Young Professionals of the Coastal Bend Announce 2026 Corpus Christi Under 40 Honorees
CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS – The Young Professionals of the Coastal Bend (YPCB) will announce the 2026 Corpus Christi Under 40 (CCU40) honorees during an event to be held on Wednesday, June 10 at the Port of Corpus Christi starting at 5:30 p.m. The evening will feature a proclamation by County Judge Connie Scott and remarks from Port Commission Chairman Gabe Guerra on behalf of Port of Corpus Christi, presenting sponsor of the CCU40 program.
Over 70 nominations were received this year, which were scored by a committee of past honorees and respected community stakeholders. A total of 34 exemplary individuals have been selected to receive this prestigious honor.
The 2026 CCU40 honorees represent a diverse range of trades, and among them are entrepreneurs, civic leaders, educators, hospitality managers, and non-profit advocates who consistently go above and beyond to improve their professions and their communities. These honorees are not only advancing their fields but also giving back, serving as mentors, volunteers, and champions for a stronger Coastal Bend.
While Wednesday’s event marks the announcement of the honorees, YPCB is excited to host the official CCU40 Celebration Brunch presented by Port of Corpus Christi on Friday, August 7 at Ortiz Center.
“The Port of Corpus Christi is proud to support the CCU40 program as a meaningful opportunity to spotlight emerging professional leaders,” said Kent Britton, Chief Executive Officer for the Port of Corpus Christi. “Workforce development is a key area of impact for the Port, and we are excited to celebrate honorees and Port representatives Diana Torres and Valeria Barbosa.”
YPCB will continue the momentum of celebrating those who make an impact on the community by announcing their annual YPCB Superhero, a past CCU40 Honoree who continues to support young leaders and YPCB, at their CCU40 Alumni Mixer on July 14 at 5:30 p.m. at House of Rock. This outstanding individual will also be recognized at the CCU40 Celebration Brunch in August.
“The CCU40 celebration is more than just an awards event—it’s a reflection of our community’s future,” said Lexi Buquet, YPCB Executive Director. “Guests who attend the August event can anticipate an inspiring event showcasing what the future holds and how we keep talent here in the Coastal Bend.”
ABOUT CORPUS CHRISTI UNDER 40
Created in 2006 by Rosaura Bailey and Elisa Fogle, CCU40 is dedicated to not only recognizing outstanding Corpus Christi citizens but also for the betterment of our community. CCU40 is an event honoring the accomplishments of individuals under 40 years of age who have made significant contributions in their professional fields as well as through service in the community. The event not only raises awareness of our young professional community but is also the main fundraiser for YPCB raising funds for continued professional development and networking opportunities to its 100+ members.
Each year individuals are awarded recognition through a nomination and scoring process by a YPCB Board selected committee comprised of past CCU40 honorees, community stakeholders, and YPCB members. In addition, one of these persons is honored as the “YPCB Superhero.” The YPCB Superhero is a local professional of any age who has gone above and beyond to make an impact in this community. The YPCB Board of Directors will consider the following criteria when selecting a Superhero:
Service to the Coastal Bend area
Outstanding achievements impacting an area of the community or a specific segment of the community
Long-standing support of YPCB whether as a Board Member, volunteerism, or a financial supporter
Exhibits true leadership
Former CCU40 Honoree (new)
PAST YPCB SUPERHEROES
2025 RECIPIENT: MARJORIE BOUDREAUX (GUARDIAN OF GOOD)
2024 RECIPIENT: DEBBIE NOBLE (THE FLASH)
2023 RECIPIENT: CASEY LAIN (THE AMPLIFIER)
2022 RECIPIENT: BRAD LOMAX (AQUAMAN)
2021 RECIPIENT: COUNCILMAN BEN MOLINA (SPIDER-BEN)
2019 RECIPIENTS: DR. KELLY MILLER (CAPATIN MARVELOUS)
& DR. MARK ESCAMILLA (THE VISIONARY)2018 RECIPIENT: PHILIP RAMIREZ (MR. FANTASTIC)
2017 RECIPIENT: JUDGE BARBARA CANALES (WONDER WOMAN)
2016 RECIPIENT: GABE GUERRA (THE GLADIATOR)
2015 RECIPIENT: ROSIE COLLIN (ROSIE THE REVITALIZER)
2014 RECIPIENT: DR. FLAVIUS KILLEBREW (MOMENTUM MAN)
2013 RECIPIENT: REPRESENTATIVE TODD HUNTER (THE SHADOW)
2012 RECIPIENT: JOE ADAME (SUPER JOE)
THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 CCU40 SPONSORS
