Inaugural 2026

Thank you for joining Inaugural!

The 2026 Inaugural Dinner was a powerful reflection of the strength, resilience, and leadership that define the Los Angeles business community. Set in the iconic Ray Dolby Ballroom, the evening brought together business, civic, and community partners to celebrate impact and set the tone for the year ahead.

CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP AT THE 2026 INAUGURAL

Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas opened the program by reaffirming the Chamber’s commitment to advancing opportunity, strengthening the regional economy, and championing leadership that serves the greater good. In her remarks, Maria emphasized the importance of collaboration between business and government, particularly at a time when Los Angeles is navigating wildfire recovery efforts and global opportunity. She underscored the Chamber’s role as a convener and advocate, ensuring that the voice of business remains central to shaping the region’s future.

RECOGNIZING CORPORATE & CIVIC IMPACT

Everett Sands, President & CEO of Lendistry and the evening’s Platinum Sponsor, shared insights on Lendistry’s partnership with the Chamber before presenting Bank of America with the Corporate Leadership Award. The award was accepted by Chamber Board member and former Board Chair Raul Anaya, Head of Local Markets Strategy and President, Greater Los Angeles, who reflected on the bank’s continued investment in the region’s growth and economic vitality.

The evening continued with the presentation of two of the Chamber’s highest distinctions. Lewis Horne, President - Greater LA, Orange County & Inland Empire, CBRE, was honored with the Distinguished Business Leader Award, recognizing exceptional professional achievement and meaningful community engagement. A respected leader whose career has shaped the commercial real estate landscape, Lew spoke about the responsibility that comes with leadership, building strong teams, supporting community institutions, and investing in Los Angeles for the long term.

George Kieffer, Senior Counsel, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP, received the Civic Medal of Honor, a recognition reserved for individuals whose service has strengthened the fabric of civic life. His reflections reminded attendees that civic leadership demands integrity, collaboration, and an unwavering belief in Los Angeles’ promise. George’s impressive civic leadership was highlighted through various roles, including service as Chair of the Chamber Board for two years.

A LEADERSHIP TRANSITION & A NEW CHAPTER

We also recognized 2025 Board Chair George L. Pla, whose tenure required clarity, steadiness, and bold thinking. His leadership advanced key priorities and deepened the Chamber’s regional impact during a consequential year.

The formal "Passing of the Gavel" marked the beginning of a new chapter as Andy Park assumed the role of 2026 Board Chair. Joined by his wife, Ji Yeun, daughter Allison, and his parents, Hyung and Mi Park, Andy shared his vision for the year ahead, focused on growth, collaboration, and positioning Los Angeles for long-term economic strength.

THANK YOU, MAYOR KAREN BASS

We were pleased to welcome Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who shared remarks highlighting the importance of a strong public-private partnership in moving Los Angeles forward. Mayor Bass spoke about the City’s economic priorities, recovery efforts, and the essential role of the business community in driving opportunity, job creation, and long-term growth.

LOOKING AHEAD

The Inaugural Celebration is more than an annual tradition; it is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to the region’s future. The energy in the room reflected optimism, partnership, and momentum for the year to come.

We extend our deep gratitude to our sponsors and supporters whose generosity made the evening possible, and to our Board of Directors for their guidance and steadfast leadership.

We look forward to an exciting and impactful year ahead.

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Thank you once again for your continued support of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce.