Strategic Communicator

Thomas Graham is the strategist leaders call when the stakes are high and the audience is everyone. As Founder & CEO of Crosswind Media & Public Relations, he leads a team of government-affairs communicators who manage mission-critical campaigns at the Capitol, in boardrooms, and across communities. Turning complex issues into clear, trusted narratives that move opinion and outcomes.

Across more than three decades, Graham has guided Fortune 500s, elected officials, universities, foundations, and family offices on brand, reputation, and policy; spanning energy, finance, higher education, entertainment, and public affairs. A crisis-tested spokesperson and nationally respected corporate-affairs strategist, he has organized national coalitions that helped secure billions in federal investment for Texas infrastructure, innovation, and research.

Before launching Crosswind, he served as an executive board communications leader at a global financial institution and as a practice leader at one of the world’s largest PR firms; experience that shows in his disciplined planning and calm, executive-level counsel. He serves on the boards of the Forbes Agency Council, the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, and the Texas Advocacy Project, and frequently writes and lectures on communications, reputation, and leadership.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicator honorees, Thomas Graham exemplifies message discipline, timing, and voice; delivering clarity when it matters most.

Dr. Vance Ginn has built his career around making economics make sense. As President of Ginn Economic Consulting and a former Chief Economist for the Office of Management and Budget, he has become one of the most trusted voices translating complex fiscal and policy issues into clear, actionable insights. His ability to connect data, policy, and people has made him a respected resource among lawmakers, staff, and policy experts across the country.

“Dr. Ginn has an ability to communicate what are often very complex economic concepts in a way that is both easily digestible and understandable to the layman,” one nominator shared. “His experience and engagement with lawmakers and policy leaders have helped establish him as a significant voice in government spending and economic policy.”

Through his firm and his Let People Prosper Show podcast, Vance collaborates with more than 20 organizations nationwide to promote free-market reforms that advance growth, opportunity, and fiscal responsibility. His expertise spans sustainable budgeting, tax relief, labor markets, and education freedom, and his work has been featured in outlets including Fox Business and The Wall Street Journal.

A first-generation college graduate raised in South Houston, Vance earned his Ph.D. in Economics from Texas Tech University. His approach reflects both professional rigor and personal conviction - that prosperity should be achievable for all Texans, not just a few.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicators of the Year, Dr. Vance Ginn represents the clarity, credibility, and purpose that define Texas’s most trusted voices in public policy.

Travis McCormick has built a reputation as a strategic communicator who knows how to turn ideas into movements. As Founder and Principal of McCormick Strategies, he leads a fast-growing public affairs firm recognized for its creative campaigns, strong relationships, and disciplined messaging that gets results. Whether advising clients in the private sector or leading statewide coalitions, Travis brings focus, empathy, and purpose to every initiative he touches.

“Travis is one of the hardest working young lobbyists out there,” one nominator wrote. “He’s built a good, honest, and successful platform with his Make Texans Healthy Again initiative.” Another added, “He’s distinguished himself as a collaborative, principled leader whose impact reaches far beyond his client work.”

Through his leadership of Make Texans Healthy Again, Travis helped unite policymakers, associations, and advocates around a shared goal of improving access to healthcare across Texas. Contributing to the passage of 25 bills in its first session! His has an ability to connect complex policy to real human impact reflects a communications skillset that goes beyond talking points. He builds trust and drives change.

With a background in both communications strategy and government affairs, Travis has become a go-to voice for organizations seeking clarity, credibility, and meaningful engagement with state leaders.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicator of the Year honorees, Travis McCormick represents the discipline, creativity, and purpose-driven storytelling that define the most effective communicators in Texas public affairs.

Shannon Meroney is one of Texas’s most trusted and influential voices in government affairs. A proven strategist whose precision, professionalism, and results have earned her statewide and national recognition. As President of Meroney Public Affairs, LLC, Shannon advises clients on legislative, regulatory, and communications strategies that shape outcomes across industries and issues.

“I highly recommend Shannon Meroney in the category of Strategic Communicator,” one nominator wrote. “She’s a distinguished leader in government affairs, recognized for her exceptional strategic acumen and ability to deliver results on the most complex issues facing clients.”

With a background that blends law, corporate affairs, and public strategy, Shannon guides organizations through every stage of the policy process, from legislative development to regulatory implementation and stakeholder engagement. Her ability to connect precision with purpose has made her a go-to voice for both clients and colleagues in the Capitol community

A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Houston Law Center, Shannon’s blend of legal expertise and policy strategy allows her to bridge the worlds of law, business, and politics with rare effectiveness.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicators of the Year, Shannon Meroney represents the intelligence, credibility, and integrity that define Texas’s most trusted voices in public affairs.

