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Posted: 10/22/25

LEDC Economic Development Industry Awards Honor Sharp, TAMIU, Flint Development, B.P. Newman, De Anda Families

 

Former Chancellor John Sharp
Former Chancellor John Sharp  

The Laredo Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) has announced the recipients of its Economic Development Industry Awards to be presented at its annual Boots ’n Bling Gala, Friday, Oct. 17 from 7 – 12 midnight at The Barn/Los Patios Event Center.

Recipients are John Sharp, former Chancellor of The Texas A&M University System; Texas A&M International University, represented by its president, Dr. Christopher Maynard; Flint Development, and the B.P. Newman and De Anda families.

Event sponsors include Killam Development, IBC/Commerce Bank, Jackson Walker, LLP, B.P. Newman, PNC Bank, and TAMIU. Gold sponsors are SitePro Rentals, AEP Texas, and Medline Industries.

The annual EDI awards were established in 2018 to recognize Laredo area industries, institutions, and individuals/families that significantly contribute to the growth and improvement of the Laredo community.

David Stedman, President & CEO of the LEDC, shared his excitement about this year's honorees.

"We've got an all-star line-up this year. Former A&M Chancellor John Sharp and TAMIU were selected by our nominating committee for their ongoing contributions to the quality of life and economic vitality of the Greater Laredo Region. Chancellor Sharp, as the 14th Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, Texas Comptroller, and Railroad Commissioner, has set a model of service for Texans.

Dr. Christopher Maynard, TAMIU
President

“TAMIU has also greatly benefited the City of Laredo and transforms the lives of 9,000+ students each year. With a Gross Regional Product of $374 million and the creation of 6,300 jobs, TAMIU continues to have a significant economic influence in our city," Stedman noted.

“The B.P. Newman and De Anda families are being recognized for their ongoing contributions to the Laredo community, furthering the organization's core mission and enhancing the overall quality of life and economic vitality of the Greater Laredo Region through their real estate and industrial developments, as well as their community contributions via the Popeye's franchise.

Eric Gromacki and Flint Development, LLC will be honored for the Project of The Year, the Port Laredo Logistics Center,which has introduced over 900,000 square feet of quality industrial space to Laredo, contributing jobs and capital investment to the local economy.

"Thanks to leaders like these, Laredo's future looks promising. It is our pleasure, on behalf of the LEDC Board of Directors,to honor this year's incredible slate of honorees," Steadman concluded.

Dr. Maynard, TAMIU’s new president, said he’s honored to accept the award on behalf of TAMIU.

“Texas A&M International University is a nationally ranked, regionally focused University with a rich and proud history of delivering transformative educational opportunities that change the trajectory of its students, their families, and South Texas. We’re honored to be recognized for the impactful force delivered daily by our gifted faculty and our committed administration and staff,” Dr. Maynard said.

For more about the LEDC, call 956.722.0563, or visit laredo.edc.org

About TAMIU

Texas A&M International University is a nationally ranked, regionally focused University with a rich and proud history of delivering transformative educational opportunities that change the trajectory of its students, their families, and South Texas. Its impactful force is delivered daily by a gifted and global faculty leading 55-degree programs at bachelors, masters, and doctoral levels...all on a dynamic 300-acre residential campus.

More of the University's story is available across its social channels on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, YouTube, and its website, tamiu.edu.

University news can also be found on its dedicated NewsHub.

Photo of TAMIU President Maynard with former Chancellor Sharp
Dr. Christopher Maynard, TAMIU President  (left) and John Sharp, former Texas A&M University System Chancellor, are shown with their Laredo Development Corporation LEDC Industry Awards.