2025 LEADERSHIP EXCHANGE Austin, Texas
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I want to be the first to thank you for attending our 2025 Leadership Exchange as we come together to learn from the dynamic city of Austin. This trip is an incredible opportunity and I’m grateful for your role as leaders in your industries as you serve as catalysts for positive change in Hampton Roads. Get ready to be inspired by Austin—often ranked among the best places to live in the U.S. and celebrated worldwide for its innovation, creativity, and culture. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin offers a thriving arts scene, a diverse and growing economy, and a reputation as a hub for technology and entrepreneurship. With a highly educated workforce, a nationally recognized airport offering nonstop flights across the globe plus a strong sense of place rooted in both tradition and innovation, Austin continues to attract development, investment and new talent at one of the fastest rates in the country. Welcome to AUSTIN
During our visit to Austin, we will focus on several key impact areas including:
Workforce & Talent Building a Strong Regional Brand Festivals, Sports, Tourism & Transformation The Austin Mega Region Austin Innovation A Young Professional's Perspective Austin's Urban Future Infrastructure-Transportation, Airport & Housing Affordability
While in Austin, we will have the opportunity to hear directly from city leaders about the many initiatives and developments shaping the future of this innovative region. We’ll also gain valuable insights into Austin’s unique “secret sauce” for growth and success from Mayor Kirk Watson and other influential leaders who have guided the city through rapid transformation. Programming for the 2025 Leadership Exchange is designed to deliver top-tier perspectives on what Austin does best. From its thriving innovation corridor and rapidly expanding medical district to its national reputation as a hub for music, culture, and creative industries, we’ll explore how Austin continues to attract talent, drive tourism, and foster sustainable economic growth. These best practices will offer lessons we can adapt and apply here in Hampton Roads. The Hampton Roads Chamber team is thrilled that you have chosen to invest your time in this experience. We are confident you will return from Austin with new ideas to implement within your organizations as well as with meaningful connections made during the social capital building opportunities provided throughout the trip. Our team is here to support you every step of the way- please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything we can do to enhance your visit.
Bryan K. Stephens President & CEO Hampton Roads Chamber
Trip Agenda
Day 1 | Wednesday, September 24
2:30-5:00 PM
Chamber Registration Opens Located in Room 502 at the JW Marriott Austin (5 floor) th
3:00 PM
Check-in at the JW Marriott Austin *Please meet in the hotel lobby at 5:30PM to take the bus to the museum
6-8:00 PM
Opening Reception at the Bullock Texas State History Museum
JW Marriott Austin
Located in the heart of downtown, the JW Marriott Austin combines luxury and convenience with the city’s largest guest rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, a spa, rooftop pool, and a variety of dining options including Dean’s Italian Steakhouse, Burger Bar, and Edge Rooftop + Bar with stunning Capitol and lake views. Just steps from Austin’s top attractions, the hotel sits on Congress Avenue providing walking access to landmarks, live music venues, popular shops and nightlife.
110 E. 2 Street nd
Bullock Texas State History Museum
The Bullock Texas State History Museum—often called the Bob Bullock Museum is named in honor of Bob Bullock, the 38th Lieutenant Governor of Texas, who championed the creation of a state history museum. Having opened in 2001 and operated by the Texas State Preservation Board, the Bullock Texas State History Museum is the official history museum of the state. Its mission is to interpret the “Story of Texas” through immersive, engaging educational experiences, showcasing artifacts, culture, and innovations.
1800 Congress Avenue
September 24-27
Day 2 | Thursday, September 25
7-8:00 AM
Breakfast Buffet at the JW Marriott Austin Located in Room 503 at the JW Marriott Austin (5 floor) th
8:00 AM
Bus to the Long Center *Please board the bus by 7:55 AM
8:30-9:00 AM
Welcome to Austin by Mayor Kirk Watson
9-10:00 AM
Why Austin? Setting the Stage of the Live Music Capital of the World
Jeremy Martin, President & CEO, Austin Chamber of Commerce Roland Peña, Senior Vice President of Global Investment & Innovation, Opportunity Austin Dane Piper, VP of Destination Services, Visit Austin
10:15-11:30 AM
Rooted in Austin: Built for Business and Fueled by Talent
Yael Lawson, Chief Operating Officer, Workforce Solutions Capital Area Ascension Texas-SNI Apprenticeship Program Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, Chancellor, Austin Community College District
11:30-12:15 PM
Lunch at the Long Center
The Long Center
For Austinites of every background, the Long Center, built in 2008 is the community gathering place that offers the most diverse programming and stunning views of the city, so that together, everyone can experience remarkable live arts and entertainment. Uniquely located facing the city skyline, the Long Center is proud to bring what Austin is to communities near and far every day, on virtual stages and actual ones, through connections and community.
