2026 Dinner and Conversation

Join the Center for Houston’s Future for our signature fall event, Dinner and Conversation—an evening of civic leadership, community engagement, and thought-provoking dialogue.

We are proud to present the Eugene H. Vaughan Civic Leadership Award to Donna Cole, a distinguished business leader, civic champion, and Spring 2005 alum of the Center’s Business/Civic Leadership Forum. Named in honor of our founder, this award recognizes individuals whose leadership, service, and vision have made a lasting impact on the Houston region.

Donna is the founder of Cole Chemical & Distributing, Inc. and has built a nationally recognized company while dedicating decades of service to Houston through board leadership, international engagement, and philanthropy. Her work advancing economic development, strengthening global partnerships, and mentoring future leaders reflects the values at the heart of the Center’s mission.

Our annual Dinner and Conversation convene leaders from across business, government, and the nonprofit sector to engage in meaningful discussion on the issues shaping Houston’s future.

Additional details, including featured speakers, agenda, and ticket information, will be announced soon.

Sponsorship Opportunities?

For more information, please contact:

Miri Wilkins, Senior Director of Development, mwilkins@futurehouston.org