United Way Speaker Series 2026: Welcoming John Sharp to Comal County
The United Way of Comal County is proud to continue its tradition of bringing influential leaders and meaningful conversations to our community through the annual Speaker Series. In 2026, we are honored to welcome John Sharp, former Chancellor of The Texas A&M University System, for an engaging and inspiring luncheon event. This special gathering is more than just a keynote—it is an opportunity to connect, learn, and invest in the future of Comal County.
Join us on Tuesday, May 19 at 11:30am at the McKenna Events Center in New Braunfels for a powerful conversation about leadership, innovation, and the role our community plays in building a stronger, more resilient future.
A Meaningful Event for a Stronger Community
The United Way Speaker Series is designed to inspire action and deepen understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our region. Events like this bring together local leaders, business professionals, and community members who share a common goal: creating a thriving Comal County where all individuals and families can succeed.
At United Way of Comal County, we believe that strong communities are built through collaboration, conversation, and local giving. The Speaker Series reflects this mission by creating a space where ideas are shared and connections are made—connections that lead to real impact through donations, workplace giving, and volunteer support.
About John Sharp: A Legacy of Leadership
John Sharp is widely recognized as one of the most impactful leaders in Texas higher education. As the longest-serving chancellor in the history of The Texas A&M University System, he spent 14 years transforming the institution into a nationally recognized leader in academics, research, and athletics.
During his tenure, Sharp led the establishment of the Texas A&M School of Law in Fort Worth and oversaw the development of the RELLIS campus—a 2,000-acre high-tech hub for defense research and innovation within the George H.W. Bush Combat Development Complex. His leadership helped elevate the university system’s reputation while expanding opportunities for students and communities across Texas.
Sharp’s commitment to service began long before his time as chancellor. A graduate of Texas A&M University, he served in the United States Army Reserve and went on to build a distinguished career in public service, including roles as a state legislator, senator, railroad commissioner, and comptroller. His decades of experience reflect a deep understanding of leadership, economic development, and community impact.
Why This Event Matters for Comal County
Events like the Speaker Series are more than informational—they are transformational. By bringing leaders like John Sharp to Comal County, United Way of Comal County provides valuable insight into the strategies and decisions that shape thriving communities.
For working individuals and families, understanding these broader perspectives helps connect local challenges to larger opportunities. It reinforces the importance of investing in financial security, supporting youth opportunity, building a healthy community, and strengthening community resiliency.
When we come together to learn and grow, we strengthen the foundation of our community. That is why events like this are essential to the mission that United Is The Way.
Connecting Leadership to Local Impact
While John Sharp’s experience spans decades and reaches across the state of Texas, the lessons he shares are deeply relevant to our local community. Leadership, innovation, and long-term planning are critical to addressing the everyday challenges faced by families in Comal County.
Through United Way of Comal County, those lessons translate into action. Whether it’s funding educational programs, supporting families in crisis, or building partnerships with local organizations, we take what we learn and turn it into meaningful change. This is how local giving becomes local impact.
An Opportunity to Get Involved
Attending the Speaker Series is just one way to engage with the mission of United Way of Comal County. This event also serves as a reminder that every individual has the power to make a difference. By participating in workplace giving, making donations, or volunteering, you can help create opportunities for families across our community.
The funds raised through events like this support programs that provide essential services—from education and mentoring to emergency assistance and health resources. These programs are designed to help families not only meet their immediate needs but also build a more stable and successful future.
Building a Future Where All Can Thrive
At its core, the Speaker Series reflects the vision of United Way of Comal County: a community where all individuals and families thrive. By bringing people together, sharing knowledge, and inspiring action, we are creating a pathway toward a stronger, healthier, and more resilient Comal County.
When you support United Way, you are supporting your neighbors. You are investing in children, families, and individuals who are working hard to build better lives. And you are helping ensure that our community continues to grow and succeed for generations to come.
Join Us and Be Part of the Impact
We invite you to join us for this special event and be part of a movement that is making a real difference in Comal County. The United Way Speaker Series featuring John Sharp is an opportunity to connect with others, gain valuable insight, and support a cause that directly impacts our community.
For more information, sponsorship tiers, and tickets, please visit uwcgtx.org/speaker-series.
Together, we can continue to build a future defined by opportunity, stability, and hope. Together, we can show that United Is The Way.
Click here to donate and help support programs that strengthen Comal County.
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