701 W. Riverside Dr.
Trip Agenda
12:15 PM
Bus to the Sunset Room
12:45-1:45 PM
Keep Austin Weird: Building a Strong Regional Brand
Omar Lozano, Director of Music Marketing, Visit Austin Levente McCrary, Chief Operating Officer, ECPR Texas
2-3:00 PM
Destination Austin: Festivals, Sports, Tourism & Transformation
Jordyn Almendarez, Sports Sales Manager, Austin Sports Commission Alex Casolaro, Director of Credential Sales, SXSW Katy Zamesnik, Acting Deputy Director, Austin Convention Center
3:30-4:30 PM
Optional: Narrated Walking Tour by Swift Fit Events
5:30 PM
Bus to Quince Lakehouse * Please board the bus by 5:25 PM
Takeaways
6-8:00 PM
Boots & Bites at Quince Lakehouse
Quince Lakehouse
Quince's menu draws inspiration from the diverse culinary journeys of their chefs and leadership team, who have traveled to some of the world's most vibrant food cities, including New Orleans, Lima, New York City, and Mexico City. As an upscale casual restaurant, Quince offers a lively atmosphere where upbeat, familiar music, attentive service, and breathtaking views blend seamlessly to create what they proudly call the "Quince Experience." Quince Lakehouse earned the title of the "#1 Rooftop Restaurant in the World" in 2020.
3825 Lake Austin Blvd.
September 24-27
Day 3 | Friday, September 26
Breakfast Buffet at the JW Marriott Austin Located in Room 503 at the JW Marriott Austin (5 floor) th
7-8:00 AM
Bus to the University of Texas Alumni Center *Please board the bus by 7:55 AM
8:00 AM
Connecting the Dots: The Power of the Austin Mega Region Greater SATX-Regional Economic Partnership & Opportunity Austin
8:30-9:15 AM
Crane City: A Look at Austin’s Infrastructure Awais Azhar, Executive Director, Housing Works Austin Jason Alexander, Deputy Chief of Airport Affairs, Austin-Bergstrom Airport Ashika Ganguly, Executive Director, Transit Forward Lindsay Wood, Executive Vice President of Design & Construction, Austin Transit Partnership
9:15-10:15 AM
Voices of ATX: A Young Professional Roundtable with Austin Young Chamber
10:30-11:15 AM
Beyond the Boom: Innovation in the Heart of Texas Raymond Kunik, Jr, Chair, Austin Tech Council & Head of Digital at 3M Ronnie Sheth, CEO, SENEN GROUP Linda Ginac, CEO, TalentGuard
11:15-12:15 PM
Lunch at the University of Texas Etter-Harbin Alumni Center
12:15-1:00 PM
University of Texas Alumni Center
The Etter-Harbin Alumni Center is a uniquely Texan venue located in Downtown Austin nestled along the historic Waller Creek and surrounded by 100 year-old oak trees. The center was originally established in 1965 to serve the Texas Exes alumni association and was renovated in 1990 tripling in size and capacity to host large-scale events.
2110 San Jacinto Blvd
Trip Agenda
Bus to Capital Factory
1-1:30 PM
From Runway to Resilience: How the Mueller Development is Rewriting Austin’s Urban Future Jessica Reynolds, Senior Vice President of Communications, Banbury Development
1:30-2:15 PM
Optional Tour: Community First! Housing & Mueller Development
2:45-3:45 PM
The Community First Village is a 400-resident tiny home village and RV park located just outside Austin, Texas city limits that opened in 2015 to house formerly homeless residents. Their mission is to empower communities into a lifestyle of service with the homeless. To provide food and clothing, cultivate community, and promote dignity to our homeless brothers and sisters in need.
Sips & Salsa at Cantina 512 *Please board the bus by 5:40 PM
6-8:00 PM
Takeaways
Capital Factory Capital Factory is a pivotal startup accelerator, venture capital investor, and coworking space based in Austin. Widely regarded as the “center of gravity for entrepreneurs in Texas,” it has fostered deep connections between early-stage startups and investors. According to Pitchbook, it has been the most active early- stage investor in the state since 2010. Capital Factory has now grown its influence beyond Austin, establishing locations or programming in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Washington D.C
701 Brazos Street
Speaker Bios
Welcome to Austin
For three decades, Kirk Watson has been immersed in public policy, spanning local and state government in Texas. He served in the Texas Senate for over 13 years, leading on a wide range of issues and serving as a member and vice-chair of multiple standing and special committees and the Sunset Advisory Commission. His peers elected him President Pro Tempore of the Senate in 2019. Watson was appointed in 1991 by Gov. Ann Richards as Chair of the Texas Air Control Board, the agency charged with addressing air quality issues. He was Vice-Chair of the committee that oversaw creation of the agency now known as the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Mayor Kirk Watson
He was first elected Austin mayor in 1997, where he won praise for bringing different political sides together around transformative environmental and economic development initiatives. In 2012, serving in the Texas Senate, he led the effort to build a new medical school at The University of Texas at Austin.
