LAREDO, TEXAS — The Laredo Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Mr. Cliffe Killam, President and CEO of Killam Development, will serve as the keynote speaker for the upcoming Vision 2026 Conference: “State of the Business Community.” The conference will convene business, civic, and community leaders for a meaningful and forward-looking conversation about Laredo’s future and the most critical issues shaping the region.
Hosted and organized by the Laredo Chamber of Commerce, the Vision 2026 Conference has become one of the community’s most respected platforms for insight, dialogue, and collaboration. This year’s selection of Mr. Cliffe Killam as keynote speaker reflects his longstanding leadership, deep local roots, and active role in shaping economic growth and revitalization efforts across Laredo, South Texas, and beyond.
Cliffe Killam was selected for this year’s keynote address because of his proven ability to translate “VISION” into action. As President and CEO of Killam Development, he has played a central role in advancing projects that strengthen local infrastructure, attract investment, create jobs, and elevate quality of life. His work spans real estate, energy industry, philanthropy, the arts, education, healthcare, civic and business leadership roles, with a growing emphasis on downtown redevelopment and long-term community sustainability. Killam has a pulse on the state of the business community and a direct hand in projects that are generating opportunity and economic momentum for Laredo.
In his keynote address, Killam will speak candidly about the current business climate, emerging challenges and opportunities, and his vision for re-developing Downtown Laredo as a vibrant economic and cultural hub. His perspective is shaped not only by decades of industry experience, but also by a deep commitment to keeping community at the center of growth.
“Being selected as the keynote speaker for Vision 2026 is truly an honor,” said Cliffe Killam. “Laredo is a city with incredible people, a place I am profoundly humbled to call home, and so much potential for continued growth and prosperity for our region. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share ideas, listen, and collaborate with leaders who care deeply about our region’s future.”
The Vision 2026 Conference will bring together distinguished speakers and panelists across key sectors, including healthcare, food sustainability, economic development, local infrastructure, and downtown revitalization. Among other esteemed speakers, participants include special guests:
Mr. Alejandro Meade III, Commissioner, Texas Transportation Commission
Mr. Eric Hamon, President & CEO, Driscoll Health System
Mr. Oscar Buitron, CEO, Clear Choice Emergency Room
Mr. Jorge E. Leal, FACHE, CEO, Laredo Medical Center
Mr. Elmo Lopez, CEO, Gateway Community Health Center
Mr. Pat Murphy, VP at San Isidro Management
Mr. Sheldon Gallegos, President, Gallegos Paving
The Honorable Alyssa Cigarroa, Laredo City Councilmember, District 8
The Honorable Ricardo A. Jaime, Webb County Commissioner, Precinct 4
Past Vision Conference keynote speakers have included State of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Former State of Texas Governor and President of the United States, George W. Bush, Texas Secretary of State John B. Scott, Former President of Mexico Vicente Fox, Former Ambassador to Mexico Geronimo Gutierrez, and sports figures like star NFL quarterback Terry Bradshaw and Sean Elliot of the San Antonio Spurs. This year’s keynote speaker sits among a legacy of influential voices who have helped shape conversations around progress and prosperity in Laredo.
The Laredo Chamber of Commerce invites business leaders, stakeholders, and community members to attend or become a sponsor of the Vision 2026 Conference.
For more information about the Vision 2026 Conference: “State of the Business Community,” including sponsorships and details, please contact the Gwen Chandarlis at gwen@laredochamber.com.
