“Bright Ideas” program - Ash Center - Harvard University
The Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, recognized the Port of Houston Partners in Maritime Education as part of the 2015 Bright Ideas program. This year's cohort includes 124 programs from all levels of government--school districts; county, city, state, and federal agencies; as well as public-private partnerships--that are at the forefront in innovative government action. Since 2009, the Port of Houston Authority has been tackling the growing need for skilled maritime workers by organizing maritime academies at four area school districts at the high school level to introduce youth to maritime transportation systems and career pathways as mariners, and in shipbuilding and repair, and port operations.
Port of Houston Maritime Education Program Acclaimed
The Port of Houston Authority has been inducted into the Houston Independent School District Partnership 'Hall of Fame'. Gilda Ramirez, the port's Vice President, Small Business Development, accepted the award on behalf of the Port Authority. The award is presented to community partners for the exemplary services they provide to HISD students and recognizes such initiatives as partnerships, support for district-wide programs and sponsored special events that have a multiple school or district-wide impact and serve as a model for other partnerships.