Why Austin? Setting the Stage of the Live Music Capital of the World
Jeremy Martin serves as President and CEO at the Austin Chamber of Commerce. He has represented Central Texas businesses at all levels of government from the White House Business Council to local community groups with one purpose in mind: helping Austin businesses succeed. Prior to his current role, Jeremy served as Interim Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President at the Chamber.
Jeremy Martin
As Senior Vice President of Government Relations, Jeremy oversaw advocacy efforts at the Chamber focusing on priorities such as economic development policy, transportation, infrastructure, education/workforce development, and regulatory climate. Whether it appeared on the ballot or a city council agenda, he knew how policy items affected Chamber members. Jeremy serves on the Boards of Directors for the Austin Economic Development Corporation, Community Advancement Network, Quality of Life Foundation of Austin, Transportation Advocates of Texas, and Visit Austin. Jeremy earned a Bachelor of Arts in mathematical economic analysis from Rice University and a Master of City Planning with a concentration in community and economic development from the University of Pennsylvania.
Speaker Bios
Why Austin? Setting the Stage of the Live Music Capital of the World
With 15 years at Visit Austin, Dane Piper has played a role in shaping how the city welcomes and supports conventions and meetings. As Vice President of Destination Services, he leads the team responsible for ensuring that Austin’s visitor experience reflects the city’s creative culture while also driving measurable economic impact.
Dane Piper
Dane spent more than a decade in sales before transitioning to convention services, giving him a unique perspective on how tourism not only supports Austin’s economy but also strengthens its identity as the Live Music Capital of the World. His work bridges the needs of meeting planners, local businesses, and community stakeholders to ensure that Austin’s rapid growth enhances rather than diminishes its authentic character.
Roland Peña is the SVP of Global Investment and Innovation with Opportunity Austin – a five-county regional economic development initiative. Since May 2018, Roland Peña has been at the forefront of economic development in Austin, Texas, serving in pivotal roles at Opportunity Austin. His leadership as SVP of Global Investment and Innovation and previously as SVP of Global Technology & Innovation and VP of Economic Development, plus a 34-year track record in economic development exemplifies his unparalleled commitment to fostering
Roland Peña Roland's visionary approach to enhancing the Austin Region's Global Investment and Innovation ecosystem, spearheading international relations initiatives, and fostering startup growth has positioned Austin as a global hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. His tenure has been characterized by a robust commitment to strategic adaptation, goal setting, and sector-specific leadership, significantly advancing the business landscape and technological infrastructure of the Austin area. Roland is a member of the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) and the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Management and a Master of Business Administration Degree in International Trade from Sul Ross State University. innovation, investment, and technological advancement in the region. Under a collaborative model Roland is driving strategic initiatives that significantly enhance the region's economic diversity and competitiveness.
Speaker Bios
Rooted in Austin: Built for Business and Fueled by Talent
Yael Lawson is Chief Operations Officer at Workforce Solutions Capital Area, where she has led since 2017 after joining the organization in 2000. She oversees programs supporting job seekers, child care services, and employer engagement, with a focus on removing employment barriers and promoting economic mobility. Yael began her career working directly with clients, an experience that continues to shape her people-centered approach.
Yael Lawson
She also chairs the On Point Reentry Consortium, advancing regional efforts to support formerly incarcerated individuals. A longtime advocate for inclusive services, Yael is a former board member of The Arc of Central Texas.
Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart serves as the ninth Chancellor for Austin Community College District. Russell’s leadership is centered around the concept of–– LOVE, with a dedicated focus on enhancing student success through systemic and cultural transformation. As he prefers to be called, Russell previously served as president of Amarillo College in Amarillo, Texas, from 2014 to 2023 before beginning his tenure as ACC Chancellor. He also served as vice president of academic affairs for Amarillo College. Under his leadership, Amarillo College was named co-winner of the prestigious 2023 Aspen Prize, a Community College Excellence award. The award recognizes community colleges demonstrating high-quality and equitable outcomes for students.
Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart
Russell received a bachelor’s degree in speech communication and rhetoric from West Texas State University, a master’s degree in communication studies from Texas Tech University, and a doctorate in interpersonal communication (with an emphasis on gender and diversity) from Ohio University. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Kody Hodge Foundation. Russell and his wife of almost 30 years share three children
Opportunity Austin
The Greater Austin Region is a vibrant, globally connected region infused with economic adrenaline that drives inclusive prosperity through innovation, investment, and collaboration. The Austin community offers a distinct way of life, nurtures a deep talent pool, fosters an innovation culture, and boasts an impressive economic profile. But you might be wondering, “Why Austin?” The answer lies in the unique blend of opportunities and experiences that make this region a one-of-a-kind place.
