Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The day of September 15th is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively.

Hispanic Heritage Month is important at Port Houston because it honors the achievements and contributions of Hispanic American champions, who have inspired others to achieve success. We recognize that Hispanic/Latinx people make up a significant portion of our region’s population, enriching the culture of the greater Houston area with traditions, diverse origins and unique perspectives. We celebrate the innumerable contributions of Hispanic/Latinx leaders, authors, artists, politicians, doctors, activists, mothers, fathers and more, this month and beyond.

Understanding Hispanic/Latinx Identity

Although the national recognition of “Hispanic Heritage Month” does not specifically include related terms like “Latino” or “Mexican,” understanding the multifaceted nature of these identities is important. These terms refer to ethnicity, origin, and identity, based on shared culture rather than skin color or other physical features.

1. Hispanic: Typically refers to a citizen or descendent of Spain or a Spanish-speaking country. This is primarily a reference to the shared language of Spanish, so country of origin can vary. A person from Mexico and a person from Chile may both refer to themselves as Hispanic.
2. Latino/Latina/Latinx: Typically refers to a citizen or descendant of Latin America, including South America, Central America and some parts of the Caribbean. As illustrated in the graphic above, there is overlap between Hispanic and Latinx identities, because the language and geography overlap. It is also worth noting that “Latino” and “Latina” are gendered terms for male and female, respectively, while “Latinx” is used as a gender-neutral term.
3. You may also encounter the term “Chicano,” which is sometimes used to refer to someone born in the United States to Mexican parents or grandparents. “Mexican” can also refer to a descendent or citizen of Mexico, just like “Guatemalan” would refer to a descendent or citizen of Guatemala.

If you are ever unsure what term to use, it’s best to ask the person what their preference is. This can help you avoid an awkward moment and give you a chance to learn about another person’s heritage!

Regional & Historical Fun Facts

• Greater Houston is home to one of the nation’s largest Hispanic populations, numbering more than 2.3 million people (38%) throughout the region.
• Latinos comprise 35% of the Houston metro-area labor force, holding 62% of jobs in construction, extraction and maintenance, 47% in service, and 45% in production and transportation.
• Mexican-American residents of Magnolia Park worked on dredging the Houston Ship Channel in the early 1910’s. The important role Mexican Americans played in deepening the Channel allowed larger cargo ships to enter the port.
• Hispanic/Latinx employees make up 27% of Port Houston’s workforce currently.

How to Honor Hispanic Heritage Month

…With your mind:Read more about why we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and Hispanic/Latinx influences in American culture: National Hispanic American Heritage Month 2021 (hispanicheritagemonth.gov)

Hispanic Heritage Month: 8 Latinos Who Influenced American Life – NBC4 Washington (nbcwashington.com)
12 Ways Hispanic Culture Is Changing America (spanish.academy)

…With your time: There are TONS of events happening around Houston in honor of HHM, from festivals and interactive art to concerts and pop-up markets. Check out this list to find one in your neck of the woods:
2022 Houston Guide to Hispanic Heritage Month Events | 365 Houston (365thingsinhouston.com)

…With your food: There is no question that Hispanic/Latinx culture has a major influence on our region’s cuisine. Check out this list to find a new favorite eatery close to work or home:
Our Guide to Latin American Eats in Houston (visithoustontexas.com)

“In the end, the American dream is not a sprint, or even a marathon, but a relay. Our families don’t always cross the finish line in the span of one generation. But each generation passes on to the next the fruits of their labor.”
– Julian Castro, Former United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

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Port Houston employees have made everything possible this year even as the supply chain continues to see record high demand. Port Houston knows the value of its people and continues to make investments into their futures with training, succession planning, organizational development and more. In this blog, we highlight some of longest tenured employees to see how they have progressed in their careers and why they enjoy working at Port Houston.

