HOUSTON – Houston's maritime future just received a powerhouse addition. In a resounding vote of confidence, Mayor John Whitmire and the Houston City Council have appointed renowned attorney Roland Garcia to serve a two-year term as a Port Commissioner of the Port of Houston Authority. This decision underscores Garcia’s vast experience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Houston community.

Garcia, a seasoned legal expert and dedicated civic leader, brings an impressive track record of service to the role. Currently, he serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Pilot Commissioners of Harris County Ports and as Co-Chair of the Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Board. His influence extends even further as a board member of the Greater Houston Partnership and the Harris County Hospital District Foundation. A former board member of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, Garcia has played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s economic and civic landscape.

A Champion for Growth and Collaboration

Mayor Whitmire enthusiastically praised Garcia’s appointment, emphasizing his deep-rooted understanding of maritime affairs and his unparalleled commitment to Houston’s progress.

“Roland has experience working on maritime issues, has chaired the transition of the newly created Pilot Board, is passionate about the community, and understands the power of collaboration,” said Mayor Whitmire. “I know he will strongly advocate for the Port’s continued growth and success, which significantly contributes to our economy and job creation.”

Garcia’s legal prowess is well-documented. A graduate of Baylor University with Honors and a JD recipient from South Texas College of Law, Garcia has spent decades navigating complex legal waters. A former President of the Houston Bar Association and a proud graduate of the U.S. Marine Corps Officer Training Program, his leadership is as strategic as it is impactful. As a founding member of the Houston office of international law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP, Garcia has demonstrated a unique ability to bridge industries and drive positive change.

Coming Full Circle

For Garcia, this appointment is more than just a title—it’s a full-circle moment.

“I am grateful to Mayor Whitmire and members of the Houston City Council for their confidence in me to serve in this important role,” Garcia shared. “Port Houston is the busiest waterway in the nation and vital to the region’s economy. I look forward to building on the legacy while working with my fellow commissioners and Port Houston’s executive leadership. As a young lawyer 38 years ago, I represented the Port in landmark cases and have worked on Port matters and with Port leadership ever since. I have come full circle.”

His passion for Houston’s continued prosperity is evident. With an emphasis on innovation, economic development, and job creation, Garcia’s leadership is poised to usher in a new era for the Port of Houston. His swearing-in ceremony is set to take place in the near future, marking the official start of what promises to be a transformative tenure.

Houston Style Magazine readers, as Houston continues to thrive as a global economic hub, having a forward-thinking leader like Roland Garcia at the helm ensures that the city’s maritime industry remains a beacon of success. Stay tuned—big things are on the horizon for the Port of Houston!

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