Speaker Bios
Keep Austin Weird – Building a Strong Regional Brand
Omar Lozano is the Director of Music Marketing for Visit Austin.
Serving as the liaison for the Austin music community and tourism and hospitality industry, Omar creates marketing programs, dynamic live event experiences, content, and campaigns to promote Austin as Live Music Capital of the World®, internationally. Previously, Omar ran culture and music marketing programs for brands such as Red Bull North America and has created experiential event campaigns and content for big music and art moments around the world such as: Bonnaroo, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Art Basel, SXSW Austin/Sydney/London.
Omar Lozano
Levente McCrary joined ECPR Texas in December of 2009 and has more than 15 years of public relations experience. During her time at ECPR Texas, McCrary has managed numerous high-profile clients including Concordia University Texas, Google/Google Fiber, Las Palmas Del Sol Healthcare, Shalom Austin, Texas Mutual Insurance Company and Twin Liquors, among others. In this client work, she has led strategic media relations campaigns, crisis response, and client and event management. In addition to executing ongoing communications campaigns, McCrary has coordinated large client events, such as Google Fiber’s Austin announcement and Google’s self-driving car project, various press conferences at Austin City Hall and the Texas State Capitol, and client events across Texas. She has proven success in navigating public relations efforts for clients during times of times of crisis, including the 2019 mass shooting in El Paso and a healthcare system’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, working with national and local media outlets and reporters.
Levente McCrary
Prior to joining ECPR Texas, McCrary coordinated PR for Southern Methodist University (SMU), where she handled media efforts for the University’s key lecture series and development events, as well as media relations for all colleges across campus. As an integral part of SMU’s News & Communications team, McCrary also helped coordinate Fox News Channel’s live broadcasts of “Hannity & Colmes” and “Live Desk with Martha MacCallum,” as well as ABC’s “Good Morning America” broadcast from campus. McCrary got her start in PR at The Richards Group in Dallas and Saunders-Ream in Fort Worth, working with national consumer clients. A native Tennessean, McCrary earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and journalism from Texas A&M University and a Master of Science degree in public relations and advertising from Texas Christian University. She’s a previous Austin Under 40 Award finalist, a member and supporter of the Human Rights Campaign and the Mayor’s Corporate Engagement Council, as well as the League of Women Voters – Austin, Early Matters Greater Austin and Moms Demand Action.
Speaker Bios
Destination Austin: Festivals, Sports, Tourism & Transformation
Alex Casolaro is the Director of Credential Sales at SXSW, managing B2C and B2B badge sales for SXSW EDU and the SXSW Conferences & Festivals. Alex works across the organization, developing sales and marketing initiatives and strategic planning to increase credential sales and develops relationships with organizations, member groups, universities, and businesses to drive group sales and partnerships. Before joining SXSW, Alex worked at ViacomCBS in NYC for over seven years, focusing on sponsorships and event production for brands like Nickelodeon, MTV, and CMT. Her experience also includes work with Forefront Networks and The LINE Hotels, expanding her expertise across marketing, partnerships, hospitality, and event management.
Alex Casolaro
Jordyn Almendarez serves as the Sports Sales Manager for the Austin Sports Commission, where she plays a pivotal role in positioning Austin as a premier destination for sporting events. With over five years of combined experience in the hospitality industry, her expertise lies at the intersection of sports, tourism, and economic development, helping to drive visitation, generate revenue, and create lasting community impact. Since joining the Austin Sports Commission, Jordyn has contributed to securing high-profile events such as the Blast.TV Austin Major 2025, the MLS All-Star Game, the WTA ATX Open, and numerous other national and international competitions that continue to elevate Austin’s presence on the global sports stage.
Jordyn Almendarez
Katy Zamesnik has served as Chief Administrative Officer of the Austin Convention Center Department since August 2021, leading its redevelopment and expansion while overseeing the budget, funding strategies, and debt services. She also serves as liaison and contract manager for Visit Austin, the City’s destination marketing organization, and works closely with City Hall. As part of the Executive Team, Katy directs the department’s Community Engagement and Arts Programs. Previously, she was Acting Chief Administrative Officer, developing financial models for expansion during the pandemic and managing consultant contracts for real estate and development. She has also served as Business Process Consultant, Bond Development Coordinator, and Senior Budget Analyst for the City of Austin.
Katy Zamesnik
Katy holds a B.S. in Economics and International Affairs from Florida State University and a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Texas at Austin.
