California Global Hydrogen Energy Summit
2025-06-30 00:00 - 2025-07-01 23:59 UTC
Center for Houston’s is pleased to announce we are a supporting partner of the California Global Hydrogen Energy Summit.
The summit, produced by the Green Hydrogen Coalition (GHC) and co-hosted by the California Energy Commission (CEC), Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES), California Air Resources Board (CARB), and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWK), is an interactive in-person event where global thought leaders, industry stakeholders, and policymakers convene to explore the role of renewable hydrogen in accelerating our energy transition.
We invite you to join us at the event, which feature a distinguished lineup of global thought leaders from Germany, Denmark and Japan—including Dr. Falk Bömeke, Head of International Collaboration for Climate and Energy, German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy; Birte Sönnichsen, Hydrogen Market Design Department Head, German Association of Energy and Water Industries; Henrik Stiesdal, Founder of Stiesdal; and Sean (Kagiyama) Miki, Program Manager for Energy & Environment, New Energy & Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)—this event is not to be missed. The Center’s Brett Perlman will also join as a panelist and moderator.

Spotlight on opening keynotes:

Why Hydrogen, Why Now?
· A Global Perspective Presenter: Henrik Stiesdal, Founder of Stiesdal and pioneer in the modern wind energy industry, including floating wind turbines
· A National Perspective Presenter (via pre-recorded video): U.S. Representative Mike Levin (49th District), Member of the House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development
· A State Perspective Presenter: Assemblymember Chris Rogers – State and Asm District 2 Perspective
· A Local Perspective Presenter: Sacramento Mayor Pro Tem Eric Guerra

Register now to meet the following confirmed speakers and market-making thought leaders:
· Liane Randolph, Chair, California Air Resources Board
· Siva Gunda, Vice Chair, California Energy Commission
· Andrew McAllister, Commissioner, California Energy Commission
· Noemi Gallardo, Commissioner, California Energy Commission

· Dr. Falk Bömeke, Head of International Collaboration for Climate and Energy, German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy

· Angelina Galiteva, CEO, Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems

· Mike Levin, US Representative, 49th District (participating via pre-recorded video)

· Tyson Eckerle, Senior Advisor for Clean Infrastructure and Mobility, California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development

· Chris Rogers, Assemblymember, California’s 2nd Assembly District

· Eric Guerra, Mayor Pro Tem Sacramento, Sacramento City Council District 6​

· Brett Perlman, Managing Director, Center for Houston’s Future
· Chris Green, CEO, Pacific Northwest H2
· Jason Caudle, CEO, First Public Hydrogen
· Jason Rondou, Assistant General Manager, Power Planning and Operations, LADWP
· Jakob Krummenacher, Vice President of Clean Energy, LSB Industries
· Jeffrey Benoit, Vice President of Clean Energy Solutions, PSM
· Jim Gillis, President Pacific Region, IMC Logistics
· Mario Cordero, CEO, Port of Long Beach
· Matthew McMonagle, CEO & Founder, Novo Hydrogen
· Mike Petouhoff, Associate Principal – Americas Hydrogen & Sustainable Fuels Leader, ARUP
· Bill Elrick, Executive Director, Hydrogen Fuel Cell Partnership

California and Germany’s commitment to a clean energy future and establishing a scaled, clean hydrogen marketplace continues to set the standard for global collaboration and sustainability. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with thought leaders and industry pioneers shaping the hydrogen landscape.

🎉Sponsors include: ARUP, PSM, Port of Long Beach, Element Resources, and First Public Hydrogen Authority.
🔗 Learn more about the event and view the full program: https://www.ghcoalition.org/california-global-hydrogen-energy-transition-summit-2025
🎟️ Register here: https://whova.com/portal/registration/NWyCWAbOrixElAHbwV3r/
🤝 Become a Sponsor: https://share.hsforms.com/1tyfd_SmoRtOiYVtDP_sA4w32bvq
📩For questions or assistance, contact Vicky Tran, GHC Marketing & Operations Specialist, at vtran@ghcoaltion.org

