-In Woodlawn Park Pavilion 7:30 a.m. — Breakfast 8:15 a.m. — Opening Program The morning program will include remarks from: Leadership San Antonio Class 51 Tri-Chairs Ashley Harris of PNC Bank, Michelle Martinez of Birdieoso Strategies & The Local SATX, and Laura Vaccaro of the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Jeff Webster and Board Chair Kevin C. Dinnin San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Luis A. Rodriguez and Board Chair Anamaria Suescun-Fast Following the opening program, all seven teams will depart for project sites throughout San Antonio. Media interested in covering a specific project, coordinating interviews or joining a team at its service site should contact Crystal Cantu at crystalc@sahcc.org. Seven Teams. Seven Nonprofits. Class Day 1: The New Blueprint: Mapping an Equitable Future for All Catholic Charities Volunteers will tend the community garden, organize costumes for the center’s Fall Festival and support pantry operations by reorganizing supplies and preparing sandwiches for transitional clients. Class Day 2: The People’s Mic: Powering Civic Participation Centro San Antonio Volunteers will conduct graffiti abatement and beautification projects aimed at keeping downtown San Antonio clean, vibrant and welcoming. Class Day 3: Authentically San Antonio: Where Every Story Belongs La Zona Volunteers will spend the day improving and refreshing the La Zona community through hands-on beautification projects. Class Day 4: Born to Succeed: Building SA’s Future from Day 1 YWCA San Antonio Volunteers will revitalize a community space used by program participants, clearing and reorganizing the gym to create a more welcoming, functional and engaging environment for the women, children and families served by the YWCA. Class Day 5: The Overload Generation: Resetting for Resilience Thrive Youth Center Volunteers will assemble street outreach kits containing essential supplies for young people experiencing homelessness through Thrive’s Volunteer Street Outreach program. Class Day 6: Mission Possible SAMSAT at Port San Antonio’s Tech Port Volunteers will support the museum’s Area 21 by cleaning, tagging and organizing artifacts, scanning donor forms and engaging with visiting students. Class Day 7: A Journey Across the Super-Region Texas Ramp Project Volunteers will construct a wheelchair ramp for a homebound, low-income San Antonio resident with medical needs. Depending on the home, Texas Ramp Project ramps may range from 10 to 70 feet in length and take approximately four hours to construct. But the impact can last far beyond the build itself. For the resident receiving the ramp, the finished project will provide safer, more independent access to their home and community, turning one day of volunteer service into a tangible change in daily life. Leadership Beyond the Boardroom Legacy Volunteer Day reflects a central goal of Leadership San Antonio: preparing leaders who not only understand the region’s challenges and opportunities, but who also build relationships with the people and organizations addressing those challenges firsthand. By the end of October 7, Class 51 will have worked across seven different nonprofit sites throughout San Antonio, leaving behind completed projects and strengthened community spaces while gaining a deeper understanding of the city they are preparing to lead. About Leadership San Antonio Leadership San Antonio is a premier leadership program where participants gain insight from present and future decision-makers across the public and private sectors. Program graduates are better prepared to lead San Antonio into the future through a broader understanding of the region, its people and the issues shaping its growth. More information is available at LeadershipSA.org. MEDIA CONTACT Crystal Cantu crystalc@sahcc.org (210) 649-7926

