A distinguished group of retail innovators was honored at the 2018 "Salute to Retail" luncheon and awards program, April 25 at River Oaks Country Club.
In its seventh year, the event has become a tradition, as generous donors and sponsors provide funds for student scholarships and support the Star Endowment for retailing and consumer science and global retailing.
The 2018 event was co-chaired by Chris Goins of The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and Tenenbaum Jewelers’ Tony Bradfield and Kevin Black. Goins is an alumnus of the University of Houston Retailing and Consumer Science program. This year’s luncheon attracted nearly 300 individuals including Houston entrepreneurs, retail and fashion industry luminaries, media, and University of Houston alumni, faculty and staff. Dominique Sachse, UH alumna and anchor for KPRC Channel 2, emceed the luncheon.
Two Rising Star Award scholarship winners, Taylor Harris and Blake Mudd, were recognized. Harris graduated from the University of Houston with her B.S. in Retailing and Consumer Science and went on to pursue her master’s in Global Retailing. She currently works in corporate retail of a large multi-channel fashion retailer while pursuing her master’s degree. Harris hopes to own her own business one day.
Also pursuing his master’s, Blake Mudd received his B.S. in Retailing and Consumer Science from UH. Passionate about both retailing and higher education, he plans to pursue a doctorate degree with a goal of becoming a professor at a tier-one university. Blake leads fundraising efforts for UH Collegiate DECA, and represents the College of Technology and the UH Graduate School as an advancement ambassador while working as a sales and merchandising associate at a premier retailer.
The retailing and consumer science program’s advisory board chaired by Roz Pactor, noted fashion consultant and lifestyle blogger, selected eight honorees including business owners: Betty Newton, à bientôt; Christina Mitchell, Abejas Boutique; Tina Davis, Cheeky Vintage; and Regina Garcia, Events. Cyndy Garza Roberts, director of public affairs for H-E-B- was recognized for community service. Holly Moore, editor in chief and co-owner of PaperCity and John Sheehan, senior group vice president for Target stores were honored for their leadership, passion, and innovation.
The Lifetime Achievement award was presented to Joe Williams, who has worked tirelessly in the association community for many years, serving as Texas Retailers Association vice president from 2006 to 2015 and as president of the Gulf Coast Retailers from 1994 to 2006. Williams serves on the University of Houston Retailing and Consumer Science advisory board. In 2004, the Bush Administration appointed him to the Maternal, Infant and Fetal Nutrition Nation Advisory Council. He also served on the University of Houston College of Technology Dean’s advisory board.
See highlights: UH Salute to Retail Photo Gallery