Speaker Bios
Crane City: A Look at Austin’s Infrastructure
Awais Azhar serves as the Executive Director of HousingWorks Austin, where he works to support affordable housing development, anti-displacement strategies, and various attainable housing initiatives through research, education, and advocacy. Prior to his current role, he served as the Deputy Director at the organization. For over a decade, Awais has advocated for affordability and mobility opportunities in Austin in various capacities. Awais has a Master of Science in Community and Regional Planning and a Master of Public Affairs and is currently a Community and Regional Planning Ph.D. Candidate at The University of Texas at Austin.
Awais Azhar
Awais has a Master of Science in Community and Regional Planning and a Master of Public Affairs and is currently a Community and Regional Planning Ph.D. Candidate at The University of Texas at Austin.
Jason Alexander is the Deputy Chief of Airport Affairs for the City of Austin’s Department of Aviation (Austin-Bergstrom International Airport), bringing more than 20 years of public administration experience. He oversees the Airport Affairs Division, leading local, state, and federal government relations, serving as liaison to the Airport Advisory Commission, and coordinating with the City Manager’s Office, Mayor and City Council, legislative delegations, and other partners.
He also manages the department’s records functions.
Jason Alexander
Jason joined the Department of Aviation in 2023 after nearly two decades with the City of Austin.
Since 2004, he has held multiple leadership roles across city departments, most recently serving as Chief of Staff to the City Manager and as part of the City’s executive management team. He holds a BBA from the University of Texas at Austin, an MPA from Texas State University, and a Project Management Certificate from George Washington University.
He is active in several professional associations.
Speaker Bios
Crane City: A Look at Austin’s Infrastructure
Lindsay brings local and national experience delivering large transit projects and programs through collaboration and a strong history working with partners and stakeholders. She leads the engineering and construction team at ATP and strives to create a light rail system that Austin will use, love and want more of. Lindsay is a past Chapter President of the WTS (Women’s’ Transportation Seminar) Heart of Texas Chapter and has a passion for introducing STEM career opportunities to girls early in their educations. As a 4th generation Austinite, she earned her degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and is a registered professional engineer in the state of Texas.
Lindsay Wood
Ashika Ganguly is the Executive Director of Transit Forward and is an Austin-based professional with a diverse background in education, legislative affairs, and community advocacy. Growing up in West Austin to immigrant parents, she learned the importance of service and leadership early on. Beginning her career as a 5th-grade teacher in Austin ISD, Ashika specialized in ESL and played a key role in the diversity council at a local elementary school for five years. Her time in the classroom motivated her to pursue a Master's in Education Policy and collaborate with Democratic leaders in the Texas Legislature to drive positive changes, such as thwarting voucher programs and enhancing the foster care system.
Ashika Ganguly
Actively engaged in the Indian American and AAPI communities, Ashika is committed to addressing crucial topics like transportation, economic stability, and affordable housing in Austin. With a focus on expanding affordable housing options for all Austinites, she is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in her city.
Speaker Bios
Beyond the Boom: Innovation in the Heart of Texas
Linda Ginac is the Chairwoman, CEO, and Founder of TalentGuard, a company based in Austin, Texas, specializing in talent intelligence software solutions. Linda has led the growth of TalentGuard from a start-up to a globally recognized enterprise with Fortune 2000 customers worldwide and offices in several countries. As a seasoned technology expert, Linda spearheaded growth for both privately funded startups and Fortune 500 companies, generating billions in enterprise value.
Linda Ginac
Linda has been honored with numerous awards, including technology and leadership accolades. TalentGuard has been recognized as a great place to work, and Linda has received awards from the Stevie Awards, the Leadership Institute, YWCA, and the Austin Business Journal for her exceptional leadership and contributions to the industry. Linda holds a Master’s Degree in Career Development from John F. Kennedy University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts from Norwich University. She also serves on the Board of the Austin Technology Council.
Raymond is currently the Chair of the Austin Tech Council and the Head of Digital for 3M. He is an expert in developing global digital transformation strategies, capabilities, and culture, focusing on creating differentiated customer experiences that drive profitable growth and sustainable competitive advantages. His unique hybrid background with deep expertise in Digital Technology Transformation, Innovation, and DTC/B2C/B2B Commercial Omni-channel Marketing sets him apart as a transformational leader.
Raymond Kunik, Jr.
As Chief Digital Officer of Resideo Technologies, Raymond led the successful transition and digital transformation of the Resideo and spin-off from Honeywell into an innovative industry-leading, “Customer First” globally connected home products and software-as-a-service company. Raymond pioneered and supported the strategic transition to drive connected services with new SaaSbased go-to-market energy service initiatives. During his tenure, he was able to support leading $1.5M in organic and acquisition incremental growth.
