Evelyn Sames wins 2026 Laredo Business ICONS award

May 12, 2026 - 19:15

The Laredo Chamber of Commerce has awarded the 2026 Business Person of the Year title to Evelyn Sames, CEO of Sames Auto Group. The announcement came during the chamber's annual Business ICONS award ceremony, which recognizes local leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to economic growth and community service.

Sames, who has led the family-owned auto group for over a decade, was praised for expanding the company's footprint while maintaining a strong focus on employee development and customer relations. Under her leadership, Sames Auto Group has grown to include multiple dealerships and service centers across the region, creating hundreds of jobs.

Beyond business, Sames is known for her philanthropic work. She has been a driving force behind several local initiatives, including scholarship programs for high school students and partnerships with nonprofit organizations that support veterans and underserved families. Chamber officials noted that her ability to balance profitability with community impact made her a standout choice.

In her acceptance speech, Sames credited her team and the city of Laredo for the honor. "This award is not just about me. It reflects the hard work of every employee at Sames Auto Group and the support of a community that believes in collaboration," she said.

The Business ICONS award is one of the chamber's highest honors, and Sames joins a list of past recipients who have shaped Laredo's business landscape. The chamber highlighted her vision for sustainable growth and her role in mentoring young entrepreneurs as key reasons for the selection.