October 30, 2025
at 713 Music Hall
401 Franklin Street • Houston, TX
On the World Stage
On the World Stage
Step into the future of Downtown Houston, alongside the city’s leading voices.
On October 30, 2025, the State of Downtown brought together nearly 1,000 business and community leaders, elected officials, key stakeholders, and top executives to celebrate the progress happening at the heart of the city. This annual event highlighted major milestones, reflected on Downtown’s influence across the region, and offered insight into the exciting developments ahead. It was one of Houston’s most anticipated business gatherings, where important conversations and connections took shape.
2025’s State of Downtown brought together an all-star lineup of Houston sports legends who knew what it meant to perform when the world was watching.
The H-Town All-Star Panel explored the spirit of global competition, leadership, and collaboration — the same qualities that defined world-class sports and a thriving Downtown.
On the World Stage:
The H-Town All-Star Panel
Stu Holden (Moderator)
Former U.S. Men’s National midfielder and FOX Sports’ lead analyst for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup. A Houston Dynamo standout and minority owner of RCD Mallorca, Stu brings global insight and hometown pride.
Joe Espada
Manager of the Houston Astros and 2022 World Series champion bench coach. Known for his preparation and poise, Joe has also coached for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic.
Tim Howard
Hall of Fame goalkeeper, World Cup record-holder, and Premier League analyst for NBC Sports. A minority owner of the Houston Dynamo and Dash, Tim’s story of resilience and leadership mirrors Houston’s moment on the world stage.
Rudy Tomjanovich
Hall of Fame coach who led the Houston Rockets to back-to-back NBA titles, won Olympic gold with USA Basketball, and delivered Houston’s defining phrase: “Don’t ever underestimate the heart of a champion.”
More from the Main Stage:
State of Downtown also featured remarks from prominent Houston leaders, along with updates from Downtown Houston+
Martha Castex-Tatum
Mayor Pro Tem, City of Houston
Kris Larson, AICP, LPM
President & CEO, Downtown Houston+
Stephanie Burritt
Central Houston, Inc. Chair
Principal and Co-managing Director, Houston Office, Gensler
Margaret Cooper
Director and Sr. Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Chevron
2025’s Allen Award for Civic Enhancement honored:
C. Richard Everett • Chairman & CEO of Everett Interests
For his extraordinary contributions to Downtown’s growth and vitality
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
Event Sponsors
World Premiere Sponsor
Since the first oil strike at Spindletop over 100 years ago, Chevron has been a proud member of the Houston community.
The World Envoy Sponsor
Global Vanguard Sponsor
Center Stage Sponsor
In Motion Moments Sponsor
Multi-Platinum Sponsor
Multi-Platinum Sponsor
Multi-Platinum Sponsor
Certified Gold Sponsors
Printing Sponsor
Central Houston was proud to host the 2025 State of Downtown at 713 Music Hall, located within the historic POST Houston.
A Downtown landmark of the city’s cultural scene, 713 Music Hall blended bold industrial design with state-of-the-art production. It set the stage for a powerful gathering that celebrated Downtown’s progress, energy and shared civic future.
New Venue for 2025
713 Music Hall
29° 45' 57.4" N
95° 21' 50.5" W
Don’t wait until next year!
Claim your place among leaders shaping the future of Downtown. Become a member of Central Houston, Inc. today!
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