YOLANDA “NESSIE” RAMIREZ-FRANCIS – FINANCIAL ACCOUNTANT

Nessie Ramirez-Francis is celebrating her 44th work anniversary at Port Houston in August 2022. She began her career at Port Houston in August 1978 as a Manifest Clerk before moving to and helping start the Accounting department. She has spent most of her tenure in the Accounting department helping with financial analysis, financial planning, accounts payable, special projects and more. In her current role, she is responsible for collecting, tracking, and reporting finances for the Executive Division and Financial Division.

During her time at the port, Nessie has witnessed many changes in business and technology. She has helped with the installment of three different financial softwares and even witnessed the first desktop computers being installed at the port. What keeps her going is the awesome people she works with everyday.  

TOM HEIDT – CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Tom Heidt celebrated 40 years at Port Houston in early 2022. He began his career at Port Houston on January 13, 1982 and it’s safe to say he’s done a little bit of everything. Heidt spent his first 11 years at Port Houston crunching numbers in the Accounting department.

Eventually, Heidt transferred to the Trade Development Division, now known as the Commercial Division, where he spent more than 12 years as Market Research Manager and Market Development Manager followed by four years overseeing the container terminal development in the Operations Division.

After more than 20 years at Port Houston, Heidt’s career led him to the Chief Financial Officer position, which he held for six years. Currently, he serves as the Chief Operating Officer, and the divisions he oversees include Commercial, Port Operations, Infrastructure, Safety, Security, Environmental, IT, and Finance.

“My main purpose over the past 40 years has always been to try and make Port Houston a better place,” Heidt said. “And my number one goal is to try and pass my knowledge on, as I want Port Houston to be even more successful in the next 40 years.”

CAROLYN ASHLEY – DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT & ENGAGEMENT

Carolyn Ashley is coming up on her 41st work anniversary at Port Houston in August 2022. She began her career as a secretary at Port Houston on August 12, 1981 shortly after moving to Houston. Her hard work and devotion to the company speaks for itself as she was promoted to World Trade Center Supervisor in 1986 where she served for five years.

Ashley has worn plenty of hats during her time at Port Houston. Some of her other titles include Real Estate Coordinator, Manager of Office Services, Employee Relations Manager, Training and Development Manager, Senior Manager of Learning and Organizational Development and Talent/Organizational Development Senior Business Partner.

After recognizing her true passion was the development of Port Houston employees in 2014, Ashley moved into the role of Manager of Organizational Training and Development. In November 2019 she was promoted to Director of Employee Development and Engagement where she currently serves.

“I had a one-year plan that worked out to be 40 one-year plans so far,” Ashley said. “Working at Port Houston has been challenging but rewarding. I wouldn’t want to have spent my career anywhere else.”

KENT STILLWELL – PORT POLICE OFFICER

Kent Stillwell celebrated 40 years at Port Houston in March 2022. Officer Stillwell started working at the Port in January of 1982, but his journey in Public Service began in 1979, when he first served as a Texas Commissioned Security Officer after graduating from the University of Houston-Downtown Law Enforcement Academy (Class # 72). When he joined Port Houston, Officer Stillwell earned several awards, including the Port Houston Police Department Life Saving Award, the Safe Driver Award and Officer of the Quarter. He played a key role in moving the department forward in using technology for Police and Dispatch services, when they received new computers to replace older surplus equipment.

Officer Stillwell retired in March 2022 and is enjoying using his time to practice hobbies like photography, astronomy, reading and music.

DOUG MIMS – SENIOR CAPTAIN OF THE M/V SAM HOUSTON

Doug Mims celebrated 35 years at Port Houston in May 2022. His career at Port Houston began in the Fire Department in 1987. He was promoted to Pilot on the M/V Sam Houston tour boat and has been a key leader on this team ever since. As Senior Captain of the Sam Houston crew, Doug leads his team in providing free tours to the public. The past few years have been unique with the boat tour closed during the pandemic, but Doug has continued to support the growth of his crew as they prepare to lead tours without him in the future.

