McALLEN, Texas — Reflecting on more than a quarter-century at the helm of one of South Texas’ most prominent business organizations, Cynthia M. Sakulenzki expressed immense gratitude for her tenure as President and CEO of the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Her sudden departure was announced late last week by Tom Castañeda, chair of the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
“Looking back over the last 26½ years, I am filled with immense gratitude for the opportunity to serve our vibrant community,” Sakulenzki told the RGG Business Journal.
“I have been incredibly fortunate to walk the halls of both our State and National Capitals, advocate alongside elected officials, and collaborate with CEOs of major corporations. But above all, the true highlight of my career has been the extraordinary people I’ve met along the way. I have built lifelong friendships with business leaders, community advocates, and incredible nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving small businesses and helping those in need.”
Sakulenzki, who has led the regional chamber since 2000, emphasized that her commitment to the region's economic and civic vitality will continue beyond her tenure.
“I will always be deeply grateful to the community members, board members, partners, and organizations who trusted me and worked alongside me to make a meaningful difference,” Sakulenzki added. “While this chapter comes to a close, my passion for community work remains as strong as ever. I eagerly look forward to starting a new chapter in my life where I can continue being of service to others.”
The announcement marks a significant leadership transition for the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, which serves small businesses, corporate partners, and economic development initiatives across the four-county Rio Grande Valley region—Hidalgo, Cameron, Starr, and Willacy counties.
In a press release issued by the organization, the chamber confirmed that it and Sakulenzki agreed to part ways as the group prepares to launch a executive search for its next chief executive.
Castañeda, chair of RGVHCC's board of directors, commended Sakulenzki for her decades of advocacy and service on behalf of the South Texas business community.
“Cynthia has given the Chamber and the Rio Grande Valley business community her heart and soul for more than a quarter century,” Castañeda said. “We are grateful for her many years of service and the contributions she made during her tenure. We wish Cynthia every success as she begins her next chapter.”
During the interim period, the chamber’s Board of Directors will directly oversee day-to-day operations to ensure organizational continuity. Chamber leadership affirmed that ongoing programs, member services, networking events, and regional economic advocacy efforts will proceed without interruption while the search committee conducts a broad recruitment process for a new CEO.
Castañeda underscored that the chamber remains firmly positioned to support South Texas' rapid industrial and commercial expansion.
“The Valley is at an exciting moment in its continued growth and development, and the Chamber remains focused on the future,” Castañeda noted. “We have a strong organization, a dedicated Board and an unwavering commitment to our mission of strengthening local businesses and professionals through networking, mentorship, education and economic development.”
Operating under its longtime motto, “Strength in Unity,” the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce maintains an extensive network of corporate sponsors, small business "Compadres," and civic stakeholders focused on advancing trade, professional connections, and leadership development across the South Texas border area, the group's press release stated.
