Communities don't move forward on momentum alone. They move forward because people choose to lead. Whether it's investing in healthcare, strengthening our visitor economy, planning for future growth or helping students succeed, leadership takes many forms. This month, we're highlighting the people and organizations shaping Central Texas, including Sharon Vigil, CEO of Communities In Schools of Central Texas, whose commitment to students and families exemplifies the kind of leadership that strengthens our region.

The journey for families with a newborn doesn't end when they leave the hospital. Ongoing support, connection and moments of celebration can make all the difference.

This month, St. David’s Medical Center welcomed Arch Manning, along with offensive linemen Dylan Sikroski and Jackson Christian, for a special visit with newborns in the hospital’s Level IV Maternal Care Center, and an event with former patients treated in the hospital’s Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

The event reflects St. David's HealthCare’s commitment to supporting families and building connections that strengthen both patients and the broader Central Texas community.

Read the full story ▶

Visitors don't just fill hotel rooms. They help keep many of Austin's favorite restaurants, live music venues and local businesses open, while supporting jobs across the region. The success of those businesses depends on Austin remaining a destination people want to visit. A recent Austin Business Journal profile featuring Visit Austin CEO Tom Noonan examines how investments in the hospitality industry, including the Austin Convention Center and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, are helping ensure the region remains competitive for visitors, conventions and major events.

As competition for talent, businesses and major events continues nationwide, tourism isn't just an economic driver—it's an investment in the businesses, experiences and quality of life that make Central Texas a place people want to visit, work and call home.

Read the full story ▶

Austin City Council recently approved a significant milestone for the Dog’s Head development in Southeast Austin, moving forward one of the largest mixed-use developments currently planned in the region.

The project could bring more than 6.5 miles of hike and bike trails along the Colorado River, public access to the river, thousands of new homes, retail, restaurants, entertainment and commercial development, with Amazon identified as the project's first major tenant. This development would not only reshape Southeast Austin but also strengthen the city's tax base, support essential public services and create new opportunities for jobs and long-term economic growth.

Read the full story ▶

Celebrating Women Leading the Region

Every year, the Austin Business Journal recognizes women whose leadership is strengthening organizations, driving innovation and making a lasting impact across Central Texas.

We're proud to have partnered with several of this year’s honorees and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.

• Cheryl Katon, Emancipet

• AnnMarie Kocher, HumanN

• Yael Lawson, Workforce Solutions Capital Area

• KC Pospisil, Concordia University Texas

• Jackie Sekiguchi, Texas Mutual Insurance Company

View the full list of finalists here ▶

This month’s Connector Playlist comes from Sharon Vigil, CEO of Communities In Schools of Central Texas, whose passion for students, families and public education continues to strengthen communities across Central Texas.

"This playlist is a reflection of where I've been and what has shaped me. It's rooted in culture, history, rhythm and movement, with songs that tell stories of resilience, identity and connection. Every track carries a memory, a lesson or a piece of the journey that continues to inspire who I am today."

🎧 Listen to Sharon's Connector Playlist ▶

Every story in this month's newsletter points to the same idea: communities don't grow by chance. They grow because leaders invest in people, strengthen partnerships and make decisions with the future in mind.

We'll continue sharing the stories, leaders and ideas shaping Central Texas—one conversation at a time.