FREEPORT, Texas – September 19, 2025 – Port Freeport is proud to announce that Executive Director and CEO Phyllis Saathoff has been inducted into the 2025 Brazoria County Business Hall of Fame. The honor was presented during a ceremony on September 18 at the Dow Academic Center, hosted by Junior Achievement of Brazoria County.
The Hall of Fame recognizes distinguished leaders who exemplify business excellence, visionary leadership, and service to the community. Each year, Junior Achievement highlights role models whose contributions strengthen Brazoria County while inspiring future generations.
Honoring Leadership in Economic Growth
“On behalf of the Port Commission, we are proud to see Phyllis recognized as a Brazoria County Business Hall of Fame Laureate,” said Port Commission Chairman Rob Giesecke. “Her leadership has strengthened Port Freeport’s role as a driver of economic growth and opportunity for our region, and this honor reflects her deep commitment to the community we serve.”
Since becoming Executive Director and CEO in 2016, Saathoff has guided Port Freeport through a period of transformative growth, including:
- Advancement of the Freeport Harbor Channel Improvement Project
- Expansion of port infrastructure
- Building strategic partnerships that drive long-term regional economic opportunity
A Legacy of Service and Community Commitment
“I am honored to be inducted into the Brazoria County Business Hall of Fame,” said Phyllis Saathoff. “This recognition belongs to the entire Port Freeport team, our Commissioners, and community partners who make our success possible. I am grateful to Junior Achievement for inspiring the next generation of leaders and proud to share this moment with our community.”
Junior Achievement’s programs reach thousands of Brazoria County students annually, equipping young people with the knowledge and skills needed for future success. The Business Hall of Fame serves both as a celebration of accomplished leaders and a testament to mentorship and community impact.
About Port Freeport
Port Freeport is one of the nation’s leading ports, ranking 6th in chemicals, 14th in total foreign waterborne tonnage, and 26th in containers. A 2022 Economic Impact Study by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute found that the Freeport Harbor Channel generates 266,300 U.S. jobs and contributes $157.3 billion in economic output nationally.
The port serves a wide range of global companies, including: Alliera, Atlantic Container Lines, AMPORTS, BASF, Chiquita Fresh N.A., Dole Fresh Fruit, Dow Chemical, Enterprise Products Partners, ExxonMobil, Freeport LNG, Fresh Del Monte Produce, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Glovis, Grimaldi Lines, Hoegh Autoliners, Kirby Marine, Linde, MEGlobal, NYK RORO, Phillips 66, Riviana Foods, Sallaum Lines, Tenaris, U.S. Department of Energy, Volkswagen Group of America, and Vulcan Materials Company.
Media Contact:
Amanda Veliz
Public Affairs Manager
979.233.2667 ext. 4306
veliz@portfreeport.com