Speaker Bios
Beyond the Boom: Innovation in the Heart of Texas
Ronnie Sheth, CEO of SENEN GROUP, a global strategic advisory firm for data and AI leadership models the incredible impact women in STEM make, and the work that she and her women-led team have taken to break barriers in the tech sector. “SENEN is a rarity. It is one of the very few global data & AI consultancies founded & led by a young, diverse woman,” says Ronnie Sheth, Founder & CEO, SENEN GROUP. Recognized as one of the Top 300 Innovators & Innovation Enablers in Austin, SENEN GROUP is a leader in the data revolution, with a team of diverse and talented experts who are dedicated to creating transformative, human-centered experiences through the seamless integration of Data and Artificial Intelligence in strategy, operations, and culture.
Ronnie Sheth
“SENEN is a rarity. It is one of the very few global data & AI consultancies founded & led by a young, diverse woman. Thank you to the Austin Woman team for recognizing our work and passion to move both business and society forward through the power of data & AI.” – Ronnie Sheth, Founder & CEO, SENEN GROUP Ronnie Sheth has also been awarded Business Intelligence Group’s Business Awards “Woman of the Year” in 2023 for her groundbreaking work in the field of STEM
About SENEN Group
Our story starts in 2012 when our founder envisioned a company built to bring sustainable growth and impactful change to organizations around the globe. Rooted in traditional strategic advisory and management consulting, SENEN was formed to help companies identify and tackle root causes that stunt growth. While management consulting still exists at the very core of SENEN’s offerings, the team has now gone back to its roots in the data and AI space. With operational expertise as data and AI leaders in the technology sector, we now enable companies to tackle their most complex problems with the help of two critical enablers: data and AI.
SENEN started as a small Canadian company headquartered in Vaughan, Ontario.
Today, SENEN has expanded across North America and Europe serving large enterprises such as Fortune 500 companies, innovative scale-ups as well as public sector clients. With a logo base of industry titans and leading institutions, SENEN has built a track record of consistent success in delivering innovative strategies and scalable operating models in the field of data & AI.
Mueller Development
Mueller is a public-private partnership between the City of Austin and Catellus Development Corporation to redevelop the former Robert Mueller Municipal Airport (RMMA). Many entities work together to ensure Mueller not only meets, but exceeds the community- crafted goals of fiscal responsibility, economic development, east Austin revitalization, neighborhood compatibility, diversity and affordability, and sustainability. For more than 30 years, the many neighborhoods surrounding the municipal airport site participated in the planning for Mueller. The vision for redevelopment grew out of the 1984 Citizens for Airport Relocation (CARE) plan and was shaped by the Mueller Neighborhood Coalition (MNC), the voice of surrounding grassroots neighborhood associations formed in 1999 during the master-planning process. Community involvement continues today, including the Mueller Commission, the Mueller Property Owners Association and Mueller Neighborhood Association (MNA), and includes a variety of community engagement meetings, surveys and committees to provide ongoing input into Mueller’s development.
History at a Glance
The vision grew out of the 1984 Citizens for Airport Relocation (CARE) plan which called for a new town in-town, promoting compact and higher density development, compatible with the surrounding single-family neighborhoods. In 1996, the Council-appointed 16-member RMMA Redevelopment Process and Goals Task Force, representing a complete spectrum of Austin interests, reiterated this vision, calling for the creation of a compact and pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use community. In 2000, the City of Austin approved the RMMA Reuse and Redevelopment Plan which became the springboard for more detailed development planning with Catellus when it was selected as the Master Developer in 2002. In 2007, The first family moves into Mueller in a Meritage yard home on Emma Long Street, sparking features in the New York Times and Austin American-Statesman. In 2008, Lake Park and the Southwest Greenway officially open to the public. In 2013, the 83,000-square-foot H-E-B, the company’s most sustainable store, opens and the Thinkery, Austin’s children’s museum, opens. In 2015, the Austin ISD’s Performing Arts Center officially opens. In 2017, Alamo Drafthouse, B.D. Riley’s and Colleen’s Kitchen open as Aldrich Street’s first businesses. Catellus announces Texas Mutual Insurance Company will move its headquarters of more than 600 employees to Mueller in a four-story, 270,000-square-foot office building in the Aldrich Street district.
In 2018, Texas Mutual opens. In 2022, Origin Hotel opens. In 2023, AISD opens Dr. General Marshall Middle School.