Although Doug is retiring this year, he will be missed at the Sam Houston boat tour pavilion. In retirement, Doug plans to do a lot of surfing, building computers for gaming, watching zombie movies and spending time with family.

PATRICIA RAMSEY – PSEO PROGRAM MANAGER

Patricia Ramsey celebrated 18 years at Port Houston in May 2022. Trish started at Port Houston in 2004 as a secretary in the Planning & Environment Department but moved to PSEO division shortly thereafter. She has served as a “super admin” since joining the PSEO group, taking on increasing levels of responsibility over the years. Patricia has led the ISO 28000 (Supply Chain Security) Program from its inception at Port Houston and is still asked to speak globally on the topic. She is also certified as a PMP (Project Management Professional) and has used this expertise to assist several departments with project management. In 2020, Patricia was redesignated as PSEO Program Manager, overseeing all budgeting, projects, and contracts for the division.

Patricia retired in May 2022 and plans to build a house in Canada, which will serve as her summer home.

OTHER PORT HOUSTON RETIREES IN 2021 & 2022

• Donald W. Miller – 1st Class Electrician – 44 years
• Robert D. Waller – Foreman RTG Wharf Electrical – 43 years
• Kathleen M. Swift – Customer Billing Services Analyst – 41 years
• Randall K. Pugh – Tradesman II – 39 years
• Rudolph J. Lechuga – RTG Wharf Mechanic – 34 years
• Maria A. Lewis-Miller – Inventory Specialist – 32 years
• Douglas E. Johnson – 1st Class RTG Wharf Mechanic – 31 years
• Edward W. Fouts – RTG Wharf Mechanic – 29 years
• Charles B. McCary – Police Sergeant – 28 years
• Carol A. Neidert – Logistics Lead Yard Planner – 26 years
• Eric P. LeBeaux – Tradesman IV – 26 years
• Jeffrey B. Best – Tradesman IV – 26 years 
• Diana K. Robbins – Gate Operations Supervisor – 25 years
• Jerry L. Matheson – 1st Class RTG Wharf Mechanic – 25 years
• Kevin T. Keena – Equipment Shop Mechanic – 25 years
• Milton P. Mifflin – RTG Wharf Mechanic – 25 years
• Ricky C. Murray – Foreman RTG Wharf Electrical – 25 years

Although these are just some of the many port employee stories, the Port Houston team is grateful for all current and retired employees who have served diligently and evolved in their career with us. To learn more about careers at Port Houston, visit www.porthouston/careers-2/.

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Kerrick Henny, Chief Government & Public Relations Officer at Port Houston, states “Juneteenth marks a date of major significance in American history and represents the ways in which freedom for Black people have been delayed. It is a reminder that “nobody is free until everybody is free” It should be celebrated as the day when all Americans were liberated and created equal. It should be a day to reflect, to learn, and grow as a nation and as a people.”

Ric Campo, Chairman of the Port Commission of the Port Houston Authority, states “This holiday is not only important to Texans, but is important to all Americans…we are grateful for it becoming law and receiving the recognition it has long deserved.”

At Port Houston, we recently adopted Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as part of our core values. We recognize that as a leader of commerce and economic activity in the most diverse city in the U.S. we have a responsibility to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the region. Port Houston is commemorating Juneteenth by hosting a celebration recognizing the importance of this national holiday. The celebration intends to spread awareness of Juneteenth's history and highlight the significance it has in people’s lives.

History of Juneteenth

Juneteenth is the longest-running African American holiday and it commemorates June 19th, 1865; when General Gordon Granger led 2,000 Union troops to Galveston Bay announcing the 250,000 enslaved people of Texas to be free. This is two years following the emancipation proclamation. Which was signed by Abraham Lincoln on January 1st, 1863, declaring the enslavement of people in Confederate states to be illegal. However, after the Emancipation proclamation was made effective in 1863, not all Confederate territory was immediately freed. The Union army did not have enough strength in the westernmost Confederate states to enforce the newly declared proclamation. Texas being one of the last states to be financially dependent on slavery, it was not until two and a half years later that Texas was no longer financially dependent on slaves.

