“Board of Directors” typically brings to mind a room full of business men and women in suits speaking in monotone about the affairs of their organization, but the Chamber Board of Directors doesn’t fit any such stereotype. The group is made up of active professionals who take pride in serving on a working Board as well as a governing Board. Their leadership and dedication contribute to the continued success of the many Chamber initiatives created to develop a better Valdosta-Lowndes County, as reflected in the 5-Star accreditation awarded for the second time to the Chamber in 2013.

Carl Holley, 2014 Chairman of the Board believes the Chamber’s success is due not only to the leadership of its highly involved Board, but also the countless volunteers who give of their time and efforts to Chamber activities. “It’s astounding to have so many people working hard to see this community grow stronger,” said Holley. “We have more than 200 volunteers serving on various boards and committees. I am humbled to serve as Chairman for an organization with so much support from local businesses.”

As 2014 comes to an end, outgoing leaders are paving the way for a bright and successful new year.

The Chamber is proud to announce the 2015 officers:

• Ron Borders (Real Living Realty), Chairman 2015
• James McGahee (retired), Chairman-Elect 2016 & Organizational Excellence Vice Chairman
• Michael Lee (Ameris Bank), Chairman-Elect 2017
• Marty LeFiles (LeFiles Valenti Financial Advisors, LLC), Treasurer
• Carl Holley (Fowler, Holley, Rambo & Stalvey, PC), Immediate Past Chairman & Business & Economic Development Vice Chairman
• Bruce Allred (Smith Drug Company), Community Development Vice Chairman
• Lee McArthur (Voya Financial), Member Services Vice Chairman
• Myrna Ballard, Chamber President

“2015 is going to be a very busy, very productive year for the Chamber,” said Chairman-Elect Ron Borders. “We have great momentum going, and we don’t have any intention of slowing down. There’s a lot to do in our community, so we’re going to hit the ground running and continue to address our challenges head on.” Borders previously served on the Board as Vice Chairman of Public Affairs. “Our community can expect an even stronger advocacy program, which is one of the most important functions of an active chamber.”

For more information about the Chamber Board of Directors or its volunteer efforts, please call (229) 247-8100 or visit www.ValdostaChamber.com.