At the time, Round Rock was a quiet farming community with just over 1,000 residents who called the town home.
These individuals envisioned a place where community, commerce and character could thrive together. Their vision still resonates throughout the city today.
“When you look at the growth of Round Rock, it’s been intentional,” chamber CEO Jordan Robinson said. “Our community leaders from decades ago imagined a place where people could live, work and raise a family without sacrificing the character that makes Round Rock special. We’re proud to continue that work today.”
A legacy of growth and development
On Oct. 3, 1949, a small group of business leaders gathered for the Chamber’s very first board meeting to formally establish the organization and chart a vision for Round Rock’s growth. The meeting was led by W.E. Henna, the Chamber’s first board chair and a driving force in shaping the city’s future.
At the time, Round Rock was a tranquil bedroom community, but the founders saw the need for a united voice to champion growth and opportunity. By the end of the 1950s, their work was evident, as the city’s population nearly doubled.
By 1994, Round Rock’s upward trajectory was enough for Dell Technologies to choose Round Rock for its global headquarters. This decision transformed the city into a regional economic powerhouse and put it on the world stage. Dell’s presence created thousands of jobs, spurred rapid population growth and attracted new industries, solidifying Round Rock’s reputation as a center for innovation and opportunity.
This inflection point helped springboard Round Rock and the Chamber into decades of transformative growth.
Building on a legacy of vision
Visionary leaders have guided Round Rock’s growth, and for 75 years, the Chamber has linked their vision to today’s opportunities.
From its earliest days, the Chamber worked to bring people, ideas and resources together, creating an environment where businesses and entrepreneurs thrive.
Dell’s arrival set the stage for major developments, including the Dell Diamond (home to the Round Rock Express Minor League Baseball team), Bass Pro Shop, Round Rock Premium Outlets, Emerson and La Frontera. The success of those cornerstone developments helped pave the way for major tourist and convention attraction Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, as well as The District, a 65-acre mixed-use development currently under construction.
Each success built on the last’s opportunities, showing how the Chamber’s resources and support help turn vision into momentum that shapes the city.
Cheers to the next 75 years!
As Round Rock grows, the Chamber is ready to lead the next chapter.
“It’s been so rewarding to watch the Chamber mature and increase its impact on so many parts of our community,” said Selicia Sanchez-Adame, 2025 Round Rock Chamber Board Chair and lifelong Round Rock resident. “Our focus on connecting and supporting small businesses, young professionals, budding startups, expanding corporations, workforce educators — it’s such meaningful work to give current and future generations the opportunity to put down roots and thrive here.”
The Chamber’s upcoming move to Main Street, into the historic Griffith Building, places it at the heart of downtown, making it more accessible and visible to the community. From this location, the organization can strengthen connections among businesses, leaders and residents, foster new opportunities, and play a significant role in guiding Round Rock’s economic growth for the years ahead.
The Chamber is building on past momentum with programs nurturing entrepreneurship, workforce development and community engagement, and driving economic development for the City of Round Rock. It is ensuring each new opportunity grows from the foundation laid by visionary leaders and becomes a path for future generations.
Are you ready to shape Round Rock’s next 75 years? Join the Chamber to help build the future of the community. To learn about joining, click here. For the Round Rock Chamber, visit https://roundrockchamber.org.
The above story was produced by Community Impact's Multi-Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel, with information solely provided by the local business as part of its "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
