Rockwall, TX – January 6, 2025 – The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to introduce three new board members beginning January 1, 2025. Serving in a three-year term, The Chamber welcomes Rob McAngus of Mueller Family Law Group and Lauren Podina of Orthopaedic Specialists of Dallas. Steve Torres of The Traveling TORO will serve a one-year appointment.
Each board member plays a crucial role in advancing the Chamber’s mission to champion and support local business and tourism, foster community engagement, and enhance the economic vitality of the Rockwall area. The Chamber is delighted to welcome the following individuals to its 2025 Board of Directors:
Incoming Board Members:
Rob McAngus, Mueller Family Law Group
Lauren Podina, Orthopaedic Specialists of Dallas
Steve Torres, The Traveling TORO
2025 Executive Committee:
Chairman: Lesli Y. Johnson, Rest Haven Funeral Home
Chairman Elect: Jeremy Neill, Hanby Insurance
Past Chairman: Shane Hollas, Maaco of Rockwall
Treasurer: Kayne Pierce, Happy State Bank
Secretary: Kelli Delozier, HomeBank Texas
President & CEO: Darby Nielsen, Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center
Returning Board of Directors:
Alison Belliveau, Rockwall ISD
Donas Cole, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Lake Pointe
Kevin Hadawi, Wells Fargo Advisors
Gerald Hendrik, Rockwall Wealth Advisors
Brady Z. Hill, Farmers Insurance
Eva Hummel, ATMOS Energy Corporation
Jason Linscott, Texas Health Hospital Rockwall
Frank McLeod, Minuteman Press – Rockwall
Trevor Reed, Volkert, Inc.
David Sweet, City Of Rockwall
Justin Weiss, East Texas A&M University
Jerry Welch, Jerry Welch – Ebby Halliday
Roger Williamson, Williamson Foundation Repair
These notable individuals bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and passion to the Chamber Board of Directors. Not only do they most accurately represent Rockwall’s diverse business community, but they also advocate for over 12,000 local employees and our over 750 valued partners that make up the Chamber’s membership. The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce would also like to sincerely thank this year’s outgoing board members for their outstanding service and dedication throughout their tenure. A heartfelt thanks to:
Outgoing Board of Directors:
– Rick Bernas, Republic Services
– Melaney Loar, Regal Realtors
– Ben Northcutt, Milestone Services
– Barry Street, Pegasus Foods
– Kim Timpa, The Timpa Law Office
Ex-Officio Directors:
– Dana Macalik, Rockwall County Commissioner
– Christopher Lynch, Rockwall County Elections
– Mayor David Billings, City of Fate
– Mayor Jeremiah McClure, City of Heath
– Mayor Bryan McNeal, City of McLendon Chisholm
– Dr. John “JJ” Villarreal, Rockwall ISD
– Phil Wagner, Rockwall Economic Development Corporation
“As we step into 2025, we are inspired by the opportunities ahead and the potential to make an even greater impact in our community,” said President and CEO Darby Nielsen, “We are excited to partner with each of our Board members on this journey and can’t wait to see all that we will accomplish this year!”
The contributions and leadership of the outgoing and ex-officio board members have greatly added to the Chamber’s success. The Chamber is grateful for their valuable insights and tireless efforts on behalf of Rockwall’s local economy. The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce looks ahead with excitement for the new opportunities and challenges 2025 will bring. The Chamber is confident that the newly appointed Board of Directors will continue to drive growth, innovation, and legacy for its valued Chamber partners and the entire Rockwall area.
About the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce:
The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization serving over 750 businesses and organizations in Rockwall and its surrounding area. It is our mission to champion and support local business and tourism, foster community engagement, and enhance the economic vitality of the Rockwall area. Our vision is to be the destination for excellence in member services, community collaboration, business growth, and tourism, ensuring a thriving and vibrant community.
You can learn more by visiting the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce website at rockwallchamber.org or calling the office at 972-771-5733. Join the Chamber today and become part of a thriving community dedicated to business excellence and economic advancement! Together, we can achieve great things in Rockwall.