The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce have announced the Co-Chairs of the 2027 Leadership San Antonio (LSA) Program: Luisa Casso, Chief Advisor, Casso Consulting Solutions, LLC and Richard Delgado Jr., Senior Community Investor, The Boeing Company. Created in 1975 by The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, LSA is considered the premier program for leaders in the Bexar County and surrounding areas. The program, one of the first of its kind in Texas, has graduated more than 2,000 participants. LSA educates these leaders in the vital areas affecting San Antonio, as well as encourages Chamber Business involvement and Community advocacy. Appointed by the Board Chairs of each Chamber, the LSA Chairs provide leadership and guidance to the LSA Steering Committee, which consists of a small and focused team of LSA alumni. Collectively, they recruit the members for LSA Class 51, guiding an impactful experience of the inner workings of San Antonio and the surrounding region. "Leadership San Antonio has spent five decades developing leaders who understand that true leadership is not simply about holding a position-it is about accepting the responsibility to serve, connect and create meaningful change," says JD Salinas, 2026 Greater San Antonio Chamber Board Chair and Vice President of AT&T External and Legislative Affairs. "As we welcome Class 51, I am excited about the talent, diverse perspectives and energy this next generation of leaders brings to San Antonio. The legacy of LSA is strong, but its greatest opportunity is always what comes next. I look forward to working alongside this class as they build relationships, challenge conventional thinking and help shape a stronger, more prosperous future for our city." In 1992, The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber joined The Greater Chamber to co-host the program, enhancing the involvement and diversity of future classes. "San Antonio's future is strengthened when we bring together leaders from different backgrounds, industries, and walks of life to learn from one another and better understand the community we all serve," says Lisa Navarro-Gonzalez, 2027 San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board Chair. "LSA51 continues a proud partnership between the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber and the Greater San Antonio Chamber to educate emerging and established leaders on the issues shaping our city while encouraging meaningful civic engagement. As the SAHCC 2027 Chair-Elect, I'm proud to help carry this legacy forward and excited to welcome a new class whose experiences and perspectives will not only enrich the program, but strengthen the leadership that makes San Antonio such a special place." Each year, there is a laser focus on the city's growing industries, while highlighting the important role the Chambers play in the San Antonio business, political and civic communities. The goal is to reinforce Chamber involvement and in the community, staying connected, and giving back. Since 1975, LSA has been recognized as the premier leadership development program in the Alamo Region, providing participants a unique experience to expand their service to San Antonio. The jointly sponsored program identifies individuals who have demonstrated leadership in their chosen profession and are active in community organizations that support San Antonio's growth and development. "Serving as Chair of Leadership San Antonio Class 51 is both an honor and a responsibility. Leadership is about bringing people together, listening to different perspectives and turning connection into meaningful action," states Delgado. "LSA Class 51 has an incredible opportunity to honor the legacy of Leadership San Antonio as we build relationships, deepen our understanding of San Antonio and explore how we will contribute to the future of our community - while boldly embracing what comes next." "I believe San Antonio's future depends on leaders willing to move forward with conviction, even when the path is not fully clear," says Casso, LSA Class 39 graduate and Steering Committee Mentor of LSA 42 and 45. "Leadership means telling the truth, making the hard call, and building the trust that lasting change requires. I am honored to bring that belief into this year's Leadership San Antonio class." For individuals interested in applying for LSA 51, CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS 11:59 PM (CT) ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2026. For questions regarding LSA, contact Angela McClendon Johnson, Vice President of Education, Workforce and Leadership at the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, at amcclendonjohnson@sachamber.org. -- About Greater San Antonio Chamber: The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce is the preeminent voice of the San Antonio business community. As the largest business association in the region, the Greater Chamber advocates on behalf of the business community at the local, state, and federal levels; collaborates with educational institutions and organizations to build a stronger workforce for the future; and provides a way for businesses of every size to build their network. About San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is the leading resource, advocate, and access point for Hispanic businesses, Hispanics in business, and the Hispanic market. A strong advocate for Hispanic business and Hispanics in business since 1929, the Hispanic Chamber is the first Hispanic Chamber in the United States to be accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Building on a Decade of Latina Leadership

The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's is proud to share the Member's of the 2026 ABLDP Steering Committee.

Spurs Sports & Entertainment: Catalysts for Opportunity Choosing to vote “Yes” for Proposition A and B is a decision that supports both small businesses and job creation within the San Antonio community. Spurs Sports & Entertainment has consistently demonstrated their commitment to opening doors for local enterprises, fostering economic growth, and providing meaningful opportunities for small businesses. Our own experience serves as living proof of the positive impact the Spurs have on our business landscape. The Beginning of a Successful Partnership In the spring of 1999, our advertising agency was just starting out. The San Antonio Spurs entrusted us with the responsibility of developing an advertising campaign for the upcoming playoffs. With determination and a simple concept built around three powerful words, we introduced the "GO SPURS GO" mantra. The campaign featured television commercials filmed at iconic San Antonio locations, including Alamo Plaza, the Riverwalk, and San Fernando Cathedral, where Father David Garcia joined in chanting the now-famous slogan. A Community United and a Business Transformed It was a perfect storm: the Spurs won their first NBA Championship that year, and "Go Spurs Go" became a lasting rallying cry in San Antonio. For our agency, Creative Civilization, this marked the beginning of a rewarding fourteen-year working relationship with the Spurs, resulting in numerous additional campaigns such as "Team is Everything," "One Team. One Goal.," "I Love My Spurs," "Bring on The World," and more. Empowering Small, Diverse Businesses As a small, Hispanic, and woman-owned advertising agency, our partnership with the Spurs felt like the classic underdog story—winning the championship of the advertising world. More importantly, our collaboration with Spurs Sports & Entertainment opened up further business opportunities over the years. To this day, our work is recognized by clients, who introduce us to their teams and board members as the creators of "Go Spurs Go." Impact on Careers and the Community Over the course of 26 years in business, we have employed dozens of talented professionals, many of whom now hold leadership positions in marketing departments at major corporations across the region. The effects of our partnership with the Spurs have rippled throughout the community, helping to launch and advance the careers of countless individuals. Continuing the Legacy of Growth When the question arises about the value of voting "Yes" for Propositions A and B for our community and small businesses, our story stands as testimony to the Spurs' unwavering dedication to helping San Antonio thrive. The opportunities and support we've received have empowered us to grow, and we remain grateful to the Spurs for their role in our success. We are confident that their continued commitment will result in even more businesses and jobs being created in San Antonio. Conclusion: Vote Yes for Propositions A and B We encourage you to vote “yes” for Proposition A and B. Go Spurs Go!