 “The two and half years it took for slaves in Texas to learn of their freedom shows us that freedom and equality for all people in this land are bedrock principles of the US Constitution. However, it also reminds us that change is not instant, and progress is earned by those who remain vigilant,” states Derek L. Garret, Project and Construction Manager at Port Houston.

Port Houston and Juneteenth

Juneteenth has always been an important part of U.S. history but has just recently received congressional recognition and acknowledgment for its role in shaping this nation. It also presents an opportunity to instill learning for generations to come. 

“Unlike Independence Day, Juneteenth is a day for celebration because it recognizes when all Americans were liberated, free, and created equal. It’s important to recognize its place in our history and reflect on the long struggle by many for equal rights and how far we have to go. In honor of this holiday, I encourage everyone to take the time to reflect and gain a better understanding of our past so that we can come together for a brighter future,” states Jessica Shaver, Chief People Officer at Port Houston.

Port Houston aims to move the world and drive regional prosperity. Through our mission, we are dedicated to support the communities we serve and begin by ensuring employees feel heard and represented in the initiatives the port champions. Through this workplace celebration, the port has an opportunity to bring awareness and create a space for conversation that further drives diversity and equity in the workplace.

Maria Aguirre, Director of Community Relations at Port Houston, states “To me, the port celebrating Juneteenth means that we can collectively heal from the wounds of the past and move towards a future where we are all excepted and included.”

 more Information:

To learn more about Juneteenth, and the various celebrations happening in Houston, visit:

TSHA | Juneteenth (tshaonline.org)

Juneteenth events: Where to celebrate in Houston, Galveston | khou.com

The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth | National Museum of African American History and Culture (si.edu)

Miller Outdoor Theatre | Wells Fargo Presents Juneteenth: The Journey To Freedom

https://epconservancy.org/

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Pride Month is important at Port Houston because it honors the historical and ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights, recognizes the humanity and validity of the LGBTQ+ community, and demonstrates the power and importance of being your authentic self. We recognize that Houston has the largest LGBTQ+ population of any city in the state of Texas, and it is essential for Port Houston to create an environment of acceptance for LGBTQ+ people in our workforce and community.

“Celebrating Pride Month is a way to honor those that have sacrificed so much, just to freely be themselves. It’s important to acknowledge PRIDE Month, here at Port Houston, because we want our LGBTQ+ to be celebrated, to feel included, and to feel at home. More importantly, we want to educate our workforce on some of the issues this community faces daily and hold our ourselves accountable to do the work and make a change,” states Ashley Cheatham, Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Port Houston.

“Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) Pride Month is celebrated each year in the month of June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. The Stonewall Uprising was a tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States… The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.” – Library of Congress

You can read the 2022 Presidential Declaration here

History, Symbols & Celebration of Pride

Stonewall Uprising of 1969

In June of 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn gay club in New York City, sparking violent clashes as bar patrons and onlookers fought back against law enforcement. On the first anniversary of the raid, to build on this spirit of resilience, thousands of people joined in a march from the Stonewall Inn to Central Park, in what is now recognized as the world’s first gay pride parade. This day of remembrance sparked annual observances and weeks-long celebrations in the following years. In 2000, President Bill Clinton declared June “Gay and Lesbian Pride Month”.

Rainbow Flag

In 1978, gay artist Gilbert Baker was encouraged to design a symbol of pride for the gay community by Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the U.S., Baker chose to design a flag because he saw flags as the most powerful symbol of pride. Inspired by the rainbow as a “natural flag” from the sky, Baker chose six colors for the stripes, each with its own meaning: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony and violet for spirit.

