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The tone for this year’s Annual Meeting, presented by Frost, was set the moment guests arrived at the historic Will Rogers Memorial Center. Jazzy street musicians welcomed attendees with unmistakable Fort Worth flair, while Printed Threads offered the chance to purchase exclusive FWC merchandise from a vintage Airstream before the program began.
At check-in, guests received their seating assignments and a commemorative handkerchief (missed yours? We’ve got extras), then were greeted by Action Ambassadors with fresh popcorn and classic movie theater candy—fuel for an afternoon designed to inform, inspire, and celebrate.
Inside, the auditorium transformed with 1920s-inspired design elements and vintage sponsor banners—bringing this year’s theme to life: The Modern Chamber — legacy-driven, future-focused.
Presenting sponsor Frost Bank opened the program, with Fort Worth Region Market President Hadley Woerner highlighting a 150+ year commitment to integrity, service, and community investment—values that continue to shape Fort Worth’s future.
The Chamber was proud to recognize Bob Jameson, President & CEO of Visit Fort Worth, as the 2026 Susan Halsey Executive Leadership Award recipient, presented by Jackson Walker.
For more than 20 years, Jameson has helped position Fort Worth as a premier destination—driving economic impact while serving as a tireless ambassador for the city. His leadership reflects the collaborative, forward-thinking spirit that defines Fort Worth.
Outgoing Chair Brian Newby reflected on a year of strong economic momentum and unified leadership—underscoring the Chamber’s role in advocacy, engagement, and business growth.
He then welcomed 2026 Chair Mike Micallef, who reinforced a powerful message:
“The Chamber isn’t a building… The Chamber is you.”
A reminder that Fort Worth’s continued success depends on engaged businesses and bold leadership.
President & CEO Steve Montgomery highlighted the Chamber’s impact in 2025—and where it’s headed next.
From launching a new strategic plan to strengthening advocacy and expanding workforce initiatives, the Chamber is doubling down on its role as the leading voice for business in one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.
Key focus areas included:
“Making Fort Worth the best place in America to start, grow, and operate a business.”
Presented by Higginbotham, the Spirit of Enterprise Award recognized Crescent Real Estate for its lasting impact on Fort Worth’s growth.
From shaping skylines to creating vibrant destinations, Crescent exemplifies long-term vision, innovation, and community investment—helping position Fort Worth as a dynamic place to live, work, and do business. Read More About Crescent Real Estate
Presented by The University of Texas at Arlington, the keynote panel explored what it takes to build businesses that last for generations.
What is the Centennial Club?
The Centennial Club recognizes Fort Worth organizations that have operated for 100+ years—businesses that have helped shape the city while continuing to evolve and innovate.
Panelists (R to L):
Their conversation reinforced a central theme: honoring legacy while continuously adapting is key to long-term success.
The energy didn’t stop when the program ended. Guests moved into the historic 1936 buildings for a reception, presented by TTI, Inc., that fully delivered on the Fort Worth experience.
In the Tower rotunda, a museum-style Centennial Club exhibit showcased rare photos and videos from the city’s oldest institutions—bringing generations of business leadership to life.
Next door, the Coliseum lobby was buzzing with incredible food from Magdalena’s, an AI-powered photo booth that let guests step into different decades, and even a chance to catch live cutting horse competition in action.
It was the perfect close to a day that celebrated Fort Worth’s legacy—and built excitement for what’s ahead.
This event—and the Chamber’s ongoing work to support a thriving business community—is made possible by partners who invest in Fort Worth’s future.
Bank of Texas
Cantey Hanger LLP
Crescent Real Estate
Forvis Mazars
HDR
Hillwood
JPMorgan Chase & Co
Meta
Oncor
PlainsCapital Bank
PNC Bank
Schaefer Ad Co.
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Texas A&M / Tarleton State University
TCU
Texas Health Resources
The Rios Group
Transwestern
Visit Fort Worth
ArcaContinental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages
Cook Children's
DFW Airport
Danone North America
Freese & Nichols
Jacobs
LKCM
North Texas Commission
Tarrant County College
Tarrant Regional Water District
Texas Motor Speedway
Trinity Metro
Valor
FOH Events - A/V Sponsor
GL Seaman & Company - Event Furnishings
Global Premier Staffing - Photo Booth
Fort Worth Inc. Magazine - Media
Kazadorez Venue
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