Clarksville Area Chamber Celebrates Community Leaders and Announces New Board
Following its annual gala, the Chamber begins a new year of leadership with July events focused on civic engagement, networking and local business support
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – June 30, 2026 – Following the success of its annual gala, the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce is celebrating this year’s award recipients and welcoming new leadership to guide a busy year of events, business support and community engagement.
The Chamber’s 2026–2027 Executive Committee and Board of Directors will be led by Chairman Tom Creech of McReynolds, Nave & Larson Funeral Home, along with 1st Vice-Chair Rebecca Cooke of Beachaven Vineyards & Winery. Also on the board is 2nd Vice-Chair Brian Taylor of CDE Lightband, Immediate Past Chairman Dr. Mike Licari of Austin Peay State University and vice chairs representing finance, membership services, military affairs, public and community affairs and business development. The leadership team represents a broad cross-section of Clarksville’s business and civic community and will help guide Chamber priorities in the year ahead.
“The strength of our Chamber comes from the people who lead and serve,” said Melinda Shepard, executive director of the Chamber. “This year’s leadership team reflects a shared commitment to supporting business success and enhancing quality of life across the region.”
Community leaders recognized
The Chamber also honored several local business leaders whose service, entrepreneurship and commitment continue to strengthen Clarksville-Montgomery County:
- Jim Durrett - Lifetime Achievement Award recipient
- Sherry Nicholson - Ted A. Crozier Sr. Community Commitment Award
- Erin Yow - Ambassador of the Year
- Casey Jenkins - Valerie Hunter-Kelly Woman in Business Award
- Justin Gordon - Clarksville Young Professional of the Year
- Brian Sticklen - Boots to Suits Award
July events highlight civic engagement and networking
With its new leadership in place, the Chamber is turning quickly to July programming designed to help residents and business leaders connect, learn and engage with issues affecting the local economy:
- Get to Know Your Chamber — July 7 at 8:30 a.m., Chamber office
- Meet the Candidates — July 15 at 8 a.m., 416 College St.
- Business After Hours & Expo — July 16 from 4:30–6:30 p.m. at Clarksville Regional Airport
- Women In Business -Be Bold, Be Beautiful, Be Balanced featuring Angela S. Martin — July 29 at 11:30 a.m.
- Additional committee meetings, networking events and Clarksville Young Professionals programming are scheduled throughout the month.
Chamber welcomes new members
The Chamber also welcomed new member businesses across logistics, restoration, electrical services, event planning, wellness and other industries, reflecting continued investment and entrepreneurship in the Clarksville region.
Together, the leadership announcements, community honors, new members and July programming reflect the Chamber’s ongoing work to strengthen the local economy, connect businesses and encourage civic participation.
“The Chamber’s role is to champion both economic opportunity and community well-being,” said Chairman Tom Creech. “Through events, partnerships and recognition programs, we aim to support Clarksville’s continued growth and success.”
About the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce is to represent the interests of the business community by advancing community development, promoting a strong business environment and enhancing the overall quality of life in the region. More information about Chamber events, sponsorships and membership is available at clarksvillechamber.com or by contacting the Chamber office at (931) 647‑2331.
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