As a Madison County native, Abby Lee Casey knows the power of the Rocket City. Huntsville, once a hidden gem on the Tennessee River, has transformed into a technology and U.S. military defense hub. While serving as an Emissary and ChamberON Volunteer for the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, Abby Lee has had a front row seat to many of these changes.

Through her service with the Chamber, Abby Lee gets the privilege of connecting North Alabama businesses with each other. She’s seen firsthand how strong relationships fuel growth for these organizations and the Tennessee Valley.

Abby Lee has over a decade of sales experience and currently is the Director of Sponsorship Sales at the Von Braun Center (VBC). In this role, she secures partnerships for the VBC owned events and offers onsite advertising opportunities for businesses looking to grow their local reach.

She graduated in the top 5% of her class at the University of Alabama with a degree in Commerce and Business Administration (and is a passionate Crimson Tide fan). Abby Lee and her husband, Craig, reside in Fayetteville, TN with their children, Bailey and Brady, and their dog, Bentley James.

Stewart Schuerr has worked in the office equipment industry for over 20 years. Since 2015, he has served as the Division President for the JT Ray Company. Before moving into the office solutions industry, Stewart worked as a software programmer with interactive projects for public and private sector customers, including projects with Honda, Nasa and Mercedes.

With his background in software development, the transition into the office automation world was a perfect fit. Over the years, the industry has evolved from simple copy, fax and print capabilities to software as a service (SAS) offerings. The JT Ray Company serves the North Alabama and North Mississippi areas.

He has been involved as a Chamber representative in the North Alabama area since 2015 and has been an Ambassador since 2016. He currently serves on the Board of Governors for Valley Hill County Club. In his private time Stewart enjoys playing golf, spending time with his wife, two Grandchildren and family.

Erica’s welcoming smile and eager ear, attributed to her rapid growth within the hospitality industry. She’s a Huntsville native and a Faulkner University graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.

Erica thrives on professional development, which is evident by her involvement in numerous organizations. Currently, she serves as an Emissary for the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, Board Member on the Redstone-Huntsville Chapter of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA), and a proud member of the Rocket City Alabama Chapter of the Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP). Erica also serves as a Trustee on the SGMP Sam Gilmer Institute of Learning (GIL) Fundraising Board. She was named the 2023 Sam Gilmer Supplier of the Year and is a past recipient of the prestigious Huntsville-Madison County Hospitality Association Red Ribbon Award for Community Service. As Convention Sales Manager, she manages government, military reunions, and fraternal markets. She is responsible for promoting the Rocket City as a charismatic, unique, meeting, event, and convention city. Erica’s most valued time is spent with her family and serving her community.

Susie Brock began her Marketing career in Madison MS in 1996 when she answered an ad in the newspaper, asking for Part Time workers that had a good phone voice. Since that day in 1996 she has created produced and implement award winning campaigns for Godwin Group Advertising Agency and Sourelink. She relocated to Huntsville AL with her family in 2010.

With a career spanning over two decades, Susie has been a stalwart in the ever-evolving field of marketing. From the early days of traditional advertising to the digital revolution, she not only witnessed the shift but has been at the forefront, navigating and driving change. This quality has not only defined her career but has become a guiding principle in her life, inspiring others to approach change as an opportunity for growth. Her expertise in branding, strategic planning, production, and consumer engagement has cited her ability to inspire teams and navigate the complexities of the industry with finesse.

In her current role as an Account Executive at Rocket City Broadcasting, Susie continues to shape the marketing landscape, leveraging her wealth of experience to drive success for both clients and her team. Whether she’s spearheading an event, a radio ad or a digital campaign, Susie remains dedicated to making a difference both in her professional career and her personal growth.

Additionally, Susie loves living in Huntsville. This is evident in her deep involvement in the community and the enjoyment she derives from her surroundings. When she is not working you can find her on the tennis courts indulging in her love for the sport. Her active participation in tennis highlights her competitive nature to always striving to be better and her commitment to maintaining a happy, healthy, balanced lifestyle.

Stephen was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama. He received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management from Athens State University. He is a Project Management Professional with over 10 years of Utility Experience.

In his current role as a Key Account Representative, he manages over 50 of Huntsville Utilities’ largest Commercial & Industrial customers.

He is going into his 4th year in the Chamber Ambassador & Emissary Program. This will be his first year as an Emissary. He previously held positions as Ambassador and then Ambassador lead in 2023.

Stephen and his wife Rachel live in Gurley, AL with their daughter Avery and two dogs.