Summer Salon
2025-07-29 07:30 - 09:00 UTC
Summer Salon presented by bp:
Digital Technology and AI: Challenges and Opportunities for Driving Energy innovation
Our annual Summer Salon breakfast programming will feature a timely conversation about the intersection of digital technology, including artificial intelligence, and energy innovation. Please join us for a casual breakfast discussion, “Digital Technology and AI: Challenges and Opportunities for Driving Energy Innovation.”
The program will include a panel discussion featuring:
Shobhana Mani, VP Innovation and Digital Science at bp
Dr. Debalina Sengupta, Assistant Vice President – Energy Transition Institute at the University of Houston
Matthew McDermott, founder and CEO of Newfound Materials
Tirthak Patel, Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Rice University and Director of the Positive Technology Lab
As always, our Summer Salons include opportunities for audience Q&A.
When: Tuesday, July 29th, 7:30-9:00 AM
Where: Junior League of Houston
Cost: $25
Register here

The energy industry is undergoing a digital transformation, with artificial intelligence and advanced technologies creating new possibilities and opportunities for innovation while presenting unique challenges. Our panelists will explore critical questions such as: How do we marry the digital to the physical? How do use AI responsibly in energy operations? How can digital innovation improve worker safety? What are the opportunities and obstacles?
You’ll hear from leaders and experts at the forefront of integrating digital technologies with traditional energy operations and have a chance to ask questions about the future of AI-driven energy innovation.
This conversation is designed to be accessible to all Houstonians interested in the future of energy and technology.

Mitsubishi Presents: Race to the Future Party
2025-08-02 09:00 - 18:00 UTC
Start your engines and get ready for a day full of wheely big fun! Join the Center for Houston’s Future and the Children’s Museum of Houston at the Race to the Future Party – Presented by Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas). A day at the museum where kids become inventors, artists, and explorers as they dive into a world where cars zoom with clean energy and creativity rules the road. From balloon-powered racers to colorful chalk-covered art cars, there’s something exciting around every turn. Design your dream ride, explore how hydrogen makes cars go vroom, and join in a mini car parade made just for little drivers. It’s a hands-on, high-energy celebration that puts kids in the driver’s seat of a cleaner, brighter future!

Reserve tickets here.

Business/Civic Leadership Forum Welcome Reception
2025-08-26 17:30 - 19:30 UTC
For Leadership Alumni Only
Monday, August 26, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Partnership Tower, 9th Floor

Join Leadership Forum alumni as we welcome the incoming Fall 2025 cohort to Houston’s premier civic leadership program. This networking reception provides an opportunity for new participants to connect with program graduates, learn from their experiences, and begin building the relationships that will support their leadership journey.
Light refreshments will be served.
Register Here

Hydrogen Americas Summit & Exhibition 2025
2025-09-03 00:00 - 2025-09-04 23:59 UTC
Center for Houston’s Future is proud to join as a supporting organization that brings together industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and technology providers to advance clean energy solutions across the Americas.
The Hydrogen Americas 2025 Summit & Exhibition is the premier forum uniting the region’s energy community to explore hydrogen’s role within the Americas’ evolving energy landscape. Under the theme “Defining Hydrogen and Energy Solutions for America’s Energy Future,” this edition will examine the Americas’ changing energy mix and how hydrogen, CCS and renewables must work in concert with nuclear, geothermal, gas, & LNG to achieve a secure, reliable and sustainable energy system. Featuring a strategic high-level summit, the highly attended Tech Stage, and a world-class exhibition, the event brings together policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and technology providers to forge critical partnerships and fast-track the next phase of project development across the Americas.
Register here.

