PRESS RELEASE
Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Board Reception Highlights Success Through Diversity, Action
January 5, 2026 -- This is an article from Rice News, authored by Sam Byrd.
Photo by Vicky Pink
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.”
- Full article and photo gallery at https://news.rice.edu/news/2026/mayors-hispanic-advisory-board-reception-highlights-success-through-diversity-action