As the West Houston Association begins a new year of programming, advocacy, and collaboration, we are pleased to announce new leadership for our Board of Directors and welcome a new member whose experience and perspective will further strengthen our organization’s work across the region.
These leadership transitions reflect WHA’s continued commitment to thoughtful growth, strong governance, and bringing together professionals who understand both the challenges and opportunities facing the Greater West Houston region and beyond.
Harry Masterson Named Board Chair
WHA is proud to welcome Harry Masterson as our new Board Chair.
Harry serves a Managing Principal of EMBER, a real estate investment and development firm he has led for the past decade. With a career in real estate that spans back to the late 1990s, Harry brings deep experience in development, market dynamics, and long-term community planning. His professional background gives him a strong appreciation for how infrastructure, land use, and public policy intersect to shape successful communities.
Harry is also well known for his leadership across the Houston region. In 2013 he served as President of the Greater Houston Builders Association, where he worked closely with public and private sector partners to address housing, regulatory, and growth-related issues impacting the region. In 2015-2016 he served as Board Chair of Scenic Houston, helping advance initiatives focused on beautification, urban design, and the visual character of our community. In 2010 Harry was recognized by GHBA as “Developer of the Year” and in 2024 he received the Lifetime Trustee Award from GHBA’s HOME-PAC.
Throughout his career, Harry has demonstrated a steady, thoughtful leadership style rooted in collaboration and problem-solving. His ability to bring diverse stakeholders to the table and keep conversations focused on long-term outcomes aligns closely with WHA’s mission. As Chair, he will play a key role in guiding the organization as it continues to engage on issues such as mobility, flood resilience, infrastructure investment, and responsible development.
Elizabeth York Named Vice Chair
Joining Harry in leadership is Elizabeth York, who has been named Vice Chair of the WHA Board.
Elizabeth serves as Senior Vice President and General Counsel at Johnson Development, where she has worked for more than 20 years. Her legal expertise and institutional knowledge have made her a trusted advisor within one of the region’s most respected development firms, particularly on matters involving land use, real estate transactions, and complex regulatory environments.
In 2012, the Houston Business Journal recognized Elizabeth as Outstanding Solo General Counsel of the Year, a reflection of both her professional excellence and her reputation within the legal and development communities. In 2025 she received Texas Association of Builders Presidential Distinguished Service Award for exceptional leadership and commitment to the homebuilding industry. She is also deeply engaged in the broader Houston civic landscape and is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the Houston Bar Association, where she has served as Chair of the Real Estate Section.
Elizabeth brings a thoughtful, analytical approach to leadership, along with a strong appreciation for the role organizations like WHA play in convening stakeholders and advancing regional priorities. Her experience navigating complex development and legal issues will be invaluable as WHA continues its work on quality growth, infrastructure planning, and policy engagement.
Welcoming New Board Member Alan Black
WHA is also pleased to welcome Alan Black as the newest member of our Board of Directors.
Alan serves as Vice President at Quiddity and currently holds the role of Vice Chair of WHA’s Flood Control and Drainage Committee, where he has already been an active and engaged contributor. With more than 25 years of professional experience, Alan brings deep technical expertise and a strong understanding of the infrastructure challenges facing the Houston region.
Prior to joining Quiddity, Alan served with the Harris County Flood Control District, where he helped lead a department of more than 350 employees during a period of unprecedented growth and played a key part in implementing the multibillion-dollar bond program focused on reducing flood risk across Harris County. His ability to build collaboration, communicate effectively across agencies, and guide large-scale programs through challenging economic and operational conditions has made him a respected leader in the region’s flood mitigation community.
In 2024, Alan Black was awarded the WHA Compass Award for his outstanding work and service to WHA initiatives like Houston Stronger. His experience, coupled with his ongoing involvement in WHA’s flood and drainage initiatives, makes him a valuable addition to the Board as the organization continues to advocate for resilient infrastructure and long-term solutions.
Looking Ahead
WHA is fortunate to have these folks as part of a leadership team that reflects both continuity and forward momentum. With Harry Masterson as Chair, Elizabeth York as Vice Chair, and Alan Black joining the Board, the organization is well-positioned to continue advancing thoughtful, data-driven solutions that support responsible growth across Greater West Houston.
We look forward to the years ahead and are grateful for the time, expertise, and dedication these leaders bring to the West Houston Association and the communities we serve.