Josie Lewis, director of sales for Visit The Woodlands, will be recognized as the Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce's 2026 Emerging Leader of the Year at the organization's 48th Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon on Sept. 25.

Chamber staff surprised Lewis with the news during a visit to her office, according to the Chamber's announcement published Tuesday, Aug. 4.

Beyond her day job attracting conventions and group business to the community, Lewis serves as team lead for CREW (Connecting Rising Executives in The Woodlands), the Chamber's young-professionals program for ages 21 to 39. The program launched this year. Lewis has been the driving force behind expanding participation and building programming for the group.

"Josie brings people together, turns ideas into action and challenges those around her to become more engaged," Chamber President and CEO Aaron Cox said in the organization's Aug. 3 announcement. "Her leadership has created a strong foundation for CREW's continued growth."

In her role at Visit The Woodlands, Lewis guides sales strategy, coordinates industry outreach and works with local hospitality professionals to position The Woodlands as a meetings destination. She holds the Certified Meeting Professional and Certified Tourism Ambassador designations and has been recognized by the Texas Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus. She was also selected for Connect Corporate's 40 Under 40 program.

The award recognizes a professional building a successful career while distinguishing themselves as a rising leader through community involvement and contributions within their organization.

The Sept. 25 luncheon runs from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Kevin Brady Community Center. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at woodlandschamber.org.