John Buckley is a Senior Business Development Analyst at JRC Integrated Systems since 2020. As a Senior Business Development Analyst, his primary efforts are focused on identifying bid opportunities by engaging with other potential industry partners and DoD and Federal agencies to generate new business and sales by leading the team in the pursuit of various opportunities. In addition, John leads capture campaigns, black hat reviews, attending trade shows to increase visibility of the organization, customer visits, strategy development, color team reviews, complex bid responses, and negotiate with industry partners and customers.

John Buckley completed his Bachelor of Accountancy in Accounting from the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) in 1991 and completed studies for the Master of Business Administration from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. His graduate work focused on Acquisition and Contracting. John retired from the Navy in 2020 and served 30 years as a Supply Corps Officer supporting submarines and amphibious assault ships.

In addition, he represents JRC as a Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador since 2021 and was chosen to serve as a Chamber Emissary for the 2024 calendar year. The Ambassador and Emissary Programs allow Chamber members to become more engaged with the community. Chamber Ambassadors are individuals who help represent and promote the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, as well as promote their own business to other companies. Chamber Emissaries are chosen individuals who act as messengers to advocate the Chamber to current members.

Furthermore, John has been chosen to serve as a Catalyst Center Board member for the 2024 calendar year. The Catalyst is open to any business-minded individual, we provide resources to foster success for entrepreneurs and small businesses aspiring to get started, achieve growth, or take their ideas to the next level. We aim to provide best-in-class coaching, in-demand services, and relevant program events to enable success for anyone having an entrepreneurial spirit or wanting to embrace a small business journey.

He enjoys pickleball, hiking, kayaking, and supporting local live mu

Katie Burroughs is a Huntsville native and has been with the Von Braun Center since January of 2009. Since then, she has held many roles with her current position being Senior Sales Manager. As part of her job, she travels to other cities to help bring conferences to the Rocket City. She also works with local groups planning parties, fundraisers, galas, really anything you can think of we have probably done it. With over 140,000 square feet of meeting space, we can accommodate many groups at the same time.

Katie has been booking the Chamber’s events for almost 10 years now. It wasn’t until 2020 that she became more involved with the Chamber and joined the Ambassador program. This is her first year as an Emissary and she is so excited to be more involved and work with some of the best in Huntsville.

Ron is President/Owner of CIMSgts, a dynamic organization that provides document management, automated forms processing, workflow, and custom database applications solutions. He is a seasoned expert on technology innovation that improves workplace efficiency. Ron helps companies find opportunities to evaluate internal and external workflow business practices, and then launches new solutions designed to seize these opportunities to increase workplace efficiencies. Improving the workplace by making it more efficient creates a workplace that everyone loves, and performance is maximized.

Ron’s educational background includes a Bachelors of Electrical Engineering from the University of Tennessee and a Masters in Electrical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.

Ron has over 30 years of technical experience in helping organizations evaluate and implement the process improvements required that truly propel companies in their pursuit of excellence in the fast paced and changing business world.

Jared Francis currently serves as COO with Applewhite Movers which is a locally owned and minority operated company located in the Tennessee Valley which has been established since 2011. He has been in this role since 2015. In his position, he oversees the overall day-to-day operations of the company. His focus is establishing great working partnerships in the community and being a trusted and dependable resource for Individuals, families and businesses who require relocation services.

Before his transition into his current role, he served as the Program Director for a National non-profit organization located in Huntsville. Community outreach is one of his passions and so he has made it a company mandate to serve our local community through time and by providing financial resources. He has also served on a few local boards as well.

Jared joined the Chamber of Commerce in 2017 and then became an Ambassador in 2019. As a result, he has established great working business relationships. Jared looks forward to serving the Chamber as an Emissary in 2024.

LeJuan George is a dedicated business professional with over 27 years of combined marketing and business development experience. He has served the North Alabama community for numerous years as Marketing Coordinator for the Better Business Bureau of North Alabama. Currently, he is the Senior Business Development Officer of Alabama’s largest credit union - Redstone Federal Credit Union, holding a Credit Union Business Development Professional Certification (CUBPD) from the Credit Union National Association. During his tenure with RFCU, he has held many marketing, corporate & community relations roles all designed to help the Huntsville and surrounding business community succeed.

LeJuan yields savvy articulation and business acumen skills. He understands the pitfalls and challenges businesses face day-to-day. Therefore, each interaction with clients is always met with the intent to help and foster a business relationship built on partnership principles of quick follow-up, respect, and trust.

Originally from Birmingham, AL, he has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing from Alabama A&M University. He is a member of Union Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. Having several hobbies, he most enjoys a wanderlust life - national and international, a penchant for health/fitness, and volunteering with the Huntsville Arts Council.

