The Houston mayor’s Hispanic advisory board (MHAB) hosted its annual holiday reception Dec. 19 at Rice University’s Cohen House, bringing together community leaders, elected officials, board members and partners to celebrate a year of service, leadership and progress for the city’s Hispanic community.
The evening opened with remarks from MHAB leadership, recognizing its accomplishments over the past year with an emphasis on the ongoing strong relationship with the mayor.
“This mayor is a 24/7 mayor,” said Roland Garcia, co-chair for the board. “He works hard for this city. He works hard for our community. He’s been there for us, and we’re going to continue to be there for him.
“He’s done more in his first year than most mayors do in an entire term, including exceptional services on law enforcement, public safety and infrastructure.”
Numerous elected and appointed officials were recognized throughout the program, highlighting the growing representation and leadership of Hispanics across city and county institutions.
Mayor John Whitmire delivered keynote remarks, reflecting on Houston’s growth, the evolving role of the Hispanic community in shaping the city’s future and the importance of collaboration across local, state and federal levels. He highlighted recent investments in public safety, infrastructure, parks, transportation and preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, emphasizing that Houston’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths — and responsibilities.
“Everyone here knows the future of Houston is represented here tonight,” Whitmire said. “It’s an exciting time to be a Houstonian. I’m very honored to be your mayor, and I know how I got there. It was the people in this room and the people that you represent.”
A highlight of the evening was a special presentation honoring Garcia for his extraordinary service as co-chair of the MHAB since 2010. Serving under three mayoral administrations, Garcia was recognized for his steady leadership, deep commitment to public service and lasting impact on the MHAB and the broader community. The mayor formally presented him with an award of appreciation as Garcia transitions from his role as co-chair.
The reception concluded with a group photo of the mayor, MHAB members and elected and appointed officials, underscoring the spirit of unity and shared purpose that defined the evening. The event served not only as a holiday celebration but also a reaffirmation of the council’s ongoing mission to advocate for opportunity, representation and progress for Houston’s Hispanic community.
Among the guests were Counsel General of Spain Jesus Sanz, U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-Houston), State Sen. Carol Alvarado (D-Houston), State Rep. Armando Walle (D-Houston), Houston Police Chief J. Noe Diaz, MHAB co-chair Lenora Sorola-Pohlman and City Councilmembers Mario Castillo and Willie Davis.
The evening ended with a festive serenade from Rice’s Mariachi Luna Llena.
“The holiday reception showcased the tremendous leadership we have in Houston,” said David Medina, director of multicultural community relations and a member of the MHAB. “It was truly moving to see so many community leaders come together to celebrate the holidays and those who move the city forward.”