January 17, 2024, KATY, Texas -The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the addition of five distinguished new members to its Board of Directors. These individuals were selected for their exceptional leadership qualities, dedication to the community, and commitment to fostering business growth in the Katy area.
New Board Members:
- Amanda Friedman, Main Event Katy: Amanda brings a set of fresh eyes and ideas as the Sales Event Manager for one of Katy’s top entertainment and event venues. She is not new to building relationships and working hard towards her goals. She believes the Chamber is in business for businesses. Her experience working in the hospitality industry not only brings financial education and knowledge, but it helps understand the ROI of successful execution of events, member presence and the ability to personally getting to know each member.
- Dr. Karen Jaggers, The Jaggers Group: Dr. Jaggers is known in the Houston area as a family and disability advocate and a behavior and educational consultant through her work as a Counselor through her company, The Jaggers Group. Dr. Jaggers has also previously served on the Katy Area Chamber’s board from 2016-2021. She brings a wide variety of other board service as she has been a past board member or chair for 7 other non-profits serving the greater Houston community.
- Charles Stein, AT&T: Charles has been with AT&T since July 2016 serving in roles such as Supply Chain Logistics Manager, Business Intelligence Manger, Public Sector Marketing Manage, and currently works as the Corporate External Affairs Director. Charles is eager to make a difference by leveraging his professional networks to facilitate business and community development that yields accessible opportunities throughout the Katy Area. Charles is also a graduate of Leadership Katy program for the Class of 2023.
- Nick Velasquez, Southern Glazers Wine and Spirits: Nick is the Vice President of Southern Glazers Wine and Spirits where he actively employees hundreds in our community. As one of the largest employers in the City of Katy, Nick’s perspective will be instrumental as he represents many that live and work in the Katy community. Nick has served on multiple boards, in many capacities, across several states throughout his career. He is also currently serving on the Katy ISD Education Foundation Board and was also a graduate of the Leadership Katy program for the Class of 2023.
- Zach Weyand, Houston Methodist West Hospital: Zach brings over 7 years of Leadership experience and more than 13 years of Healthcare experience to the Chamber Board. He has also helped his father grow a small business over the last 20 years. He will bring new insights and strategic growth opportunities through various perspectives on supporting our small businesses. Zach is currently participating in the Leadership Katy program for the Class of 2024.
“The new board members bring a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives that are vital for the continued growth and success of our business community,” said Jason Hodge, Chairman, of the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce. “We are excited to work together to launch new initiatives, strengthen our programs, and deepen our engagement with the Katy area.”
The board members will officially take their roles on January 17, 2024 and will participate in various chamber activities, including the Leadership Katy program, Signature Events, Advocacy efforts and align the Chamber for accreditation through the US Chamber of Commerce.
“We are confident that their contributions will be invaluable in helping us achieve our goals for this year and beyond,” added Nicole LeBoeuf, Vice-Chair.
The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting and advocating for local businesses in the community. With these new additions to our board, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a vibrant and thriving business community.
For more information about the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce and its activities, please visit www.katychamber.com. Headshot Photo Credit: Kelly Richman, Lifetime of Clicks Photography.
