NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
February 27, 2026
Contact: Rebekah Beltran
Fort Bend Regional Partnership
281-566-2158
2026 State of Higher Education
The Fort Bend Regional Partnership’s Education & Workforce Alliance will host the 2026 State of Higher Education on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM at Safari Texas Ranch. This event is generously sponsored by our Title Sponsor, Stantec.
Higher education plays a critical role in shaping the future of our workforce and remains a cornerstone for preparing residents to contribute meaningfully to our local economy. To explore the evolving landscape of education and its impact on workforce development, the upcoming panel discussion will be led by Education & Workforce Alliance Chair, Jennifer Henrikson with Stantec. Featured panelists include Dr. Michael Webster (Houston City College), Mr. Bryan Bowling (Texas State Technical College), Dr. Amanda Allen (Wharton County Junior College), and Dr. Jay Neal (University of Houston). Together, they will examine the future of higher education in a time of rapid change and innovation.
This event is sponsored by Stantec, Houston City College, Kirksey Architecture, Pfluger Architects, Texas State Technical College, University of Houston, and Wharton County Junior College.
Sponsorship opportunities and even registration is now open to Fort Bend Regional Partnership members. Presenting Sponsor: $2,500, includes seating for ten (10) with priority placement at event, company logo on marketing materials, and recognition during event. Underwriting Sponsor: $1,200, includes seating for eight (8), company name on marketing materials, and recognition during event. Corporate Table: $800, includes seating for eight (8) at event. Individual Member Reservation: $50, includes individual reservation at event. Details of upcoming events can be found at www.fortbendregionalpartnership.com or contact Rebekah Beltran at 281-566-2158 or [email protected].
The Education & Workforce Alliance of the Fort Bend Regional Partnership is under the leadership of Chair, Jennifer Henrikson, Stantec. The Education & Workforce Alliance’s passion is building awareness and connections between the business sector, community leaders, and education. By keeping its members engaged with current events impacting education on a local and national level; the division’s goal is to create opportunities for individuals to invest in education.
About the Fort Bend Regional Partnership
The Fort Bend Regional Partnership (formerly Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce) is a 5-star accredited, the largest single-county chamber in the greater Houston region and the largest business organization in Fort Bend County representing over 1,000 business organizations, over 5,000 individuals, and over 250,000 jobs. As the advocate for excellence in Fort Bend County and beyond, we do essential work to protect the business interests in our region. The organization has been able, over the last 53 years, to be a strong and successful voice for business due to the solid and impressive investment of our members. The Fort Bend Regional Partnership creates, enhances and promotes the dynamic environment in which we work and live.
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