Just shy of his first 100 days in office, Houston Mayor John Whitmire has adopted several approaches intended to improve the city's finances, public safety, infrastructure, mobility options, and delivery of services. On April 3, the Baker Institute will host a wide-ranging conversation with Whitmire on the challenges and opportunities facing the Bayou City, as well as the mayor’s plans to shape a vibrant and sustainable future for Houstonians.

This Director's Lecture Series event will feature an armchair discussion between Whitmire and Baker Institute fellow Edward M. Emmett, followed by a Q&A session. This event is free and open to the public; pre-registration is required.

Agenda

5:00 pm CDT — Introduction
5:05 pm CDT — Armchair Discussion 
5:45 pm CDT — Q&A Session

Participants

Welcome Remarks

The Honorable David M. Satterfield
Director, Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy; Janice and Robert McNair Chair in Public Policy; Former Ambassador to Lebanon and Turkey

Featured Speaker

The Honorable John Whitmire, former dean of the Texas Senate, was sworn into office as Houston's 63rd mayor on Jan. 2, 2024. He has served his community his entire adult life. When called on by the people of Houston to run for mayor, Whitmire accepted the challenge. With a wealth of experience working alongside nine mayors and seven governors, he possesses invaluable knowledge in public safety, infrastructure, and effective problem-solving. Whitmire's life experiences, unwavering dedication, and a proven track record in getting things done make him a true public servant committed to the well-being of Houstonians.

Moderator

Edward M. Emmett 
Fellow in Energy and Transportation Policy, Baker Institute; Chair, Texas Department of Transportation Freight Advisory Committee