Jordy Tollet. (Source: Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau)
The former president and CEO of the Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), Gerard Jay “Jordy” Tollett, died on Aug. 3 of natural causes.
Tollet – who was nicknamed “Mr. Downtown” for the crucial role he played in developing Houston’s downtown area, including such construction projects as the George R. Brown Convention Center and the Hilton Americas-Houston hotel – retired as president and CEO of the CVB in 2006.
Mayor Lee Patrick Brown named Tollett, 73, president and CEO of the Greater Houston CVB in 1998.
“Jordy was simply a giant in our industry, and his passion for Houston was unmatched. Through several leadership roles he served – sometimes all at once – he played a foundational role in establishing Houston’s profile on the national stage,” said Michael Heckman, president and CEO of First Houston, the city’s destination marketing organization.
“I believe the success we see today in the convention, tourism, and hospitality segments of our industry is due in large measure to Jordy’s vision and determination. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his legacy,” Heckman added. “Jordy’s influence on this community will continue to impact Houston for generations to come.”
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