HB Strategies Texas Principal Myra Leo has been named Strategic Communicator of the Year by USLege's 2026 Best in Government Affairs Awards.

The peer-nominated recognition honors the top twelve professionals in Texas whose message discipline, timing, and voice influence not just public opinion, but legislative outcomes: communicators who know how to deliver the right message at the right time.

For more than 25 years, Myra has been a defining voice in Texas government affairs as a strategist, connector, and communicator whose influence extends across sectors and generations. As a Principal at HB Strategies, she blends policy expertise with strategic communication to move complex issues through the legislative and regulatory arenas with clarity, credibility, and impact.

“Myra's career reflects a distinguished record of success in guiding complex policy and regulatory issues before the Texas Legislature and state agencies,” one nominator wrote. “Her expertise spans municipal and county government, higher education, pharmaceuticals, energy, telecom, transportation, and healthcare, giving her clients a formidable advantage.” Another added, “Her career embodies the very essence of strategic communication: clarity of vision, strength of influence, and the ability to connect across industries, communities, and generations.”

Before joining HB Strategies, Myra worked as a government affairs advisor at K&L Gates, representing a variety of clients over 23 years. Earlier, she worked for the City of San Antonio, advancing city priorities at the federal, state, and local levels. Key to Myra's career path was serving as Chief of Staff to former State Representative Irma Rangel, the first Hispanic woman elected to the Texas Legislature, where she also directed the Mexican American Legislative Caucus.

A ninth-generation Texan and a member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Myra is a well-respected mentor who continues to serve on boards including the Senate Hispanic Research Council, Austin PBS, the Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies, the UT President's Development Board, and the Texas Exes. She is an avid supporter of local arts organizations and Catholic nonprofits in the central Texas region. Myra was named a “Distinguished Alumnus” by the University of Texas and awarded the “Women of Distinction” honor by the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce.

Her leadership reflects a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, mentorship, and cultural stewardship. As one of this year's Strategic Communicator of the Year honorees, Myra represents the vision, strength, and voice that define Texas's most trusted and enduring leaders in public affairs.

Merrill Davis has a rare gift: she makes complex policy resonate. As Vice President of Communications at Texas 2036, she leads the organization’s storytelling with a balance of strategy, substance, and empathy. She translates data into impact and helping Texans see themselves in the state’s future.

“At Texas 2036, Merrill has turned information into inspiration,” one nominator wrote. “Under her leadership, issues like water infrastructure and education reform stop being abstract problems and become part of our shared future.” Another added, “Her communications strategy helped amplify Texas 2036’s policy wins in tangible ways - turning research and reports into real public understanding that drives change.”

Under Merrill’s leadership, Texas 2036’s reach has expanded dramatically, with the organization’s social media following now exceeding 60,000. Her approach to narrative-building has helped frame critical policy discussions around infrastructure, education, health care, and workforce development. Her team’s 2025 Legislative Report became a go-to resource for policymakers and media alike. A reflection of how effectively she has positioned Texas 2036 as a trusted, data-driven voice in public policy.

Beyond her results, Merrill’s leadership style stands out for its generosity. She lifts others, celebrates collaboration, and leads with clarity, humor, and hope. With more than 25 years in public affairs, including at Public Strategies, Inc., Hill+Knowlton Strategies, and Mercury Public Affairs, she continues to elevate how Texas talks about its future.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicator of the Year honorees, Merrill Davis represents the clarity, creativity, and conviction that define Texas’s most trusted voices in public policy and advocacy.

Mason Reid has permanently raised the bar for Texas campaign and legislative communications. As the Founder and CEO of Blue Victory Communications, he has built one of the state’s most recognizable firms supporting Democratic candidates and causes through sharp, creative, and high-impact messaging strategies.

“Mason was instrumental in launching James Talarico to the monumental fame that is now fueling a run for the U.S. Senate,” one nominator shared. “Since winning Talarico’s first race, Mason has helped candidates up and down the ballot build resonant messaging, communicate effectively, and connect with voters and constituents in every corner of the state.”

Before founding Blue Victory, Mason served as Communications Director and Strategist for State Representative James Talarico, leading both campaign and legislative messaging efforts. With nearly a decade of experience shaping narratives in Texas politics, he’s become a trusted creative partner for candidates and policymakers working to connect with Texans in meaningful, authentic ways.

Driven by a simple belief - that honest answers and creative solutions can change the course of Texas politics.  Mason Reid continues to shape not only campaigns but conversations across the state.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicators of the Year, Mason Reid represents the creativity, discipline, and clarity that define Texas’s most effective voices in public affairs.

