MCALLEN, Texas — The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has officially addressed its membership following the departure of longtime President and CEO Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, assuring corporate sponsors, business partners, and regional stakeholders that the organization remains on solid footing as it enters a new operational chapter.
In a letter dispatched to members and partners on Wednesday, Board Chair Tom Castañeda reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to driving economic growth, advocacy, and business networking across the four-county region during the ongoing leadership transition.
"As valued members of the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce family, we want to personally share an important leadership update and, most importantly, reassure you that the Chamber remains strong, focused, and fully committed to serving you and the business community across all four counties," Castañeda stated on behalf of the Chamber's Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
The formal notification follows Sakulenzki’s announcement earlier this week regarding her departure after more than 26 years leading the regional business advocacy group.
"After more than 25 years of dedicated service, Cynthia M. Sakulenzki and the Chamber have agreed to part ways as our organization enters a new chapter of leadership," Castañeda noted. "For Cynthia's many years of service and the contributions she has made to the Chamber and the Rio Grande Valley, we wish her every success in her new chapter."
To ensure smooth operations during the transition, Castañeda emphasized that the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and the Chamber's volunteer ambassador corps—known as the Compadres—are actively managing organizational oversight while a formal search process is initiated.
"Throughout this transition, the Chamber will continue moving forward with the strong support and active leadership of our Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and Compadres," Castañeda said. "Together we are committed to ensuring continuity in our operations, programs, and initiatives while the Board conducts a comprehensive search for the Chamber's next President and CEO."
Castañeda added that the organization’s foundational mission—focused on small business development, networking,mentorship, education, and cross-border trade opportunities—remains entirely unchanged.
"Most importantly, our mission has not changed. We remain dedicated to strengthening businesses and professionals across the Rio Grande Valley through networking, mentorship, education, and economic development," he stated. "Our members, corporate sponsors, and community partners remain at the heart of everything we do, and we are grateful for your continued investment, engagement, and trust."
Pointing to the broader economic momentum taking place throughout South Texas, the board chair expressed optimism regarding the organization's strategic path forward, pointing to the Chamber's long-standing rallying cry.
"The Rio Grande Valley is experiencing tremendous opportunity and the Chamber is excited about what lies ahead,guided by our motto: Strength in Unity," Castañeda concluded. "We will continue working alongside you to elevate our business community, create meaningful opportunities, and help build an even stronger region."
Business owners, sponsors, and community members seeking additional information regarding the leadership transition or ongoing Chamber programming can contact Board Chair Tom Castañeda directly by phone at (310) 405-4020 or via email at tom.castaneda@uhsrgv.com.
