Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas — The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce announced D.A. Terry Palacios as the 2026 Edinburg Man of the Year and Hidalgo County Precinct 4 Commissioner Ellie Torres as the 2026 Edinburg Woman of the Year. Both will be recognized during the Chamber’s 101st Annual Banquet and Installation Celebration on Saturday, November 7, 2026.
As the Chamber begins its second century of service to the Edinburg community, these distinguished honors recognize two individuals whose leadership, dedication, and commitment to public service have made a lasting impact on Edinburg and the Rio Grande Valley.
Palacios has long been a dedicated leader and advocate for the Edinburg community, exemplifying servant leadership through his professional career and extensive community involvement. His service includes contributions to the Edinburg Municipal Court, Edinburg Housing Authority, the Boys and Girls Club of Edinburg RGV, the Palacios Foundation, and the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, where he served seven years on the Board of Directors, including as Board Chair.
Throughout his involvement, Palacios has demonstrated a hands-on commitment to strengthening the community, supporting local youth, and helping organizations fulfill their missions. From leading fundraising efforts and supporting charitable initiatives to volunteering his time at community events, he and his family have consistently demonstrated the importance of giving back. His continued involvement with Sacred Heart Catholic Church and his encouragement of health and wellness initiatives further reflect his dedication to improving the quality of life for others.
Torres brings nearly three decades of public service and community leadership to the Woman of the Year honor. Her service includes years on the Edinburg CISD Board of Trustees and her tenure as Hidalgo County Precinct 4 Commissioner, a position she has held since 2019. Throughout her career, she has focused on advancing initiatives that address critical community needs and improve the quality of life for residents throughout Edinburg and Hidalgo County.
As Commissioner, Torres has helped advance investments in drainage and flood control, transportation and infrastructure, parks and recreational spaces, public health, rural services, and community resources. Her efforts to secure more than $39 million in flood-control funding and advance numerous drainage projects have addressed significant infrastructure challenges facing the region.
A former educator and small business owner, Torres has also made history through her appointment as the first woman to serve as Chair of the Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization. Her leadership reflects a commitment to collaboration among local governments, educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations to build a stronger future for the region.
The 101st Annual Banquet, themed “An Evening in Color,” will mark a milestone in the Chamber’s history while welcoming incoming Board President Ruby Casas and recognizing outgoing Board President Aaron Nick Cantu for his leadership and service. The evening will also feature Howl2GO, the official traveling version of the renowned Howl at the Moon dueling piano experience, which will bring interactive entertainment and audience-requested music to the celebration.
The annual banquet brings together business leaders, elected officials, community partners, Chamber members, and guests to celebrate the accomplishments of local leaders, recognize outstanding contributions, and look ahead to the future of Edinburg.
Tables and individual tickets are available for purchase. Businesses and community members are encouraged to attend and join the Chamber in celebrating this year’s honorees. For sponsorship, table and ticket information, contact the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956-383-4974.
Information source:Edinburg Chamber of Commerce