Leaders for Houston’s Future: Reflections on Leadership with Ric Campo
2025-09-30 07:30 - 09:00 UTC
We invite you to join us for Leaders for Houston’s Future: Reflections on leadership with Ric Campo, an intimate breakfast conversation with one of Houston’s most influential business and civic leader.
Ric Campo, Chairman and CEO of Camden Property Trust and Chairman of the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority, will share insights from his remarkable 40-year journey of building both billion-dollar enterprises and stronger communities.
Our very own David Gow, CEO & President of the Center for Houston’s Future, will be in conversation with Campo, ensuring a thoughtful dialogue that dives deep into the leadership lessons that matter most to Houston’s future.
The event, which runs from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Tuesday, September 30th, at The Junior League of Houston, features Ric in conversation reflecting on his 40-year journey of entrepreneurial vision and civic dedication. This isn’t your typical breakfast speaker event—you’ll experience an unscripted, personal conversation where Ric shares the real challenges, pivotal moments, and strategic thinking behind four decades of leadership.
Ric will draw from his experiences across business and community, as well as his participation in the Center’s Business/Civic Leadership Forum. As part of our 25th anniversary celebration, we’re honoring our “Top 25” Leadership Forum alumni through compelling events that showcase their impact. Ric Campo, one of these exceptional leaders, will reflect on both his journey and Houston’s future.
This exclusive gathering offers attendees an opportunity to engage directly with Ric in a candid, small-group setting and gain behind-the-scenes insights into the decision-making processes that built Camden into a national powerhouse while simultaneously shaping Houston’s civic landscape.
Register Now

Energy Independence Summit
2025-10-21 00:00 - 2025-10-23 23:59 UTC
Center for Houston’s Future is proud to join as a supporting organization for this inaugural summit that brings together leaders from across energy, finance, and policy to explore the future of American energy independence.
The Energy Independence Summit is a premier forum uniting industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and technology providers to advance strategic energy solutions across America. The Summit will explore real-world strategies, market trends, and policy frameworks shaping the future of American energy. This inaugural event will examine America’s evolving energy landscape and how diverse energy sources must work together to achieve a secure, reliable, and sustainable energy system.
Register here to join this critical conversation about America’s energy future.

2025 Dinner and Conversation
2025-11-13 18:00 - 21:00 UTC
Center for Houston’s Future’s signature fall event, Dinner and Conversation, featured an engaging conversation, “Unleashing the Power of Our Brains,” led by Center President & CEO David Gow with three distinguished speakers: Dr. Jochen Reiser, President of UTMB; Prof. Christopher M. Johns-Krull, Interim Executive Vice President for Research at Rice University; and Dr. Jamie McCarthy, Executive Vice President and Chief Physician at Memorial Hermann Health System.
We were honored to present the Eugene H. Vaughan Civic Leadership Award to George A. DeMontrond, III, a Business/Civic Leadership Forum alumnus (Fall 2003) and former Board Chairman, for his outstanding leadership, service and contributions across our region and his instrumental role in ensuring the success of the Center’s mission.
Clare Sullivan Jackson, Founder and CEO of Sullivan Group, and Raye G. White, Executive Vice President of Fayez Sarofim & Co., co-chaired our annual community engagement and thought leadership event.
The evening also celebrated the Center’s 25th anniversary by recognizing the “Top 25” most impactful alumni of the Business/Civic Leadership Forum’s 1400+ graduates, including Ric Campo, Anne Chao, Y. Ping Sun, and Bobby Tudor.

Event Image Gallery

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Click here for sponsorship information.

Have Questions?
For more information, please contact Mary Doughtie, Director of Development, at 713-844-9362 or mdoughtie@futurehouston.org.

Presenting Sponsor
Raye G. White

Legacy Underwriter
The Marek Family

VIP Reception Sponsor

Valet Sponsor

Parting Sweets Sponsor

Video Sponsor

Hors D’Oeuvres Sponsor

Benefactor
Eddie Allen, Anne Chao & Donna Cole
The Greg & Mari Marchbanks Family Foundation