Crystal Gilreath serves as a Business Relationship Officer for Redstone Federal Credit Union in Huntsville, Alabama. In her role, she focuses on being a trusted and dependable commercial lending resource for individuals, small businesses, and large corporations helping them achieve their financial goals.

Crystal has over 19 years of financial service experience in multiple capacities within the local economic market. She is a graduate of Athens State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management and Human Resource Management.

Crystal Joined the Huntsville Chamber of Commerce Ambassador/Emissary Program in 2014 and has had the privilege of meeting many extraordinary people. She stays active in the local community as a volunteer with Junior Achievement, a Member of the Arab Chamber Board of Directors, and the Huntsville Chamber Emissary Program. Crystal enjoys spending quality time with her husband and 4 sweet children. She and her husband have been together for 21 years this May - her children are Elliott at five, Emma at two, and Kate and Henry are twins at one. She lives on a 40-acre farm in Arab, AL, with cattle, pigs, goats, ducks, chickens, miniature donkeys, miniature Zebus, and of course our dogs. Crystal is inspired by life’s endless possibilities and determined to make a positive impact and legacy.

A Full-Time, Full-Service Realtor, Karen Harrison has a proven track record of success in the real estate market since 1999. References can be made available per your request. She strives to stay ahead of the status quo in knowledge of the local real estate market as well as familiarity of loan products. Looking to sell? Karen will sit down with you and discuss a detailed, results-oriented market plan that will be innovative and aggressive in helping you achieve your goals. Karen's sellers achieve near and above asking price for their properties. If you are looking to purchase, Karen will provide you with comparable sales information and market conditions at her disposal to help you make a well-informed decision. It is of the highest importance to Karen that you know she will work with care and confidence to maximize the value of your real estate investment.

Vice-President/Retail Market Leader/Business Banker
Synovus Bank
301 Washington Street N, Huntsville, AL 35801
256-551-3329
[email protected]


Scott Hulgan is the Retail Market Leader for Synovus over the Huntsville and Madison Markets. He has served the Huntsville and Madison Banking Communities since 2003 in the areas of Small Business, Commercial, Private & Wealth, Mortgage, and Retail Banking, Lending as well as Branch Leadership. The opportunity to wake up every day, come to work in the best city in America, and truly live his passion of making a difference in his Community is what drives him. With experience and expertise that truly set him apart from his competitors, Scott works to help every client he encounters to reach their individual financial goals.

Scott brings to his Community and his position with Synovus a unique set of skills. His diversity in banking as well as his familiarity with the Huntsville and Madison Markets, allow him to provide consultative advice enabling his clients to succeed not only in business, but also in their personal financial journey. Scott believes the most important factor in any relationship is that it never matters to people how much you know, until those people know how much you care. It is that quality caring that positively effects a Community, one business at a time.

Scott graduated from Jacksonville State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance. He lives in the Blossomwood Community with his wife Valerie and their 3 children, Megan, Ryan, & Kate. He is a Member of the First United Methodist Church. He enjoys camping, Sports with kids, Boating, Traveling, RC Hobbies, and volunteering at the Chamber.

As an experienced, professional business executive and master networker/relationship-builder, Dave Knowles is honored and excited to return to serving as an Emissary for the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce. Originally trained as an educator, since 2002 he has provided sales and marketing expertise to two highly visible local companies – as the Director of Sales at the high-quality, niche publications Who’s Who in Huntsville and Who’s Who in Huntsville Technology magazines and as the Sales and Marketing Director at nationally/locally recognized LEAN Frog Business Solutions, Inc. He is now pleased to be the Community Liaison for Rosenblum Realty.

Since 1957, Rosenblum Realty has offered realtor services in residential sales and leasing, property management, and commercial sales and leasing in the Huntsville/North Alabama area. A family-owned, fourth generation, award-winning business, Rosenblum Realty is known for its professionalism and integrity.

Dave is also actively involved in the All Saints Lutheran Church’s “Outreach Committee – Kitchen Ministry”.

Jennifer Middleton grew up in Huntsville Alabama and graduated from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa in 1996. She has worked in the hospitality industry for 28 years for brands such as Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Choice, Radisson, Sonesta covering everything from Full-Service, Limited Service, Conference Center Hotels, and her favorite…extended stays. She currently works as the Director of Sales at the award winning Sonesta Simply Suites Huntsville - Research Park where she has been putting heads in beds for 8+ years with her can-do attitude and positively outrageous service.

