HOUSTON, TX (June 1, 2020) – United Way of Greater Houston named Stephen Fraga, president of Tejas Office Products, Inc., as this year’s recipient of the distinguished Robert W. Kneebone Volunteer of the Year Award at its annual meeting on May 26. The Kneebone Award is the highest honor given to a United Way volunteer in recognition of extraordinary leadership and commitment to community service.
“Over the years I’ve witnessed the extraordinary commitment United Way of Greater Houston has to helping our neighbors thrive and improving the Greater Houston community,” said Fraga. “As a volunteer, this award is a great honor because it is given by the people I work alongside and admire greatly. I’m delighted and humbled to now be among a very distinguished group of men and women who have been recognized for their volunteer service.”
Fraga began his volunteer involvement with United Way of Greater Houston in 2013 when he was elected to the United Way board of trustees. During this time, he has served on the executive committee, executive compensation committee, strategic thinking executive committee and chaired the community impact committee.
“Stephen has been described as a north star to United Way for his ability to keep everyone focused on what is important in every decision we make – serving those in need,” said Amanda McMillian, president and CEO, United Way of Greater Houston. “As a true champion for the work of United Way and an advocate for those who struggle, Stephen has helped guide and steward our investments in services that reach people at the most critical moments of their lives.”
Stephen serves as chairman of the board of the Houston Sports Foundation and is currently a member of the audit committee of Memorial Hermann. He is a senior fellow of American Leadership Forum Class XXXIII and has served on the boards of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, Harris County-Houston Sports Authority and Memorial Hermann Foundation.
In 2004, Fraga was named President of Tejas Office Products, Inc., a family-owned and operated office products company that has been in the Houston area since 1962. Prior to joining Tejas Office Products, he worked for Texas Commerce Bank, now JP Morgan Chase, as a commercial middle-market banker.
Fraga earned a bachelor of business administration in finance from Texas A&M University. He is married to Michelle Martinez, an attorney, and together they have three sons, Gregory, Stephen, Jr. and Andrew.
About the United Way of Greater Houston
For nearly 100 years, United Way of Greater Houston has brought together diverse partners and approaches to address the complex challenges holding people back. We are a driving force for good that connects our neighbors with opportunities to thrive. We help our neighbors achieve financial stability. We provide services that support the physical and behavioral health of families and youth along with educational services that expand their skills and horizons. We provide a safety net that catches the most vulnerable. We manage every donation with care to make the greatest impact across the four-county region of Fort Bend, Harris, Montgomery and Waller counties. We connect neighbors with help 24/7 through our 211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE. For more information, please visit, www.unitedwayhouston.org.