Laurence Payne

Laurence Payne has 34 years of experience in public service, education and not-for-profit leadership. Larry is recognized from City Hall to the White House with city, State and National leaders actively seek out his counsel in leadership, diversity, management, organization design, and strategic planning. Larry’s career in public service includes notable positions at the city, state and congressional levels. As District Director for Congressman Mickey Leland, he managed the congressman’s Texas-based programs, pre and post election. Recognized in national circles, Larry was asked by Congressman Chris Bell to serve as his District Director. Larry oversaw all operations for the 25th Congressional District with oversight of Chris' offices in Houston, Pasadena and Baytown. Securing the City of Houston's place in history Larry helped bring the 1991 and 2002 National NAACP Conventions to Houston where he served as General Chairman with over 12,000 and 17,000 in attendees respectively from around the country. Larry's actively participated in the following community organizations: The American Leadership Forum; The American Productivity and Quality Center; The Greater Houston Women’s Foundation; Houston Works; Children At Risk; The National Conference for Community and Justice; NAACP; Interfaith Ministries; The Junior League; Leadership Houston; Rice University; The San Jacinto Girl Scout Council; Teach for America; The University of St. Thomas; The United Way of the Texas Gulf Coast; Education Foundation of Harris County; Greater Houston Convention and Visitor’s Bureau; Fairfax County Government; and the United Way of America.