She has served on numerous boards including the Huntsville/Madison County Hospitality Association for which she currently serves as Past President and Chair of the Advisory Council. She is a long-time member of SGMP where she currently serves as Gilmer Institute of Learning Scholarship and Certification Trustee for the National Board. She earned her CGMP in 2023 (Certified Government Meeting Professional), GMS (Government Meetings Specialist) Certificate in 2022 and CHSP in 2020 (Certified Hospitality Sales Professional).

Continuing education and expertise in her field is a top priority. She has been married to Chris for 24 years and has a daughter Hannah, 22 and Raegan who is in 7th grade at the Academy for Academics and Arts. When she is not putting heads in beds or working for HMCHA or SGMP, she is serving on her kid’s AAA Dance and Academy Children’s Theatre boards and doing whatever else she can’t say no to…

A 1983 graduate of Daniel Webster College in Nashua, NH with a BS in Business Management Jeff brings his years of experience in the Information Technology industry along with his Networking expertise in business. Jeff started JEDORI PC Services, Inc. in 2001 bringing IT Services to Huntsville and, envisioning a need for more resources, purchased a Computer Troubleshooters Franchise in 2004. Since then, Jeff has grown his business through the Chamber of Commerce and Networking and, in the meantime, earned the “2018 Franchisee of the Year”. He continues to grow his business through adding Cyber Security and much more.

A volunteer with the Chamber since 2002, Jeff has used his experience to not only grow his business but, also, assist others through mentoring and training to grow their business.

Pat Schwerman is a true entrepreneur. She has started multiple businesses whenever she saw an opportunity that she could capitalize on. One of her more successful companies was PartyWorks, an independent retail party supply store in Huntsville, AL. She operated PartyWorks for 25 years, responsible for the marketing, accounting, and managing the myriad responsibilities of a successful small business, which included talent management and balloon artistry. She attended balloon college on the campus of University of Georgia, and was known for her innovative decorations, even decorating the Davidson Center for the 90th birthday of Alan Sheppard.

Upon divesting of that business, she became a real estate professional where she has been able to buy and manage multiple commercial properties and operates as the CFO of those and other business opportunities in which she engages. In conjunction, she and her husband have a consulting business that provides advice and guidance to young, starting entrepreneurs, mid-level professionals in logistics and other businesses - and even providing support to local cyber security organizations in North Alabama. To summarize her career and aspirations, she has become a world traveler, seeking out like-minded people in such diverse places as Scotland, China, the United States.

Andrea Simpson AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, NOMA, IIDA
329th African American Female Licensed Architect in the US
Architecture & Design (A+D) Regional Market Manager
OSCO | turnerboone, Authorized Haworth Dealership

Andrea Simpson is a licensed architect in Huntsville, AL. Receiving her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Auburn University in 2005, Andrea practiced architecture in a traditional setting for 10 years; working for reputable firms such as Gensler and HEERY International in Atlanta, GA. In 2015 she decided to pursue a career in the commercial furniture industry. This transition allowed her to leverage her past experiences and seamlessly collaborate with architects and designers.

You can find her at OSCO | turnerboone, the local Haworth dealership, providing a holistic design approach for clients by applying her knowledge of construction and building design to create thoughtful interior solutions. Andrea understands there are many factors to consider beyond furniture when an organization is thinking about moving or updating an existing space. She excels at developing case studies, space planning, and workplace solutions that fit the function of each individual client. As a consultant in the corporate furniture industry, Andrea strives to educate clients on how a great work environment can promote productivity, wellness and employee retention.

Andrea spends her free time with her family and loving husband, Neville Simpson. They enjoy traveling and college football games. As philanthropists of The Boys and Girls Club and Tuskegee University, they freely support financially and with their time. In 2020 Neville and Andrea partnered with the Madison County Department of Human Resources and began to serve as licensed foster parents to children throughout the North Alabama region.

Additionally, Andrea proudly serves her profession as an elected member to the AIA Alabama (American Institute of Architects) Board of Directors and the IIDA (International Interior Design Association) Board of Directors for the state of Alabama.

Jennifer Thomas is a seasoned financial service professional with a remarkable track record of over 16 years in Retail Banking, Consumer/Commercial Lending, and Branch Management/Operations. Currently serving as a dedicated Branch Manager and Loan Officer at Alabama Credit Union in Huntsville, AL, Jennifer is committed to delivering top-notch financial solutions to her valued members. Alabama Credit Union, a prestigious full-service financial institution, operates with a strong mission to enrich the lives of their members and team members, as well as contribute to the betterment of their communities. Guided by a set of core behaviors, Alabama Credit Union stands firm on principles such as We've Got Your Back, We Get It Right, We'll Earn Your Smile, We Never Settle for Less, and We Engage Our World.

