Carrying over Harris County Department of Education’s (HCDE) theme from Convocation this past August, Choice Partners’ “Varsity” spirit was on full display for members and vendors during the division’s annual exhibit and luncheon.

Held April 10 at the Norris Conference Center, the showcase helps better connect members of the Choice Partners national purchasing cooperative with vendors who provide goods and services.

Living up to the day’s theme, attendees donned jerseys or apparel representing their school district or favorite sports team.

The day began with three “playbook” presentations, including Choice Partners Compliance and Construction Officer Stephen Kendrick and Senior Contract Manager Tami Cyrus leading a session on insights and strategies to navigate construction procurement.

Dr. Jesus Amezcua, former HCDE assistant superintendent of business services, presented on uniform guidance and administrative regulations. Choice Partners Procurement Consultants Lucia Cieszlak and Sylvia Zapata gave insight from director-level procurement perspectives.

Everyone then shifted to the exhibit center, where members met with vendor representatives and learned about products and services. The day closed with a networking lunch and door prizes handed out to selected winners.

Choice Partners purchasing cooperative offers quality, legal procurement, and contract solutions to meet government purchasing requirements. The team has secured record revenue over the last few fiscal years, an achievement that directly benefits area students and educators.