Introduction to Houstonian of the Year
For the second year running, an annual award is being presented to the Houstonian of the Year. This award shines a spotlight on individuals or groups who embody Houston’s resilience, creativity, and drive. The city is full of people who make it better every single day, and this award aims to recognize their efforts. Some fight for safer streets or more inclusive spaces, while others bring culture and community to the forefront through food, advocacy, or public service.
The Nominees
This year, there are several nominees for the Houstonian of the Year award. Each of them has made significant contributions to the city and its community. The nominees include BikeHouston, a collective of pedal-powered changemakers; Jessica Callahan, an accessibility advocate; Victoria Elizondo of Cochinita & Co., a culinary changemaker; Dr. Peter Hotez of Baylor College of Medicine, a vaccine warrior; Stephen Klineberg of the Kinder Institute, a diversity visionary; David and Dara Landry of Class Bookstore, literacy advocates; Councilman Edward Pollard, a trailblazer; Shawn Singh, a dining scene amplifier; Tammi Wallace of LGBT Chamber of Commerce, an equality champion; and Rep. Gene Wu, a quorum breaker.
BikeHouston: Pedal-Powered Changemakers
BikeHouston is a collective that has been making a major impact on Houston’s streets. Led by Executive Director Joe Cutrufo and Program Director Robert Grobe, the organization advocates for infrastructure that makes biking in Houston safer and more accessible. They also share resources on safety laws, trail closures, bike registration, and community ride guides, and host memorial rides for victims of hit-and-run accidents.
Jessica Callahan: Accessibility Advocate
Jessica Callahan is a Houstonian who has two passions in life: Braille transcription and food. She has raised the issue of accessible menus in restaurants, which has gained traction and raised local awareness. Some restaurants have already committed to creating a more inclusive dining experience.
Victoria Elizondo: Culinary Changemaker
Victoria Elizondo is the chef-owner of Cochinita & Co. and a recipient of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). She uses her platform for advocacy and has hosted events to help her East End community become familiar with their rights during uncertain times.
Dr. Peter Hotez: Vaccine Warrior
Dr. Peter Hotez is a renowned expert in public health and has spent decades tackling neglected diseases. He has been a steady presence during the COVID-19 pandemic, speaking out publicly and challenging misinformation. He continues to prioritize research, teaching, and advocacy, keeping science and truth at the center of the conversation.
Stephen Klineberg: Diversity Visionary
Dr. Stephen Klineberg is a sociologist and demographics expert who has been tracking trends in Houston since 1982. His annual Kinder Houston Area Survey provides a comprehensive view of Houston life, including ethnicity, country of origin, religion, household income, and other factors.
David and Dara Landry: Literacy Advocates
David and Dara Landry are the owners of Class Bookstore in the Third Ward. They have been promoting literacy at a local level, offering a shelf full of free books and hosting events such as poetry nights, lectures, and book release parties.
Councilman Edward Pollard: Trailblazer
Councilman Edward Pollard was elected to the Houston City Council in 2019 and reelected in 2023. He has created Houston’s Food Insecurity Board, initiated the Police Transparency Dashboard, and launched several programs, including a beautification initiative and a specialized police patrol.
Shawn Singh: Dining Scene Amplifier
Shawn Singh is a viral Houston dining enthusiast who has significantly expanded his following in the past few months. He has been sharing food and life updates, and has been vocal about his experiences with racism in Houston.
Tammi Wallace: Equality Champion
Tammi Wallace is the cofounder, president, and CEO of Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce. She is a resilient and courageous member of the city’s community, fighting for equality and advocating for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.
Rep. Gene Wu: Quorum Breaker
Rep. Gene Wu made national headlines this year after leading Texas Democrats to break quorum in protest of the Trump-backed, Republican-led efforts to redraw districting maps. He has been a vocal advocate for the rights of his community and has seen significant support from Houston during the fight.
Conclusion
The Houstonian of the Year award is a celebration of the individuals and groups who make Houston a better place. Each of the nominees has made significant contributions to the city, and it is up to the readers to decide who deserves the award. By casting their vote, readers can recognize the efforts of these changemakers and show their appreciation for all that they do. The winner of the award will be a testament to the resilience, creativity, and drive of the people of Houston.