Jennifer is a passionate advocate for her community and an enthusiastic financial literacy educator. She firmly believes that a strong foundation in financial knowledge can empower individuals to achieve their life goals and transform their lives. One of her most fulfilling experiences has been teaching financial literacy to soon-to-be parole inmates at the Limestone County Correctional Facility. Jennifer strongly believes that everyone deserves access to the necessary tools for financial success. In the Huntsville/Madison County community, Jennifer has made a significant impact as an Ambassador and now serves as an Emissary with the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber. She is also a member of the Global Women’s Leadership Network and a devoted member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women-Greater Huntsville Area Chapter. Additionally, Jennifer has been a part of the esteemed Leadership Greater Huntsville’s Management Academy-Class 14…best class ever. Volunteering is a true passion for Jennifer, and she regularly dedicates her time to organizations in the surrounding area. By giving back to her community, she strives to create a positive impact and promote a sense of compassion and support for those in need.

Jennifer is a proud graduate of Alabama A&M University, where she honed her skills and achieved academic excellence. As a devoted mother to twins Jaylene and Jordan, she embraces the beautiful chaos of raising two talented and ambitious individuals. During her free time, Jennifer immerses herself in the world of sports as a dedicated "sports mom," providing unwavering support to her children during football and basketball seasons. Beyond her role as a mother, Jennifer finds joy in attending exhilarating concerts and exploring new destinations with her beloved family and friends. Jennifer’s genuine passion and tireless spirit shines through in all aspects of her life, making her an inspiring and cherished presence in both her personal and professional endeavors.

“Jennifer’s passion in the Huntsville/Madison County community, is truly impressive. She is caring and overall, such a lovely and caring soul. Anything she is involved in is truly expected to succeed”, says ACU’s Area Manager Brady Wakefield.

Andy Watwood serves as a Strategic Account Manager at WOW! Business. In his role, he focuses on medium, large and enterprise accounts. He helps these companies with their technology plans and provides solutions that help them be more efficient and profitable.

Andy has over 33 years of Telecom and Data experience working in Huntsville and North Alabama areas. Andy Graduated University of Alabama Huntsville in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with concentration in Finance.

Andy has been married to his wife Dana for over 30 years and has two children, Allison, and Drew. Andy enjoys golf, bowling, and Scuba diving in his spare time.

As a lifelong resident of Madison County, Victoria Willmon graduated from Madison Academy and began her career with Huntsville Utilities in 2007. A proven track record of excellence in various roles at Huntsville Utilities propelled her to her current position as Key Account Coordinator. As a coordinator, Victoria is responsible for offering support to representatives, understanding the needs of her customers, and representing Huntsville Utilities in the community. Victoria holds a Bachelor's degree in Science/Business from Faulkner University, APPA Key Account certification, and Advanced APPA Key Account certification.

Victoria is involved in her treasured community. She and her daughter serve as members of Twickenham Church of Christ. Victoria joined the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador program in 2021, quickly learning the organization's value. Victoria currently serves as a board member for Enable of Madison County and a board member for Community of Hope. Furthermore, she serves as a South Huntsville Main Business Association member and regularly volunteers with various nonprofits around the community through the Huntsville Utilities Volunteer Council. Victoria served as the 2023 Ambassador Chair of the Madison City Chamber of Commerce: grateful for the opportunity and looking forward to continued support as an ambassador. Victoria truly understands the importance of community service and outreach. By involving her daughter in volunteering activities as often as she can, she is positively impacting her community and teaching valuable lessons about empathy and social responsibility.

Eager to make a difference, she embarks on her inaugural year as an Emissary, ready to become a pillar of support for the community.

Todd Zelenka is the driving force behind Interweave Technologies' growth as the Vice-President. With a passion for building meaningful relationships and a track record of success, Todd is the go-to expert when it comes to unlocking untapped potential.

Todd's diverse background spans management, sales, and even the medical field, where he served as a skilled assistant, X-ray, and Lab tech. This unique blend of experiences has shaped his holistic approach to business, allowing him to see challenges from different angles and provide innovative solutions.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Todd is a man of many talents. When he's not strategizing for Interweave, you might find him strumming his guitar or rocking out on the drums. As a true movie buff, Todd's love for cinema dates back to his teenage years in Germany, where he curated an extensive VCR movie library. With hundreds of films at his fingertips, he developed a keen eye for storytelling and a knack for captivating audiences.

Todd's philosophy is simple yet powerful: 'Do unto others.' He firmly believes in exceeding customer expectations by delivering genuine solutions that address their unique needs. For Todd, true success lies in the ability to take care of customers by going above and beyond.