Our Impact
The 2024–2025 programmatic year marked a period of unprecedented growth for the Houston Center for Photography across all areas of focus—Exhibitions, Education, and Community Engagement.
From significantly increased attendance in our galleries (up nearly 13% over the previous year), to delivering 35 community-partnered programs (almost doubling our prior impact), it is clear that HCP’s reach is expanding—locally, nationally, and globally.
Our Education program experienced historic growth—unparalleled in the life of the organization. Alongside our exceptional lineup of courses and workshops, we introduced a new certificate program, designed directly in response to the evolving needs and aspirations of our students.
Our updated Membership model was met with enthusiasm, resulting in a 55% increase at the individual level. On the financial front, donor and grant support grew by 4.5%, and our earned revenue rose by an impressive 41%. These numbers not only reflect a healthy and thriving institution but underscore the value the public sees in HCP’s mission.
And yet, numbers tell only part of the story…
The real impact of our work lies in the lives we touch: the ongoing encouragement from our founders, the energy and joy of our FotoFuture teens, and the many image-makers and photography enthusiasts who find community, inspiration, and opportunity within HCP. These intangible outcomes—difficult to quantify—are at the heart of why we do what we do.
This past year also brought meaningful moments that honored our roots. In fall 2024, we renamed our third gallery space the HOU Gallery at HCP—a dedicated venue for Houston and Texas-based photographers. This space now proudly presents solo exhibitions that celebrate and elevate local talent.
And in August 2025, our Board of Directors confirmed the establishment of the Friends & Founders Circle—a formal recognition of those who built and sustained this organization from the beginning. This group includes our founders, former Board Presidents, Advisory Council members, and past Executive Directors—individuals whose leadership and commitment helped shape HCP into what it is today. As Executive Director and steward of this remarkable organization, I am honored to share these milestones with you. Our team works tirelessly to create programming that serves photographers at all stages—whether they are picking up a camera for the first time or are seasoned professionals, passionate supporters, or dedicated collectors.
As we look ahead, we are preparing to launch our capital campaign—a bold step toward securing a permanent, purpose-built campus for the Houston Center for Photography. This vision for our future is rooted in the successes and lessons of this incredible year.
Sincerely,
Anne Leighton Massoni
Executive Director & Curator
