Nov 26, 2024 Board of Trade

Board of Trade hosts 135th Annual Meeting, highlighting successes and future goals

The Greater Washington Board of Trade celebrated its 135th Annual Meeting, presented by Kaiser Permanente, on November 22, 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton in Washington, D.C. This signature event has been a cornerstone of the organization’s efforts since 1889, bringing together members and partners to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and strategize for the future.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore kicked off Annual Meeting by delivering an inspiring keynote address that focused on collaboration and partnerships with the business community that resonated deeply with our commitment to advancing the Greater Washington region. With many of our members operating across this vibrant and ever-evolving area, engaging with state leaders like Governor Moore helps us stay connected and aligned with regional progress.

Attendees had the opportunity to hear directly from key leaders driving the organization’s mission forward. Outgoing 2024 Chair Steve Proctor of G.S. Proctor & Associates reflected on the year’s accomplishments, highlighting milestones in transportation, public safety, and inclusive economic growth. Jeremy Blank of Deloitte, the incoming 2025 Chair, shared his vision for the year ahead, emphasizing continued collaboration and innovation. President & CEO Jack McDougle underscored the importance of member engagement and outlined strategic priorities to ensure the Greater Washington region’s long-term prosperity.

VIDEO: Jack McDougle addresses Board of Trade membership, Greater Washington business community

View More Pictures from Annual Meeting on Flickr

Key Highlights of the Event:

  • A Year of Progress and Collaboration: The meeting spotlighted achievements in regional transportation through the DMVMoves initiative, collaborative public safety advancements like the Secure DC Act, and inclusive economic growth efforts, such as Pathways to Prosperity.

VIDEO: Outgoing 2024 Chair Steve Proctor addresses GWBOT membership

  • Looking Ahead to 2025: Attendees discussed the strategic vision for next year, including plans to advance economic revitalization and secure key designations to support regional innovation and growth.

VIDEO: Incoming 2025 Chair Jeremy Blank addresses GWBOT membership

  • Networking and Recognition: With robust attendance from industry leaders and member organizations, the event served as a premier networking opportunity and a celebration of collective milestones.

VIDEO: Kaiser Permanente’s Israel Rocha addresses Greater Washington business community

The Board’s leadership emphasized the importance of continuing to foster partnerships and maintaining engagement from members to drive initiatives forward. Members were encouraged to stay involved by attending events, engaging with staff, and leveraging opportunities to contribute to the organization’s mission.

Thank you to all our members for contributing to the work of the Board of Trade that helps our region and business community to stay competitive, engaged, productive, and inclusive to all who live and visit!

The Annual Meeting underscored the Board of Trade’s role as a powerful convener and advocate for the Greater Washington region.

In 2025, we anticipate fresh challenges coupled with abundant prospects. Drawing from our enduring legacy in this region, the Board of Trade is unwavering in its dedication to amplifying your achievements and bolstering our region’s competitiveness. We’ll advance this by nurturing stronger connections, advocating more powerfully across federal, state, and local arenas, conducting in-depth analyses, and rolling out specific programs and initiatives.

Stay up to date on Board of Trade events here: https://www.bot.org/events

Thank you to our sponsors for supporting our 2024 Annual Meeting and continuing your support for the Board of Trade and our vital work in the region: