President's Message

September 1, 2025

Dear SMPS Houston Members,

It is a true honor to serve as your Chapter President. Over my 20 years with SMPS, this organization has profoundly shaped my professional journey—through continuing education, leadership development, and a network of colleagues who’ve become lifelong friends. As a board, our mission is to ensure that every member experiences that same transformative value.

This summer, many of you shared your thoughts through our focus group and survey—thank you! Your feedback was clear, and we’re acting on it. We’re excited to bring back regular luncheon programs, enhance sponsorship benefits to better serve you and your firms, and explore the return of a local CPSM exam study group. We’re also committed to elevating our educational offerings and creating even more dynamic social and special events. Every initiative is designed with one goal in mind: to deepen the value of your SMPS membership.

If you’re looking to get more involved, I encourage you to consider joining a committee. Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to make the most of your membership. Whether your passion lies in programs, education, mentoring, communications, events, or sponsorship, we’ll work with you to find a role that fits your schedule and interests. Reach out to me or any board member—we’d love to welcome you aboard.

This year also marks a unique milestone for our chapter. SMPS is transitioning to a calendar-year fiscal schedule, which means our current board will serve a special 16-month term—our very own “Sweet 16”—through December 2026. You may notice some shifts in timing for annual traditions like board nominations, and we’ll be updating our chapter bylaws accordingly. Sponsorships already follow the calendar year, and your membership renewal dates will remain unchanged.

On behalf of the entire SMPS Houston Board of Directors, thank you for your continued support. We’re here for you—so if there’s anything we can do to help you grow, connect, or thrive, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Warmest regards,

Carmen Houston Ryan, CPSM
2025-2026 SMPS Houston President
 [email protected]