Houston Maritime Center & Museum Celebrates Judge Emmett
The Houston Maritime Center & Museum (HMCM) is thrilled to announce its much-anticipated annual fundraising gala titled
Set Sail: Charting New Horizons. Scheduled for
March 12, 2026, at the esteemed
River Oaks Country Club, this year’s event will shine a light on the remarkable contributions of
Judge Ed Emmett, a long-time trustee of the museum and a prominent figure in public service.
Event Highlights
Under the co-chairmanship of
Vincent DiCosimo and
Ned Holmes, this inspiring evening aims not only to honor Judge Emmett but also to celebrate the completion of HMCM’s new facility. According to
Sara Howell, Chair of the Board of Trustees, "Every Houstonian values and respects the countless ways Judge Emmett has contributed to our city, our state, and our country. His vision and leadership have profoundly impacted our community."
Judge Emmett’s extensive experience includes a Fellowship in Energy and Transportation Policy at Rice University's Baker Institute and a notable tenure as Harris County Judge from 2007 to 2019. Under his leadership, the HMCM has flourished, playing an integral role in the successful launch of its new space. This event is set to raise essential funds for expanded educational programs, outreach initiatives, and staffing needs that will further HMCM’s mission of promoting maritime history, culture, and STEAM education in Houston.
Get Involved
Visitors are encouraged to explore the museum's new gallery and witness firsthand the stories that embrace Houston's rich maritime heritage.
Table sponsorships and individual tickets are available for purchase now, with a deadline for inclusion in the printed invitation set for
January 10, 2026.
Honoring a Distinguished Career
Judge Edward M. Emmett has enjoyed a multifaceted career with significant roles in government and the transportation sector. His accomplishments also include serving as a Commissioner at the Interstate Commerce Commission, and he has received numerous accolades for his commitment to logistics and transportation. These include awards such as “Transportation Person of the Year” and being recognized as one of the Top 20 Logistics Professionals by Logistics Forum.
Currently, Emmett chairs the
Texas Department of Transportation Freight Advisory Committee and remains a prominent voice in freight mobility and global supply chain resilience. His extensive educational background includes degrees from
Rice University and the
University of Texas at Austin, and he has proudly been awarded the
Distinguished Alumnus Award from Rice University.
As the
HMCM gears up for this momentous evening, we look forward to celebrating the legacy of Judge Ed Emmett alongside community members who appreciate his decades of dedicated service. This event promises to be both uplifting and memorable, providing an opportunity for the community to come together in support of a cause that not only honors maritime history but also invests in the future.
For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or further event details, contact the
Houston Maritime Center & Museum via phone at
(713) 389-5055 or visit
www.houstonmaritime.org. Join us on
March 12, 2026, to pay tribute to Judge Emmett and assist HMCM in navigating new horizons for future generations.