Opportunities and Challenges

Yesterday I had the great privilege to host Comerica Bank's 2nd Quarter Women's Business Symposium Luncheon and moderate a discussion with a stellar panel of powerful, accomplished women.  Anna Babin - President of the United Way of Greater Houston, Catherine Mosbacher - CEO of Center for Houston's Future and Ann Stern - President of Houston Endowment shared their expertise, experience and aspirations regarding the "Opportunities and Challenges Facing Houston". 

Collectively their organizations impact everyone in the region, through innovative planning for the future, leadership development, strengthening families and neighborhoods and supporting and improving education, human services, health, arts and environment.  It's easy to understand the importance, but hard to quantify the impact of the Center for Houston's Future's research, planning and civic engagement.  On the other hand the sheer numbers for the other organizations are incredibly impressive, but only tell part of the story.  Houston Endowment has invested $1.4 billion in improving the region and awarded scholarships to more than 10,000 Jones scholars.  Last year alone, United Way served 790,000 family members.

It was powerful hearing all three leaders independently articulate the same priorities for the vibrancy of our region - improving education and addressing wealth disparity.  And it's not surprising that the two issues are linked.  The more we learn, the more we tend to earn. 

The return on investment for educational gains are remarkable, especially for early childhood education.  And the regional economic impact of increasing completion of 2 and 4 years degrees by only 1% is estimated to be over $4 billion.

Anna, Catherine and Ann agreed that Houston is a remarkable place, strengthened by our diversity and generous spirit.  Through investment, voting and advocacy, volunteer service and collaboration we will continue to be a great place to live, work, learn and play.