11/21/2025
Thank You to Our 2025 GEDP Economic Summit Speakers
As we reflect on this year’s Summit, we’re reminded that great events aren’t defined by agendas or rooms—they’re defined by the people who step up to share what they know. This year’s speakers brought substance, clarity, and heart to some of the most important conversations shaping Galveston’s future.
From Victoria Greene’s sharp market outlook to the candid State of the City conversation with Mayor Craig Brown, City Manager Brian Maxwell, and moderator Allan Rasmussen, every session added depth to the day. Rodger Rees delivered a forward-looking update on the Port, and Joshua Owens grounded the room with a data-driven view of where the island is headed.
Our breakout panels were especially strong, thanks to leaders like Steven Biegel, Anastasia Gaido, Mohamed Eldawy, Dru Kahlenberg, Victor Pierson, Stephen Maxwell, Frank Komainski, VJ Tramonte, Jeremy Douglas, Joe Ratzel, Keith Bassett, Michele Hay, Teresa Evans, James Brockway, and Barry Ferguson—each of whom brought real-world experience to the table.
We were honored to welcome Jay Garner for the keynote, followed by an exceptional innovation discussion led by UTMB’s Dr. Jochen Reiser, Dr. Thaker Harshwardhan, Dr. Vineet Gupta, Craig Kovacevich, and Dr. Peter McCaffery. Their work is shaping the island’s research and technology future in ways that matter.
The afternoon closed with a strong look at regional progress from Brian Freedman, Commissioners Hank Dugie and Darrell Apffel, and community development insights from Lance LaCour, Carianne Riley, and Aubrey Harbin.
To every one of you—thank you. Your expertise elevated the entire Summit, and your willingness to share your time, your experience, and your perspective is what makes this event meaningful for our community. We’re grateful you chose to be part of it.
