Second Annual Gathering of Central Texas Leaders
December 9th, 2024 | Round Rock TX
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
An Invitation-Only Event
Central Texas Catalyst Summit
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Uniting leaders in the six-county region who are engaged in addressing policy challenges impacting business, government and non-profit institutions and communities.
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Review results of a recent study that explores the Austin-San Antonio super region's challenges and opportunities based on input from over 300 leaders and stakeholders.
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A day of interactive seminars, thought provoking speakers and networking to explore how we can work collaboratively to move the needle forward for our region.
The Region
- Bastrop County
- Burnet County
- Caldwell County
- Hays County
- Travis County
- Williamson County
Program
Keynote - 8:30am
On Collaboration
Tim Jackson, Round Rock Express General Manager
Welcome - 9:00am
Remarks
Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan and AARO Board Chair Jeffrey Richard
Research Unveiling - 9:30am
Leadership Priorities for the Austin - San Antonio Mega Region
Breakout Sessions - 11:00am
Collaboration and Innovation in Central Texas Projects
Housing Central Texas, Successful Education Pipelines, Advancing Regional Growth Through Mobility Innovation, and Securing Future Water Supplies Through Collaboration
Catalyst Award Presentation - 12:30pm
Honoring a Family of Catalysts - The Avery Family
A "fireside chat" with John Avery, Sr., Nelson Avery and Larry Gonzales
Breakout Sessions - 1:20pm
Let's Talk Regionalism, Leadership and the Long-Term
Leadership During Crisis, Bridging the Funding Gap, Shaping the Future, and Acting Regionally
Bringing It All Together - 2:20pm
Synthesizing A Day of Data, Discussions and Dialogue
Collaboration Leading the Way - 2:45pm
Two Guys on Your Head – The Collaborative Brain
Dr. Bob Duke and Rebecca McInroy
Idea Swap -3:30pm
Reception
Confirmed Speakers
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Dr. Bob Duke
Professor of Music & Clinical Professor at Dell Medical School University of Texas at Austin -
Steven Pedigo
Assistant Dean and Executive Director, LBJ Urban Lab, and Professor of Practice The University of Texas at Austin -
Heidi Ross, P.E., P.T.O.E.
Strategic Planning Manager Network Modeling Center, Center for Transportation Research, The University of Texas at Austin
2024 Catalyst Award
The Avery Family: Charles Avery; John Avery Sr.; Dr. Nelson Avery; Christina Avery Fell
Tracing their roots to some of the earliest settlers in the region, the Averys cultivated the land for five generations while fostering a deep tradition of community care. Tireless advocates for education, healthcare, and community development, the Averys have transformed the region through strategic land donations and partnerships with institutions such as ACC, Texas State University, Texas State Technical College, Texas A&M, and Seton. Their efforts culminated in the creation of the Round Rock Higher Education Center, which has expanded access to medical education and healthcare while driving economic growth and reshaping the trajectory of Northern Central Texas.
The family’s philanthropic spirit extends far beyond infrastructure. Their commitment to empowering individuals—through initiatives like Capital IDEA and equine therapy programs for people with disabilities—demonstrates their steadfast belief in the transformative power of community investment.
Join us in celebrating the Avery Family’s enduring legacy as regional catalysts, whose vision and generosity continue to inspire a brighter and more equitable future for Central Texas.
2024 Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Regional Champion
Reception Sponsor
Catalyst Summit Award Sponsor
Breakout Sponsors
Regional Partners
In-Kind Sponsors
2023 Catalyst Summit
The inaugural Catalyst Summit was a great success. More than 150 Central Texas leaders were inspired in their roles as catalysts for important work in their communities.
Event summary and presentations from the inaugural summit
