FREEPORT, TX (September 19, 2025) – Port Freeport is proud to announce that Executive Director and CEO, Phyllis Saathoff, was inducted into the 2025 Brazoria County Business Hall of Fame during a ceremony held on September 18 at the Dow Academic Center.
The event, hosted by Junior Achievement, honored distinguished leaders who exemplify business excellence, visionary leadership, and service to the community. Through the annual Business Hall of Fame, Junior Achievement highlights role models whose contributions strengthen Brazoria County while inspiring future generations.
“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 assuming the role of Executive Director and CEO in 2016, Saathoff has guided Port Freeport through transformative growth, including the successful advancement of the Freeport Harbor Channel Improvement Project, expansion of port infrastructure, and strategic partnerships that continue to enhance economic opportunity in the region.
“I am honored to be inducted into the Brazoria County Business Hall of Fame,” said 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 students annually in Brazoria County, equipping young people with the knowledge and skills needed for future success. The Business Hall of Fame serves as both a celebration of accomplished leaders and a testament to the value of mentorship and community leadership.
Port Freeport is a leading port in the export of crude oil and natural gas liquids and ranks nationally as 6th in chemicals, 14th in total foreign waterborne tonnage, and 26th in containers.  A 2022 Economic Impact Study by Texas A&M Transportation Institute revealed that, nationally, the Freeport Harbor Channel generates 266,300 jobs and has a total economic output of $157.3 billion.  Port Freeport serves Alliera, Atlantic Container Lines, AMPORTS, BASF, Chiquita Fresh N.A., Dole Fresh Fruit, The Dow Chemical Company, Enterprise Products Partners, ExxonMobil, Freeport LNG, Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Glovis, Grimaldi Lines, Hoegh Autoliners, Kirby Marine, Linde, MEGlobal, NYK RORO, Phillips 66, Riviana Foods, Inc., Sallaum Lines, Tenaris, U.S Department of Energy, Volkswagen Group of America, and Vulcan Materials Company.
Port Freeport is committed to keeping the local community informed of our operations and results. If you have questions or comments about this article, please email or call Amanda Veliz, Public Affairs Manager.