Pride in Houston

Houston is home to the fourth largest pride parade in the nation, with more than 200,000 participants in the annual event. This year, the 44th annual Houston Pride Celebration will take place in downtown Houston on Saturday, June 25th. Read more: https://pridehouston.org/

Progress Can’t be Contained…

In the spring of 2021, Maersk sent two rainbow-painted containers on a world tour to represent their commitment to inclusion and diversity. When one of these bold boxes made a stop at Port Houston, a handful of team members took a moment to sign their names inside, demonstrating their personal commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

This month, as we focus on inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community, it is important to recognize both the strides we have made as a nation and the miles still to go on the journey towards acceptance. Consider the following stats:

• 54% of LGBTQ+ Americans have hidden a personal relationship to avoid discrimination
• Only 46% of gay, lesbian and bisexual individuals are open about their sexual orientation with their family, and 43% of LGBTQ+ employees have not revealed their sexual orientation at work
• Other Quick Facts about Texas LGBTQ+ community

At Port Houston, as we continue our journey towards becoming America’s distribution hub for the next generation, we are committed to making the next generation kinder and more accepting than the last – striving to do what is right within our organization and throughout our community.

How to Honor Pride Month

Through education

Pride month is a perfect time to focus on educating ourselves. Take some time this month to read about the history, challenges and dynamics of the LGBTQ+ population in America. https://www.history.com/tag/lgbt-history https://www.americanprogress.org/article/state-lgbtq-community-2020/

Through allyship

You don’t have to identify as LGBTQ+ to support the movement. Like gender-based movements, having allies of all different backgrounds is important to progress and necessary to see change. Check out some basic tips and resources on how to be a good ally and friend to LGBTQ+ people. https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/relationships-love/a28159555/how-to-be-lgbtq-ally/

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Maersk’s rainbow container made its way around the world to Port Houston’s Barbours Cut Container Terminal. This colorful container has served as a symbol of equity, inclusion and diversity where all employees, partners, and customers feel welcomed and can be themselves without judgment or fear.

The container not only serves as a symbol for Maersk, but also the entire maritime industry. The maritime industry has historically been a predominantly male world, but the industry is seeing more women and minorities entering the maritime workforce. According to the Diversity Study Group in London, employers are embracing the benefits of DEI data to support decision-making and respond to the growing importance of DEI issues.

As an international port in the most diverse city in the U.S., Port Houston has a duty to encourage and stimulate diversity, equity and inclusion in the maritime industry. In May of 2021, Port Houston formalized its commitment by officially adopting a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Position Statement. Additionally, DEI was formally established as a key priority for Port Houston with the adoption of the 2020 Strategic Plan providing direction for the entire organization.

Tom Heidt, Port Houston Chief Operating Officer, states that from his perspective, diversity can develop naturally as you strive for inclusion. He is challenging himself to intentionally bring more and different perspectives to the table, and he reminded everyone that we can all ask if we want to be included in something.

One of Port Houston’s strategic goals is to become “the best place to work.” Creating the right environment is a must to attract the specialized talent required by our multifaceted operations. A workplace culture that supports the success, psychological safety and professional confidence of every individual is the ultimate goal.

Kerrick Henny, Port Houston's Chief Government & Public Relations Officer, states that as a black man growing up two miles from the port, he recognizes that fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace is not only morally right but also great for our business. A culture of DEI means every employee is supported, accepted, respected and safe at work, which leads to greater morale and results.

Port Houston has a tremendous opportunity to be an agent of positive change in our region and beyond, and we are grabbing that opportunity.

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Caption: Jennifer Williams-Alcia

Jennifer Williams-Alcia’s career path at Port Houston has blossomed since she started working as an intern at the port in 2015. Today, she is a full-time employee – a mechanic, and also an ambassador, on the Port’s popular Sam Houston Boat Tour.

