HOUSTON, TX – The Harris County – Houston Sports Authority (HCHSA) is proud to announce that CEO Janis Burke will be inducted into the 2024 Sports Events & Tourism Association Hall of Fame. This recognition is a testament to Burke’s unwavering passion and commitment to the sports events and tourism industry. The induction ceremony will take place on Wednesday, April 24, during the Sports ETA Symposium in Portland, Oregon.
“I am incredibly honored and humbled to be inducted into the 2024 Sports ETA Hall of Fame,” said Janis Burke, Harris County – Houston Sports Authority CEO. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Sports Authority team and board of directors, as well as our valued partners and stakeholders. Together, we have transformed the region into a world-class sports destination.”
Established in 2017, the Sports ETA Hall of Fame Committee aims to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the success and promotion of the Sports Events and Tourism Association. Through their dedication and hard work, these inductees have played a vital role in advancing the sports events and tourism industry.
Being inducted alongside Burke in the 2024 class are San Antonio Sports co-founder Bill Hanson and former Rhode Island Sports Commission executive director John Gibbons.
“It is with great pride that we announce Janis Burke as a 2024 inductee in the Sports ETA Hall of Fame,” said John David, President & CEO of Sports ETA. “Janis’s exceptional leadership and groundbreaking achievements in the sports events and tourism industry, especially the Houston sports community, including securing major events like the FIFA World Cup and various Olympic trials, exemplify her unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to our field.”
Under her leadership, the Harris County – Houston Sports Authority has been instrumental in attracting and hosting numerous high-profile sporting events, enhancing the area’s economic development, improving the quality of life for its residents, and maintaining the city and county as a premier destination for marquee sporting events.
“This is an extremely well-deserved honor for Janis,” said Kent J. Friedman, Harris County – Houston Sports Authority Chairman of the Board. “She has been extraordinarily effective in bringing sporting events to town, and the outstanding execution of those events has made Houston one of the best sports cities in the country.”
Additionally, Burke’s passion for sports and her commitment to fostering community engagement through sports events have made a lasting impact on the region. Some of those events include regular fixtures, such as Olympic & Paralympic Day, Abilities in Motion (AIM), National Battle of the Bands, and Houston Sports Awards, among others.
