The Gala proceeds benefit the Chamber's program of work in our community which includes:

► Providing scholarships for deserving young women graduating from Aldine, Houston, Spring, and Spring Branch School Districts to attend a Texas college of their choice, and;
► The Chamber's Smart Start Program for Women Entrepreneurs, a program to help entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, stabilize and increase their incomes, create additional employment and contribute to the economic development of the Greater Houston area, and;
► STEAM Town USA, an initiative to increase exposure of third grade girls' interest in math and science through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math) concepts, improve grades and graduation rates, and encourage girls to pursue STEAM careers.

Arts & Culture
Distinctive achievement in the creation or performance, development, preservation, or patronage of the visual, literary or performing arts.
 
UBusiness, the Professions & Entrepreneurs
Distinctive achievement through leadership in management or administration in the private, entrepreneurial, or innovative endeavors.
 
UEducation & Training
Distinctive achievement in education, training and development, continuing education, or alternative learning programs.
 
UHealth & Wellness
Distinctive achievement in serving the emotional, physical or spiritual well-being of individuals or the community, through personal or professional service, leadership or education.
 
UPublic Service
Distinctive achievement through leadership and advocacy in management or administration in the public or not-for-profit sector.
UScience, Technology, Engineering or Math
Distinctive achievement through research, clinical, or applied expertise in the biological, physical or social sciences, medicine, technology, math, agriculture or the environment.
 
UVolunteer Community Service
Distinctive achievement as demonstrated by leadership or involvement in philanthropic or voluntary community programs of organizations.  Although nominees in this category may be employed in another field, selection is based on the voluntary work only.