Dr. Rochelle Lewis
Vice President of Integrated Operations
Next Level Urgent Care
1. What motivated you to join the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?
The ability to serve on a Board with like-minded female executives who are all committed to the empowerment of women is what motivated me to join.
2. In your opinion, what sets the Chamber apart from other organizations?
The Chamber empowers women through invaluable programming, often focused on education and the advancement of woman-owned businesses. I always come away from Chamber events feeling inspired.
3. Can you describe a specific program or initiative led by the Chamber that has made a significant difference in the lives of women and girls in Houston?
The Conference for Women was one of the most profound experiences that I have had while being on the Board. I had the opportunity to hear compelling accounts from experts in various fields and network with women across a spectrum of professional backgrounds.
4. What do you see as the most significant challenges that women and girls face in the business world today, and how does the Chamber address those challenges?
The most significant challenge facing women’s and girls in the business world today is exposure and access. The Chamber places women at the table, allowing for our ideas to be proliferated in rooms where decisions are made. Through the Chamber, you are given access to make a real difference in how women are perceived in business.
5. In your experience, what are the key benefits that members of the Chamber receive, and how does the organization support their professional and personal growth?
One of the key benefits that members of the Chamber receive is the chance to network and share ideas with women they might not otherwise cross paths with. The organization supports professional and personal growth through initiatives like thought leaders and also provides mentoring opportunities, allowing members to grow through developing young girls.
6. Can you share a memorable success story of a woman who has been positively impacted by the Chamber’s programs and services, or how the Chamber has personally impacted you?
The Chamber allowed me to form what I believe are going to be life long bonds with women I would not have met on my own. Through Board meetings and programs, I have found women that are willing to mentor me professionally and personally. In return, I have come away with the desire to offer myself as a mentor to other women.
7. Can you provide a brief overview of your career journey and the path that led you to your current position?
My journey began in government, lobbying state and local entities for a large public hospital in Miami. The COO of the hospital encouraged me to pursue operations management. Taking his advice led me to my current position as a VP of Integrated Operations today.
8. Looking back on your career, what are some of the most valuable lessons you have learned?
One of the most profound things I have learned is to develop and maintain relationships. Relationships are the key to advancing both personally and professionally. As the saying goes, “It’s not what you know, It’s who you know.”
9. As a successful leader in your field, what advice do you have for the next generation of aspiring professionals, particularly women, who are striving to make an impact in their industry?
Be fearless. As women, we often talk ourselves out of pursuing opportunities we know we deserve. Whether it’s for fear of failure or fear of actually mastering something new, it can be easy to choose the more comfortable route. I have found, that by choosing the more challenging paths, you are proving yourself worthy of the opportunities you deserve.
10. Who has been a source of inspiration for you, both personally and professionally?
My inspiration will always be my family. I have an overwhelming desire to make them proud. I know that the accomplishments I achieve are all reflective on my family and my legacy.
11. As a leader in the business community, what legacy do you aspire to leave behind?
I want to leave behind a legacy of excellence. In approaching all I do with integrity and grit, I hope to inspire women in the business community to challenge themselves beyond what they think they’re capable of.