While the New York native had always wanted to be a veterinarian, that changed after she saw an advertisement for maritime education and became interested in being a merchant mariner. “The more I read on mariners, the more I learned about the industry,” she said. That led to her eventually applying to maritime programs, getting accepted to San Jacinto College and moving to Texas. She graduated from San Jacinto College’s Maritime Transportation Program in 2016 and began working at Port Houston full-time soon after that. Since those early days, she had her eyes set on a career in the maritime industry.

“Since working for Port Houston, my career has skyrocketed,” said Williams-Alcia. “Within a short amount of time, I was given the opportunity to advance from a deckhand to a mechanic, and I am on track to getting my captain’s license.”

The training to obtain her 500-ton Captain’s license requires rigorous testing as well as fulfilling numerous sea hours. Since the Sam Houston Boat Tour is itself an educational operation, Williams-Alcia had a uniquely holistic perspective on the importance of maritime education when she was asked to participate in the “Roundtable for Infrastructure” with U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and U.S. Representatives Sylvia Garcia and Sheila Jackson Lee. She was invited to participate in the roundtable by San Jacinto College Chancellor Brenda Hellyer and Professor Amy Arrowood to share her perspective as a maritime student and professional.

“Being able to participate on the infrastructure roundtable with the highly-respected public officials was a great honor,” said Williams-Alcia.  “I felt incredibly grateful to have been included in such an important discussion. I was in awe to see how different organizations can work together to help each other and benefit the industry,” she noted.

Even though the Sam Houston Boat Tour is temporarily closed due to COVID-19, Port Houston has a virtual tour video that you can watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FE_RHOBnnGE. This video shows waterway activity during normal tour operations.

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Caption: Quintin Reynolds

It takes a lot of hands to move cargo across Port Houston’s docks, including the maintenance staff, who support Port Houston’s equipment and assets. One of the essential Port employees working on the front lines throughout the COVID-19 pandemic is Quintin Reynolds, a maintenance foreman at the Barbours Cut Container Terminal, who recently received recognition for 45 years of service at Port Houston.

Reynolds and his department is responsible for maintaining daily equipment readiness for 15 ship-to-shore (STS) cranes at the facility. These cranes are some of the Port’s critical operational assets and are the primary maritime industry equipment for loading and unloading containers. The job can be challenging – the number one goal of the maintenance department is to keep downtime at the terminal to a minimum. In this high tempo work environment, Port Houston strives to maintain a 15-minute repair rate and 99 percent crane uptime.

It’s a job Reynolds takes seriously. “Being an essential employee during these unprecedented times is an honor. Maintenance plays a vital role in operations at Port Houston to keep our supply chains moving,” said Reynolds.

In his 45 years of experience working for Port Houston, he’s never experienced a world-wide situation like COVID-19, he noted. “It’s a severe concern, and Port Houston has quickly mitigated the potential issues and allowed for business to continue under these circumstances,” said Reynolds. “I’m proud to be a part of this team and contribute to the greater community that relies on us.”

Reynolds joined the Port in 1975 as a laborer assigned to the Public Grain Elevator and advanced up the ladder quickly in the maintenance department to become a millwright. After 17 years at the Turning Basin terminal, he moved to the Barbours Cut Container Terminal and has been there ever since. During his career at Port Houston, Reynolds has participated in 13 container crane inspection trips to Asia, where the equipment is built. He has had the opportunity to see the cranes constructed, from the time they were pieces of steel plate to when they became finished products and were loaded for transport to Houston.

His son Bodie is also a foreman in the maintenance department at the Barbours Cut Container Terminal. “It is a father’s dream to watch my son evolve into a position that most aspire and do not obtain until several years of service,” said Reynolds. “It’s exciting to see my son follow in my footsteps.”

Reynolds was recognized at the January Port Commission meeting by Executive Director Roger Guenther and the Port Commission for his years of dedicated service. “I enjoy my work because it is not a routine job and no two days are the same,” he said. “Being a Port Houston employee means a lot to me. My job at the Port has given me a good income to provide for my family. Serving the Port for 45 years is by far one of my greatest achievements in my lifetime.”

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