Irving Hispanic Chamber celebrates local businesses and business people
Written by Phil Cerroni
By Amanda Casanova
Eva Guzman is the first Latina appointed and elected to the Texas Supreme Court and one of the most influential Latino leaders in the nation. Serving as the 8th annual Irving Hispanic Chamber Awards luncheon’s guest speaker, Guzman told attendees that Hispanic chambers are a key part to communities.
“They have made the community part of their business plan,” she said. “They’re investing. They’re giving back to their community. These types of events would not be possible without strong leadership both in the community and in the chamber.”
With an overall population of more than 218,000, Irving’s Hispanic population comprises almost 42 percent.
Irving City Manager Tommy Gonzalez, who attended the luncheon, said it is important that young people, especially Hispanics, understand they work is necessary for success.
“The message to children is that if they apply themselves, go to school and do something after you go to school, you are going to be successful if you have results,” Gonzalez said. “In America you can be successful if you apply yourself, but the bullying you get in school doesn’t change and the way you stand up to that is with results.”
During the event, the Chamber celebrated its most distinguished members and businesses for 2012.
The 2012 IHCC award winners include:
Chamber Champion - Sharon Barbosa-Crain.
Entrepreneur of the Year - Angie Franco, Encanto Cake Shop.
Small Business Champion - Tommy Gonzalez, Irving City Manager.
Small Business Year - Gene Guzman, G&C Direct Mail Marketing.
Corporate of the Year - TXU Energy, Jon Bennett.
The prestigious LATINA Style HONORS Latina Leaders of the USHCC National award went to Asusena Reséndiz, President and CEO of the Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Asusena was recognized and celebrated as one of the most successful Chamber leaders in the Nation by the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Latina Style in 2011 and 2012.
"This event is the perfect example of commitment to creating dynamic partnerships and to ensure that the City of Irving is a magnet for new and established business at are able to add diversity," said Asusena Resendiz, President of the IHCC. "We're fortunate to have had TXU title sponsor this year's event, and are honored to be here celebrating the success of our corporate and small business community."
Guzman said the Chamber is able to reach out to Hispanics and help them with their goals.
“We’re all about the American dream, Latino dreams,” she said. “Chambers make the American dream possible for new generations.
“I love the theme for the luncheon: Energizing the new generation. Are we energized?” Guzman asked to a room full of applause.
Founded in 1998, the Hispanic Chamber’s mission is to identify, develop, promote and support Irving businesses and those serving the Hispanic community through programs, activities and services.
Some information provided by the Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
