The View Ahead: Scenic Houston Welcomes New Board Leadership

Houston Sunrise January 2026

As Scenic Houston looks ahead to another exciting year of advocacy, education, and community impact, we're proud to welcome new leadership to our Board of Directors. These transitions reflect the strength of our organization and the dedicated volunteers whose vision and commitment help shape a more beautiful, resilient, and livable Houston.

Welcome, Jeri Brooks, Board Chair

Scenic Houston is pleased to welcome Jeri Brooks as Chair of the Board of Directors for 2026.

A respected leader with a longstanding commitment to Scenic Houston's mission, Jeri has been a thoughtful and collaborative voice on the Board for many years. Her experience in nonprofit governance, strategic leadership, and civic engagement—paired with her deep appreciation for Houston's unique character—positions her to lead the organization during an exciting period of growth and opportunity.

As Board Chair, Jeri will help advance Scenic Houston's work to champion thoughtful development, protect the region's visual character, and promote streets, public spaces, and policies that contribute to a healthier, more connected community.

Alia Vinson Named First Vice Chair

Scenic Houston is also delighted to announce Alia Vinson as First Vice Chair for 2026.

Alia has quickly become an invaluable member of the Board, bringing energy, insight, and a collaborative spirit to every conversation. Her professional expertise and passion for urban design, placemaking, and sustainability align closely with Scenic Houston's mission, and her forward-thinking perspective will help strengthen the organization's work in the years ahead.

As First Vice Chair, Alia will play an important role in supporting the Board's leadership and helping advance Scenic Houston's strategic priorities.

Melissa Schmitz Named Second Vice Chair

Scenic Houston is pleased to welcome Melissa Schmitz, Principal at Kirksey Architecture, as Second Vice Chair for 2026.

Melissa brings extensive experience in architecture, urban design, and community planning, along with a deep commitment to creating places that are both functional and inspiring. Throughout her career, she has championed thoughtful design, sustainability, and collaborative problem-solving—values that closely align with Scenic Houston's mission.

As Second Vice Chair, Melissa will help strengthen the Board's leadership team while supporting the organization's efforts to advance high-quality streetscapes, preserve Houston's visual character, and promote policies that contribute to a more beautiful, connected, and resilient region. Her expertise and passion for the built environment will be invaluable as Scenic Houston continues to advocate for thoughtful growth and lasting community impact.

Thank You, Ashley Grigsby

As we welcome new leadership, we also extend our deepest appreciation to Ashley Grigsby for her exceptional service as Board Chair.

Ashley's leadership helped propel Scenic Houston through a year of significant accomplishment. Under her guidance, the organization launched the Streetscape Resource Guide (SRG) 3.0, our most comprehensive resource for streetscape planning and design, further positioning Scenic Houston as a national leader in promoting livability, thoughtful development, and visual quality.

She also helped elevate two of the organization's signature events—the Scenic Star Reception and the Annual Scenic Dinner—bringing together civic leaders, partners, supporters, and advocates to celebrate the shared vision of a more beautiful Houston.

Throughout her tenure, Ashley led with thoughtfulness, humility, and an unwavering commitment to collaboration. Her steady leadership strengthened the organization, inspired those around her, and laid a strong foundation for the work ahead.

Looking Forward

With Jeri Brooks serving as Board Chair, Alia Vinson as First Vice Chair, and Melissa Schmitz as Second Vice Chair, Scenic Houston enters 2026 with renewed energy and a shared commitment to shaping a more beautiful, resilient, and livable Houston.

Together with our dedicated Board, members, partners, and supporters, we look forward to continuing our work to protect and enhance Houston's scenic character, champion thoughtful development, and create places that enrich the lives of everyone who calls our region home.