Silva: A Farewell and a New Beginning: Honoring the RGV Partnership and Embracing a New Chapter

As I prepare to embark on a new journey as the Executive Director of the South Texas Vo-Tech Campus in Brownsville under the Lindenwood Education System (LES), I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible privilege it has been to serve as President & CEO of the Rio Grande Valley Partnership.

Economic development has been my passion and purpose for the past 20 years. From my time leading the Mission Economic Development Corporation (Mission EDC) to serving as CEO of the RGV Partnership, I have been committed to driving growth, advocating for investment, and creating opportunities for businesses and communities across the Rio Grande Valley. This work is not just a career—it’s a calling. I believe in the power of economic development to transform lives, and I have been honored to play a role in shaping the future of our region.

Leading the RGV Partnership has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I have had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional Board of Directors and Executive Committee—leaders who are deeply committed to the growth and success of our region. Their vision, dedication, and unwavering support have helped shape the RGV Partnership into the powerful advocate it is today.

I am also profoundly grateful to those who have served on our various committees, lending their expertise and passion to drive meaningful initiatives forward. Whether through infrastructure development, public policy advocacy, or economic growth strategies, their contributions have been invaluable in advancing the Valley’s interests.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my time at the Partnership has been witnessing the impact of our RGV Leadership program. The alumni of this program are among the most dynamic and dedicated individuals I have had the pleasure of working with. Their leadership, service, and commitment to making a difference in our communities inspire me daily, and I know they will continue to shape the future of the Rio Grande Valley. The leadership program continues to grow in its reach and purpose. It has provided fruit not only for our class members but also for our community partners who participate by allowing us to tour their facilities/operations and gain a better understanding of the impact that they make on the RGV.

Together, we have accomplished so much—hosting impactful events like the RGV Legislative Tour, RGV Days at the Capitol, RGV to DC, and the RGV Partnership Foundation Golf Tournament. These initiatives have strengthened our collective voice, forged key relationships, and positioned the RGV as a powerhouse of opportunity and innovation.

While I am excited about this new chapter in workforce development, my heart will always remain with the RGV Partnership and the incredible people who make it what it is. At South Texas Vo-Tech (STVT), our mission is to “to advance the personal and professional opportunities of students and employees in a value-driven environment.” Our vision is to “strive to be an innovative and respected educational institution dedicated to preparing students for meaningful careers that contribute to their communities.” Through this role, I look forward to advancing workforce training as a key component of economic development, ensuring that our region continues to thrive by equipping our workforce with the skills and knowledge needed for success.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey with me. Your support, collaboration, and friendship mean the world to me, and I am eternally grateful for the time we have shared working toward a brighter future for the Rio Grande Valley.

Editor’s Note: The above guest column was penned by Daniel Silva, president and CEO of the Rio Grande Valley Partnership. The column appears in the Rio Grande Guardian with the permission of the author. Silva can be reached by email via: daniel@rgvpartnership.com.

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