Katherine McLane is the strategist organizations call when the stakes are highest. As Founder and CEO of The Mach 1 Group, she brings a rare blend of policy fluency, message discipline, and crisis-tested judgment. This combination turns complex issues into clear, compelling narratives that move decision-makers. A former Press Secretary at the U.S. Department of Education and Deputy Press Secretary to the California Governor, she pairs national-level communications experience with Texas savvy to deliver results for clients across sectors.

“Naming Katherine for Strategic Communicator of the Year is easy,” one nominator wrote. “Her team tracked and worked on 41 bills in the 89th Session, across education, regulatory reform, and affordable housing, and she helped advance landmark legislation through strategic storytelling.” Others point to her stewardship of major wins, from the Life of the Mother Act and the Regulatory Reform and Efficiency Act to high-visibility efforts that sparked statewide and national dialogue. Another nominator added: “She’s an extraordinary communicator with decades of experience… I would trust her with any campaign I could imagine. She leads with empathy, grace, and humor.”

Katherine’s career spans senior government service and reputational leadership in the nonprofit world, including guiding LIVESTRONG through one of the highest-profile crises in the sector. Since then, she has led multimillion-dollar campaigns, expanded pro bono support for grassroots nonprofits, and invested in the next generation by mentoring at the UT LBJ Women’s Campaign School, cultivating a culture of bold, creative women leaders inside her firm.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicator of the Year honorees, Katherine McLane represents the discipline, clarity, and voice that shapes public understanding and legislative outcomes in Texas.

Julia Dvorak has built a reputation in the Texas Capitol for pairing professionalism with genuine kindness. A communicator who not only gets results but lifts everyone around her in the process. As Executive Director of the Texas Senate Republican Caucus, Julia plays a key role in guiding message strategy, coordinating communications among members, and ensuring clarity and discipline across high-stakes policy and political efforts.

“People think very highly of Julia,” one nominator shared. “She’s kind, always helpful, and there for people when they need it. We’re all thankful for her.” That quiet steadiness and trust have made her a go-to presence for both colleagues and caucus members navigating complex legislative moments.

Before stepping into her current role, Julia founded Dvorak & Co., a national public relations consultancy that has advanced school choice policy and other conservative initiatives across the country. Her work combines message strategy with purpose. Helping organizations tell their stories with clarity and conviction.

A resident of Liberty Hill, Julia and her husband are proud parents of three and active members of Victory City Church.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicators of the Year, Julia Dvorak represents the empathy, strength, and professionalism that define Texas’s most trusted communicators

Brittany Eck is the communicator people turn to when the message matters most. With more than two decades of experience across nearly every level of government, she has built a reputation for clarity, credibility, and calm under pressure. Known for her ability to translate complex policy into language that informs and reassures, Brittany has earned the trust of both the public and the press because she speaks with care, purpose, and truth.

“Brittany is the dream communications professional who understands the need to understand policy too,” one nominator wrote. “She’s the one the public and press trust because she truly cares about her state.” Another added, “She’s handled large disasters and controversial projects with grace and professionalism.”

Her distinguished career includes senior communications roles throughout Texas government, where she has led public outreach, strategic messaging, and media relations efforts that impacted millions of Texans. At the Texas General Land Office, Brittany oversaw the production of a Lone Star Emmy Award–winning disaster preparedness campaign and directed statewide communications for recovery and mitigation programs. Her steady leadership and strategic instincts have guided responses through some of the state’s most high-profile moments.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicator of the Year honorees, Brittany Eck represents the clarity, integrity, and voice that define Texas’s most trusted communicators in public affairs and government service.

Allen Blakemore is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished communicators and political strategists in Texas. As the founder and principal of Blakemore & Associates and Blakemore Public Affairs, he has spent more than three decades shaping the narratives that define campaigns, policies, and leadership across the state.

“He’s wonderful - one of the strongest communicators in the business,” one nominator shared. “I trust him immensely.” That trust has been well earned. From message discipline to media strategy, Allen’s work has set the benchmark for clarity, precision, and effectiveness in Texas politics.

A third-generation Texan and graduate of Texas Tech University, Allen launched Blakemore & Associates in 1988 and has since guided more than 475 winning campaigns across Texas. His firms provide comprehensive political strategy, government relations, and lobbying services, with offices in both Houston and Austin. Ranked among the state’s top consultants by Capitol Inside, he is recognized nationally for his excellence in political communication and fundraising strategy.

Beyond his professional achievements, Allen remains deeply involved in civic and community work, supporting public safety and youth programs throughout the state. His mix of integrity, discipline, and instinct has made him one of the most trusted voices in Texas public affairs.

As one of this year’s Strategic Communicators of the Year, Allen Blakemore represents the precision, insight, and credibility that define Texas’s most influential voices