Attendees
Shawn Avery Hampton Roads Workforce Council (757) 314-2370 savery@theworkforcecouncil.org
Barbara Blake Old Dominion University (757) 683-4834 bblakego@odu.edu
Brian Anderson ChamberRVA (706) 581-8466 brian.anderson@chamberrva.com
Mary Kate Andris CIVIC Leadership Institute (484) 571-1974 marykate.andris@civichr.org
Brandon Beavers Blue Ridge Insurance Services (757) 288-8282 Bbeavers@brisinc.com
Mary Bunting City Manager City of Hampton (757) 727-6392 mbunting@hampton.gov
Steven Carter City Manager City of Portsmouth (757) 393-8641 manager@portsmouthva.gov
Carlos Clanton Council Member City of Norfolk (757) 664-4268 carlos.clanton@norfolk.gov
Jacob Carasella Dominion Energy (757) 334-4943 Jacob.k.carasella@dominionen ergy.com
Scott Boyce Clark Nexsen (757) 961-7912 sboyce@clarknexsen.com
Bob Crum Hampton Roads Planning District Commission (757) 420-8300 rcrum@hrpdcva.gov
Jenny Crittenden The Retail Alliance (757) 466-1600 jcrittenden@retailalliance.com
Steve Cook Hampton Roads Workforce Council 757-314-2370 scook@theworkforcecouncil.org
Nick Cooper LaBella Associates (804) 399-0938 ncooper@LaBellaPC.com
Art Hall Tidewater Community College
(210) 262-3288 ahall@tcc.edu
Brian Donahue City of Portsmouth Economic Development (757) 373-7256 donahueb@portsmouthva.gov
Dr. Joel English Centura College/Aviation Institute of Maintenance (757) 817-6708 jenglish@cotullaeducation.com
John DeGruttola Sentara Health Plans (757) 552-7306 jedegrut@sentara.com
Greg Garrett Garrett Realty Partners (757) 879-1504 ggdirect@aol.com
Bryan Fox Poplar Group (919) 801-4735 bryan@poplargroup.com
Nancy Grden Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable (757) 572-6089 ngrden@roundtablehr.org
The Honorable Shannon Glover Mayor City of Portsmouth (757) 393-8746 mayor@portsmouthva.gov
Dorcas Helfant-Browning Coldwell Banker Professional Realtors (757) 754-4019 dorcashelfant@premiermove.com
Stephanie Gorham United Way of South Hampton Roads (940) 257-8034 sgorham@unitedwayshr.org
Greg Gilligan RVA757 Connects (804) 387-0024 gregory.gilligan@rva757connects.com
Attendees
Mamie Johnson Council Member
Ryan Kenrick Williams Mullen (757) 629-0636 rkenrick@williamsmullen.com
Sarah Jane Kirkland Old Dominion University (757) 683-5358 skirkland@odu.edu
Robert Jamison Virginia Beach Public Schools (757) 263-6985 robert.jamison@vbschools.com
Dr. Naseeb Kaleel NMK Consulting (330) 509-5552 nmkconsultingfirm@gmail.com
City of Norfolk (757) 664-4268 mamie.johnson@norfolk.gov
Kenneth Magee Virginia Natural Gas (757) 448-6221 kmagee@southernco.com
Troy Lindsey Dominion Energy (757) 857-2977 troy.lindsey@dominionenergy.com
Dr. Sara Lockett Virginia Beach Public Schools (757) 648-6180 sara.lockett@vbschools.com
Justin Lovell Forsythe Inc. (757) 449-9361 justin@forsytheinc.net
Pratik Kothari TechArk (757) 748-1190 pkothari@gotechark.com
Dr. Erika Marsillac Old Dominion University Strome College of Business (757) 683-3662 emarsill@odu.edu
Jeremy McGee Council Member City of Norfolk (757) 664-4268 jmcgee@radiantdigital.com
Thomas McCarthy Hourigan (757) 869-6589 thomas.mccarthy@hourigan.group
Martha Mugler Council Member City of Hampton (757) 727-6315 martha.mugler@hampton.gov
Georgie Márquez André + Márquez Architects (757) 557-0630 gmarquez@amarchitx.com
Mark Perryman Norfolk Airport Authority (757) 857-3351 mperryman@norfolkairport.com
Michele Partridge-Lane Russell’s American Mechanical (757) 343-8946 mplane@russellshvac.com
Marcellus Nixon Southside Network Authority (703) 203-0117 mnixon_SNA@hrpdcva.gov
Paul Nolde 757 Collab (804) 366-1535 paul@757Collab.org
Jacquelin Norell Deloitte (571) 292-7292 jnorell@deloitte.com
Bob Pizzini iFLY Va Beach Indoor Skydiving (757) 333-4940 bob@iflyvabeach.com
Glen Robertson Wolcott Rivers Gates (757) 497-6633 grobertson@wolriv.com
AJ Rivera Home Smiles Virginia Beach (757) 831-5668 ajrivera@homesmiles.com
Stephen Romine Williams Mullen (757) 473-5301 sromine@williamsmullen.com
Mel Price Work Program Architects (757) 575-4613 mel@wparch.com
Attendees
Vernon Tillage Council Member City of Portsmouth (948) 888-0294 tillagev@portsmouthva.gov
Jolie Spiers Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center (757) 664-2592 jspiers@hrchamber.com
Martin Thomas Vice Mayor
Damian Seitz Clark Nexsen (757) 641-2017 dseitz@clarknexsen.com
Dr. Hope Sinclair Communities in Schools (757) 580-7966 sinclairh@cisofva.org
City of Norfolk (757) 664-4268 Martin.Thomas@norfolk.gov
The Honorable Rick West Mayor City of Chesapeake (757) 382-6153 rwest@cityofchesapeake.net
LeOtis Williams Council Member
Lue Ward Vice Mayor
Steven Wright Chesapeake Economic Development (757) 382-8040 scwright@cityofchesapeake.net
Michelle Wren Portsmouth Partnership (757) 472-4338 michelle@portsmouthpartnership.org
City of Suffolk (757) 514-4018 whaleyville@suffolkva.us
City of Suffolk (757) 377-6929 lward@suffolkva.us
Sean Washington Norfolk Economic Development (757) 664-4338 sean.washington@norfolk.gov
Chamber Team We are here to help make your LEX trip the most impactful and enjoyable experience possible. Please feel free to use our contact information listed below should you need anything before, during and even after the trip.
