At the sold-out Greater Houston Women's Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Luncheon Houston Mayor John Whitmire inducted the group's esteemed 2024 Chair of the Board Maria Martinez ’01, MBA ‘06. Martinez, who is Murphy Oil Corporation’s vice president, Human Resources and Administration, is clear about what she wants to accomplish in her new GHWCC role.  

She said, “As Chair of the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce board, I aim to continue supporting women and girls in our community to ensure they receive development and advancement opportunities, training programs and visibility.”

Importance of Helping Others

Raised in Houston, the first-generation college graduate has achieved great success and helps those who come behind her whenever she can.

“I had many mentors and people who guided me in my career, and it’s important for me to help others on their professional journey,” she said.

Education is Key to Success

In addition, Martinez does not hesitate to affirm the benefits of knowledge and education.

“Education has been critical to my success. It has been the foundation that has provided me with many opportunities in my professional and personal life.”

She was drawn to UST for its faith-based campus and central location that provided non-traditional students with many evening course offerings. Still, getting that education did not come without obstacles.

Martinez recalled, “I worked full-time while going to UST in the evenings for my BBA and weekends for my MBA. It was challenging, but I could practice what I learned at work in real time!

“UST provided me with a wonderful education and ethical foundation that has influenced my leadership style. I also have great friends I met there!”

A Natural Leader

A natural leader, Martinez has served on multiple boards and committees, including St. Agnes Academy, National Charity League, and St. Cecilia Catholic School. She has also received many leadership recognitions—among them, Top Latinos in C-Suite, GHWCC Chapter of the Year, Top 100 Women in Energy, and Top 100 Women in Business.

Her goal for the future is simple — she said, “Being an example for our two daughters and continuing to make an impact where I work and live.”