Susan Christian and Laura Spanjian have built their careers on servant leadership, working with organizations at both local and national levels to drive positive change.
After retiring from the City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Special Events (MOSE), Susan Christian became Rice University’s first Senior Director of Campus and Community Engagement and Conference Services. She now works to raise the university’s global profile and leads major campus events.
During her time at MOSE, she helped make Houston’s cultural scene nationally recognized for creativity and celebration. She worked with seven Houston mayors to oversee and produce popular events like the July 4th SHELL Freedom Over Texas celebration, the H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Cigna Sunday in the Park.
Laura Spanjian brings over 25 years of experience in policy and legislation, working with city, state, and federal governments. She also has a strong background in environmental policy and sustainability. As Head of Global Policy for Airbnb, she leads a team of more than 200 people who handle policy and regulatory work around the world. Laura has also led Airbnb’s international recovery efforts after natural disasters.
She joined Airbnb in 2016 after spending six years in Houston Mayor Annise Parker’s office, where she developed new programs and policies that improved life in Houston.
Laura serves on the Houston Parks Board and chairs the Communications and Community Engagement Committee. She is also on the board of Climate Mayors, which she started with Mayor Annise Parker and the mayors of Los Angeles and Philadelphia.
Susan and Laura care deeply about building community and making sure everyone’s voice is heard. They have received several awards for their work. Their two sons, Eli, who is almost 14, and Ethan, who is 11, are at the center of their lives. Susan and Laura stay involved in their sons’ schools, sports, and scouting activities. Even with busy careers, they make family time a top priority and work to create a loving, supportive home.
Susan and Laura hope that by setting an example, their sons will grow up to care for their communities, lead with kindness and value others.