SMU Executive Brad Cheves Appointed as New President of Dallas Regional Chamber
The Dallas Regional Chamber (DRC) has named Brad Cheves as its next president and chief executive officer, tapping a longtime figure from Southern Methodist University (SMU) to lead the influential business organization. Cheves, who has served as SMU’s Vice President for Development and External Affairs since 2004, succeeds Dale Petroskey, who led the chamber for ten years prior to his retirement.
Cheves is best known for his extensive background in high-level fundraising and institutional advancement. During his tenure at SMU, he orchestrated significant capital campaigns, including the “SMU Ignited” initiative, which successfully raised more than $1 billion. His selection signals the Chamber’s prioritization of strong relationship-building and resource acquisition capabilities. Addressing his new role and the future of the North Texas business climate, Cheves noted his generally positive outlook, stating, “I tend to be an optimistic guy.”
However, the appointment is not without potential hurdles. Observers note that Cheves is moving from a specialized focus on higher education advancement to the broader, multifaceted arena of regional economic development. Unlike traditional economic developers who specialize in tax incentives and site selection, Cheves’ background is rooted in donor relations. He takes the helm at a critical time when the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex faces growing pains that accompany rapid expansion, including housing affordability issues, infrastructure strain, and the need for workforce development. The incoming president will face immediate pressure to demonstrate that his fundraising prowess can translate effectively to policy advocacy and corporate recruitment in a competitive national market.