Anne Thuma Vice President,
Melissa Rose Manager,
Programs & Development 757-692-3364 (call or text) athuma@hrchamber.com
Programs & Development 757-450-6005 (call or text) mrose@hrchamber.com
Lauren Roberts Carter Vice President, Marketing & Communications 724-681-4756 (call or text) lroberts@hrchamber.com
Emily Nelson Coordinator,
Bryan K. Stephens President & CEO bkstephens@hrchamber.com
Programs & Development 757-620-3716 (call or text) enelson@hrchamber.com
Travel FROM THE AIRPORT Rideshare Apps & Taxis Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Ride shares must be requested individually via the app on your phone Rideshare services are available near Baggage Claim Pick-up and drop-off are in front of the Barbara Jordan Terminal Taxis services are available 24 hours a day Taxi service from the airport to downtown is approx. $33 From the airport to the hotel is approximately 15-20 minutes (7 miles)
Trains & Buses
The Downtown Austin MetroRail Station is 9 miles from the airport Air passengers can take a taxi or bus to the MetroRail station Capital Metro Route 20 bus to downtown takes approx. 35 minutes at $1.25 Buses are at the Neon Guitar Bus Stop at the airport terminal grounds
Rental Cars
Rental cars companies can be found on the first level near Baggage Claim Follow signs for Rental Cars There are currently 11 rental car companies to choose from & a range of options
Airport Information Austin Bergstrom International Airport is eight kilometers southeast of Downtown Austin, Texas. Owned and operated by the City of Austin, it is the second-fastest growing, mid-sized airport in the United States. The airport is also an economic engine in Central Texas, supplying over 74,000 direct and indirect jobs in the Central Texas region. It is located on the site of the former Bergstrom Air Force Base. The airport has two runways and three helipads with destinations in North America and Europe. The Barbara Jordan Terminal is the main terminal with 34 gates, six of which are for international flights.
Austin–Bergstrom International Airport covers an area of 4,242 acres and sits 165 meters above sea level at 30°11′40″N and 097°40′12″W with an address of 3600 Presidential Blvd, Austin, TX 78719
TIPS Other
Attire
Attire is Business Casual for all days Texas themed clothing is encouraged for evening activities Bring comfortable shoes for walking tours
Check-in
Hotel is the JW Marriott Austin Address is: 110 E 2 Street, Austin, Texas 78701 nd Hotel check-in time begins at 3PM, check out is at 11AM You will receive your trip materials at the Chamber’s Welcome Station Located in room 502 at the JW Marriott Austin (5 Floor) th Welcome Station is open from 2:30-5PM on Wednesday September 24
Travel Guide
Please bring this guide with you each day and use it to find all agenda specifics, speaker bios, LEX participants & to take any notes The guide is also available digitally by scanning the QR code on the back of your name lanyard
Social Media
We will be capturing photos throughout the trip for sharing on the Chamber’s social media channels No photos will be taken or used from evening receptions or dinner portions of the event unless otherwise specified Several group photo ops will be coordinated for us-please participate We want to see your LEX Austin experiences on social media too so please feel free to post Please tag us @chamber757 in your photos across all social media platforms Share our posts-we will be doing daily recaps during the trip. Help us spread the word about how impactful these trips are by sharing what we post
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS Presenting Sponsor
Austin Experience Sponsor
Reception Sponsor
Workforce Panel Discussion Sponsor
Tourism Discussion Sponsor
Gifting Sponsor
Find us on social media #HRCAustin2025
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