Patron
Ally
Amegy Bank
The Baldwin Group
Bellows Construction
Beth Wolff Realtors
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
Board of Directors of the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation
Camden
CenterPoint Energy
Deloitte
Excargo
HCA
Houston First
Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Mary Bass
Memorial Hermann Health System
Nabors
Nan & Co. Properties
Patti and Richard Everett
Phoebe and Bobby Tudor
Portfolio Reinsurance Co.
Port Houston
Regina Rogers & Y. Ping Sun
Reliant, an NRG Company
RoadVantage
The Vaughan and Cox Families
UTMB Health
Supporters
Amy and Jonathan Homeyer
Billy Burge
Boston Consulting Group
Bush & Ramirez
Catherine Clark Mosbacher
Carla and Cole Dawson Family
Catholic Charities
Cindy and Ignacio Pujol
Clare and Steve Jackson
Cullen Geiselman
David Baldwin
Debra Dunn
Diane and John Chaney
E3 Electric
Eileen and Richard Rau
Elizabeth and Peter Wareing
French- American Cultural Foundation
Ginger and Bob Smith
Heather and Jeff Firestone
The Hobby Family Foundation
Houston Area Urban League
Hunton Andrew Kurth
Jan Bres
Jeanne-Mey Sun
J. Michael Trevino
Jim Ajello
John L. Nau, III
Karen and Roland Garcia
Kathy and Brent Smolick
Kathy and Dick Vermillion
Kathy and Marty Goossen
Kerri and Downey Bridgwater
KPMG
Linda Ewing
Mark Barineau
Mary and John Eads
Melinda and Jeffrey Hildebrand
McKinsey Health Institute
Paula Sutton and Bill Gross
Sissie and Grady Roberts
St. Arnold Brewing Company
Susie Peake
Suzan Deison
Tellepsen Family Fund
Vicki and Bob Harvey
Willie J. Alexander
Host Committee Chair
Linda Ewing
Host Committee
Carol Sawyer

2026 Annual Meeting
2026-01-29 17:30 - 19:30 UTC
Join us at the Center’s 2026 Annual Meeting as CEO David Gow presents the research and conclusions from Vision 2050, shares how Project Metis is taking shape, and unveils our strategic priorities for the year ahead. You’ll hear how we’re leveraging every initiative to drive transformative change across our region—from economic development to civic engagement.
This is your opportunity to see how your partnership is making a tangible impact. Together, we’re not just imagining Houston’s future—we’re actively shaping it through bold collaboration and strategic action.
Thursday, January 29 | 5:30-7:30 PM
Partnership Tower, 701 Avenida de las Americas, Suite 900, Houston, TX 77010
5:30-6:00 PM – Registration & Networking
6:00-7:00 PM – Program
7:00-7:30 PM – Networking Reception
Please register below to attend.

Texas Brain Economy Summit
2026-06-09 10:00 - 2026-06-10 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Texas Medical Center, 1885 Old Spanish Trl, Houston, TX, 77030, United States
The Texas Brain Economy Summit, hosted by the Center for Houston’s Future, convenes leaders from health care, research, business, philanthropy, and public policy to advance the brain economy — the recognition that brain health and brain skills are central to the region’s long-term prosperity.
Held June 9–10, 2026 at the Texas Medical Center in Houston, the two-day summit brings together partners including Rice University, UTMB, Memorial Hermann, MD Anderson, the McKinsey Health Institute, and the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute for keynotes, panels, and working sessions.
Registration and the full agenda are available on the summit website.

2026 Dinner and Conversation
2026-11-19 18:00 - 21:00 UTC
Join the Center for Houston’s Future for our signature fall event, Dinner and Conversation—an evening of civic leadership, community engagement, and thought-provoking dialogue.
We are proud to present the Eugene H. Vaughan Civic Leadership Award to Donna Cole, a distinguished business leader, civic champion, and Spring 2005 alum of the Center’s Business/Civic Leadership Forum. Named in honor of our founder, this award recognizes individuals whose leadership, service, and vision have made a lasting impact on the Houston region.
Donna is the founder of Cole Chemical & Distributing, Inc. and has built a nationally recognized company while dedicating decades of service to Houston through board leadership, international engagement, and philanthropy. Her work advancing economic development, strengthening global partnerships, and mentoring future leaders reflects the values at the heart of the Center’s mission.
Our annual Dinner and Conversation convene leaders from across business, government, and the nonprofit sector to engage in meaningful discussion on the issues shaping Houston’s future.
Additional details, including featured speakers, agenda, and ticket information, will be announced soon.

Sponsorship Opportunities?
For more information, please contact:
Miri Wilkins, Senior Director of Development, mwilkins@futurehouston.org
