BSWP Message from the Chair & Program of Work
Hon. Dr. Carrie F. Gordon, Serving as the 38th Chair of the Best Southwest Partnership.
Thank you for the opportunity to lead our organization as we continue to make indelible marks in the region and state.
PERSONAL ASPIRATION:
WE ARE THE REGION OF CHOICE, NOW AND TOMORROW!
OUR VISION: To be a thriving region for future generations.
OUR MISSION: To unite communities under shared economic growth objectives, uplifting the region together.
THE REGION OF CHOICE (NOW AND TOMORROW)
It is quite evident that this organization is built on a solid foundation, with dedicated individuals working together to ensure that its vision and mission are respected and cultivated—attesting to our longevity since 1986.
What fascinated me about the organization was the synergy witnessed the moment I walked through the door, and it’s still prevalent today.
Our partnership is far more than just a collection of communities; it’s a dynamic, interconnected network of people, businesses, and organizations united by a shared vision for growth and prosperity in Southern Dallas County and Northern Ellis County.
Whether it’s:
- strengthening our Workforce
- expanding Economic opportunities
- improving Education
- enhancing Transportation
- ensuring accessible Healthcare
- advocating for effective Legislation
Our Core Initiatives - Standing Committees
EDUCATION - Honorable Chad McCurdy, Chair
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Administer the Mayoral Scholarship & the Richard S. Pittmon Scholarship programs
- Explore how BSWP can support College to Career opportunities within the region
- Identify ways to better align capacity with needs of the community
- Opportunity for BSWP Partnership to Use its Bully Pulpit to
- Promote and communicate existing opportunities that may not be known
- Educate the community on the value of vocational and technical education
- Assist in the recruitment of mentors for students
WORKFORCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Dr. Joe Seabrooks & Hon. Carrie Gordon, Co-Chairs
- Develop a comprehensive list of workforce resources for all the cities, EDC, etc. to share with current and future employers
- Work with education partners to define a workforce pathway based on the needs of the employer
- Connect with employers who need a trained skilled workforce
- Work closer with Dallas Regional Chamber and be a key partner to address Mayor’s Southern Dallas Project
Transportation - Hon. Stephen Mason, Chair
- Bullet train – assessment of positive/negative effects of region and how to increase positive opportunities
- Provide updates and possible action items on pending and in-process transportation projects that directly or indirectly affect the region
- DART/STAR Discussions – continue information gathering/initial feasibility and hold meeting with Mayors
- Assist in planning of luncheon including Identifying a speaker for Transportation Luncheon
HEALTHCARE - Dr. Joyce Tapley, Chair
- Revisit BSWP cities healthcare data in order to identify commonalities in healthcare needs
- Identify and communicate possible existing resources and shared partnerships for addressing the healthcare needs
- Begin meaningful mental health discussion for BSWP region
- Plan for an annual event, may or may not coincide with luncheon
Our Special Committees
Marketing & Branding - Kenneth Govan & Michael Quildon, Co Chairs
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Research which industries match up well with the strengths and capabilities of each member city
- What types of businesses would be attractive to each city and that would fit that city well?
- What industries are common between two or more cities
- What companies make up these “sweet spot” industries?
- Are these companies expanding or relocating?
- Where are these companies to be found, and approached?
- Trade magazines
- Trade shows and conferences
- By the internet
- Government resources
- Create a targeted promotional program to pursue “sweet spot” industries/companies and go where they might be found (on-going)
- Broaden visibility of the BSW Partnership by joining local, state and national organizations
- Help to promote all key BSW programs and events (RED Luncheon, Legislative Series, etc.) as needed
Governmental/Legislative Affairs – Kenneth Govan, Chair
- Plan and communicate the August Legislative Series
- Update BSW on pertinent legislative activity that affects the region; especially those related to our Core Initiatives