"The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's continued commitment to this program empowers professionals to step forward with confidence, courage and connection but also ensures a lasting pipeline of impactful future leaders.” said Anamaria Suescun-Fest, SAHCC 2026 Chair Elect

The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce have announced the Chairs of Leadership San Antonio™ (LSA) for 2026, which is the 50th anniversary of the program: Ashley Harris , Vice President of Client and Community Relations Director for PNC Bank – San Antonio; Michelle Martinez ; Founder and Principal of Birdieoso Strategies & co-owner of The Local SATX; and Laura Vaccaro , CEO of the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation .  Created in 1975 by The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, LSA is considered the premier program for leaders in the Bexar County and surrounding areas. The program, one of the first of its kind in Texas, has graduated more than 2,000 participants. LSA educates these leaders in the vital areas affecting San Antonio, as well as encourages Chamber Business involvement and Community advocacy. Appointed by the Board Chairs of each Chamber, the LSA Chairs provide leadership and guidance to the LSA Steering Committee, which consists of a small and focused team of LSA alumni. Collectively, they recruit the members for LSA Class 50, guiding an impactful experience of the inner workings of San Antonio and the surrounding region. “The appointment of a tri-chair leadership for Leadership San Antonio Class 50 is a groundbreaking moment and we are proud to have three dynamic and accomplished women at the helm,” says Kevin Dinnin, 2026 Greater San Antonio Chamber Board Chair and President and CEO of the FirstDay Foundation . “This united leadership model reflects the spirit of collaboration, representation, and service that drives true community impact. This is a defining moment for Leadership San Antonio and our city.” “At its core, this program champions bold, civic-minded leadership - leaders who step up and help shape meaningful solutions,” says Anamaria Suescun-Fast, 2026 San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board Chair and CEO and Owner of talkStrategy. “These three exceptional leaders embody that charge. Their vision and guidance during this milestone LSA year will help propel our city forward.” Each year, there is a laser focus on the city’s growing industries, while highlighting the important role the Chambers play in the San Antonio business, political and civic communities. The goal is to reinforce Chamber involvement and service to the community, staying connected, and giving back. “Being selected to chair LSA 50 is one of the greatest honors of my professional journey,” says Harris, LSA 39 Class Graduate and LSA 43 Steering Committee Mentor. “This program has shaped leaders across generations, and I’m humbled to help lead it during such a historic milestone year. Together, we will honor its legacy while forging bold new paths for San Antonio’s future.” Over the years, LSA has provided participants a unique experience to expand their service to San Antonio. The jointly-sponsored program identifies individuals who have demonstrated leadership in their chosen profession and are active in community organizations that support San Antonio’s growth and development. “Serving as one of the tri-chairs for LSA 50 is a true privilege,” says Vaccaro, LSA 35 Class Graduate and LSA 37 Steering Committee Mentor. “This shared leadership mirrors the power of collaboration in our city — and I’m excited to work alongside two phenomenal women to elevate voices, build connections, and create real community impact.” In 1992, The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber joined The Greater Chamber to co-host the program, enhancing the involvement and diversity of future classes. “It’s an honor to serve as a tri-chair for LSA 50 alongside two dedicated leaders,” says Martinez, LSA Class 37 Graduate and Steering Committee Mentor of LSA 42 and 43. “As women leaders representing the rich diversity of our city, we carry a responsibility to lead with purpose, equity, and vision. This historic year is about celebrating the past and paving the way for leaders and our city’s future.” Former LSA graduates who are members in good standing of either the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce or the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and interested in applying to serve as Steering Committee mentors for LSA Class 50, Click below. DEADLINE TO SUBMIT IS 11:59 PM ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2025 .

The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Happy State Bank, A Division of Centennial Bank, member of the FDIC as our official Ribbon Cutting Sponsor! We are thrilled to partner with a company that shares our commitment to supporting local business growth and community engagement. As our newest partner, Happy State Bank will be featured at all upcoming ribbon cutting celebrations, helping us recognize and celebrate milestones with new and existing members throughout the year. Their generous support allows us to continue creating meaningful and memorable experiences for our business community. About Happy State Bank: Founded in 1908, Happy State Bank (now a division of Centennial Bank as of 2022) has a long-standing tradition of providing personalized banking services with a strong emphasis on community involvement. With locations throughout Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, New York and the great State of Texas, Happy State Bank offers a full suite of financial services and products for individuals, families, and businesses — all delivered with a smile and a focus on customer care with white glove service. Their mission is simple: "Happy employees make for happy customers." Please join us in giving a warm welcome to the Happy State Bank team! We look forward to a bright and successful partnership ahead.