Join SMPS Oklahoma for a dynamic discussion on the vibrant and diverse districts shaping our community's identity. Our panel of visionary leaders will share valuable insights into the missions driving district progress, challenges in cultural district representation, and the common threads that bind communities together. From revitalization efforts to economic development initiatives, explore the strategies shaping the future of neighborhoods across Oklahoma.

Additionally, we'll delve into the critical role of collaboration between the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry and community leaders in driving sustainable, inclusive growth.

Don't miss this opportunity to engage in a dynamic dialogue celebrating cultural districts and their value, statewide! Lunch from Taqueria & Tortilleria Lupita is included in your registration.

Special thank you to our panel moderator - Michelle Mestayer, MSc, of Willowbrook!

MEET THE PANELISTS:

Rachael Leonhart, Executive Director - The Plaza District

Prior to stepping into the role of Executive Director in 2021, Rachael Leonhart (she/her) served on the Plaza District Association 501c3 and Plaza Business Alliance 501c6 Boards of Directors for several years while employed at Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma. Her leadership has been recognized by 405 Business Magazine (The Metros’ Most Influential List, 2023), OKC Friday (50 Most Powerful Young Professionals nomination, 2020-2024), and the Oklahoma Gazette (Forty Under 40 award recipient, 2018). Leonhart has helped lead the Plaza District to receive several awards including "Best Local District" by Oklahoma Gazette and by 405 Magazine.

"I am honored to serve in the role of Executive Director of the Plaza District. It aligns closely with what I am most passionate about: facilitating arts and community programming as a tool for growth and improved quality of life here in Oklahoma City. As a musician and neighbor of the Plaza, I've seen firsthand how nonprofits, artists, and small business owners can transform a community as evidenced right here in 16th Street Plaza District.”

Xavier Neira, President - La 29

Xavier Neira is the founder and President of Logatoré, LLC, a real estate development and consulting firm based in Norman, Oklahoma. The firm specializes in commercial construction development projects and mixed-used development projects. The firm was established in 2019 and has over $200 million of active projects.

Prior to the establishment of Logatoré, Xavier worked at Manhattan Construction for 22 years. He served as Director of Development for the construction company, where he was responsible for over $2.8 billion dollars in procurement of new work. Additionally, Xavier was responsible for government affairs at the local, state and federal level as well as community relations in Oklahoma. 

Xavier has been involved in politics at the State and Federal level since 2003. This includes work for the Republican National Committee as a campaign volunteer and Spanish Language Media Surrogate. He has taken part in Telemundo’s Encrucijada Migratoria National Debate and gave several interviews for Fox News - America Live Show with Megyn Kelly. He served on Hispanic Advisory Boards for President George W. Bush, Sen. John McCain and Gov. Mitt Romney. At the State level, Xavier served as Tourism Commissioner for District 4 and served as Chairman of the Transportation Transition Committee as Governor Fallin took office in 2004. He also served groups such as the 100 Ideas for Oklahoma Committee, under Speaker Cargill. 

Xavier was born in Mexico and became a United States citizen almost 45 years ago and has been a proud Oklahoma resident for the past 27 years.

Deandre Martin, Community Development Director - NE OKC Renaissance

DeAndre Martin was born and raised in Northeast Oklahoma City. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma in 2017. He has professional experience working with The University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma House of Representatives, Oklahoma Senate, and Gardner Tanenbaum. He currently serves as the Community Development Director for NE OKC Renaissance and CEO of Monsta Investment Group and XXII (22) East Community Development. 

In 2021, XXII (22) East Community Development and NE OKC Renaissance created PlaceKeepers. PlaceKeepers is a real estate development and small business training program for NE Oklahoma City residents and stakeholders. It is designed to increase community led real estate development and homeownership at levels that offset the displacement caused by gentrification. He is also a founding partner of the OKC Minority Founders Accelerator which launched in 2023. DeAndre has a passion to support entrepreneurs and economic growth in underserved communities.

Andrea Schultz, Executive Director - The Asian District Cultural Association

Andrea Schultz is currently the Executive Director of the Asian District Cultural Association and contributing fashion writer and content creator for LUXIERE magazine. She was born and raised in Oklahoma City, and is a graduate from Oklahoma City Community College and the University of Central Oklahoma.

Having worked in the fashion industry for almost 10 years, she also has a wide variety of experience in forecasting trends, product design & development, e-commerce, editorial photography, and creative direction for both local and global brands. Andrea is currently a board member of The Garde at the OK Contemporary Museum, serves on the Events Committee for the Uptown 23rd Street District, and graduated from Leadership Oklahoma City's LOYAL Class XVIII.

Miriam Campos, Board of Directors Chair - Calle Dos Cinco

Miriam Campos is Vice President, Head of Community Impact at BancFirst. A proven leader with over 20 years of hands-on community engagement experience, Miriam serves as a liaison to develop relationships and build trust within the community. Miriam serves on numerous non-profit boards including Calle Dos Cinco in the Historic Capitol Hill District, Board of Directors - Chair, where she helped start and lead the Fiestas de Las Americas Festival and Parade since its inception in 2006. She is the first Latina to serve on the Board of Education, for Metro Technology Centers, School District No.22, Ward 6 in South Oklahoma City. Miriam is the Founder and President of the OKC Latino Young Professionals Association, dedicated to advancing opportunities for Latinos and Hispanics in Oklahoma. She is also the Board Chair for the Latino Community Development Agency, the leading community service provider in Oklahoma for Latinos.

In 2020, Miriam was appointed to serve on the Charter Review Committee for the City of Oklahoma City and named as a Trustee to the Oklahoma City Economic Development Trust by Oklahoma City, Mayor David Holt.

Thank you Program sponsors!

VENUE SPONSOR

FOOD SPONSOR

DRINK SPONSOR