Level Up Your Career at UMANT’s Exec Connect!
Looking to break into leadership in local government? Want direct access to top public sector executives in the DFW Metroplex? Exec Connect is your chance to meet, learn from, and network with the decision-makers shaping our communities.
This dynamic, round-robin style event pairs you with experienced city managers, directors, and public administration leaders for quick-hit career conversations, insider advice, and candid discussions about what it takes to lead in local government. Bring your questions, get career-changing insights, and make connections that count!
Stick around for the happy hour afterward—because great careers don’t just happen in the office. Happy hour time and location will be shared once finalized.
Don't miss this opportunity to take your public service career to the next level!
Rachel Balthrop Mendoza – Assistant City Manager, City of Kaufman
Caitlan Biggs – Assistant Town Manager, Town of Little Elm
Katy Bower – Director of Customer Service, City of Carrollton
Mario Canizares – City Manager, City of Prosper
Brittney Huff – Finance Director, City of White Settlement
Tommy Ludwig – City Manager, City of Burleson
Matt Mueller – Town Manager, Town of Little Elm
Alison Ortowski – City Manager, City of Southlake
Cori Reaume – Director of Planning, City of North Richland Hills
Ashley Shroyer – Deputy City Manager, Town of Addison
Shanna Sims – Assistant City Manager, City of University Park
James W. Childers – Town Manager, Town of Flower Mound
Attendees can enter through North Lobby Suite 200 or front entrance as appropriate. See attached for parking instructions and venue map:
IAC Ste 200 Parking and Venue Map.pdf
Saturday, April 11th | 6:00 – 8:00 PM Messina Hof Winery, Grapevine, TX
Step into a night of flavor, flair, and future-focused giving at UMANT’s signature Wine and Dine fundraiser!
This year, we’re uncorking something truly special at Messina Hof Winery — a stunning backdrop for an evening of indulgent wines, chef-crafted bites, and meaningful connection with fellow professionals who care about building better communities.
But this isn’t just a night out. It’s a night forward.
Each ticket supports the William J. Pitstick Scholarship, which fuels the dreams of local MPA students ready to lead the next generation of urban innovation. Whether you're a longtime UMANT member, a student, or simply someone who believes in the power of public service — this is your invitation to invest in our future, one glass at a time.
✨ Come dressed to impress and ready to mix, mingle, and make an impact.
For non-student guests and members alike
Student Admission – $30
Available to all students currently enrolled in a North Texas MPA or related graduate program
Raise a glass. Raise a scholar. Raise the bar for urban management.
We’ll see you April 11th.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Please contact umant.northtexas@gmail.com, Membership & Partnership Chair for more information.
Diamond Sponsor – $3,500
Platinum Sponsor – $2,500
Gold Sponsor – $1,500
Wine & Dine Silver Sponsor – $750
