Gina Bodorlo - Executive Assistant to the President & CEO and Human Resource Manager
Dexter Charles - Bookkeeper
Mandy Forrester - Foundation Manager, Golden Bell
Sherese James - Program Manager, YEA!
Jenifer Marquart - Boynton Beach Market Director
Kristina Palacios - Office Manager
Laurie Pierson - Business Development Manager
Marti Soroka - Membership Development Associate
Sarah Vielot - Events Manager
Poised for Progress
For more than seven decades, the Boca Chamber has stood at the intersection of business and community, helping shape a region where ideas take root and industries evolve. Today, as we continue that legacy, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a forward-looking vision centered on one guiding principle: Advancing Commerce.
This issue of Connection Magazine marks an exciting milestone for our organization. We are proud to unveil our new identity as the Boca Regional Chamber—a name that reflects both who we are and where we’re going. As our reach and impact continue to expand beyond city lines, this evolution signals our commitment to serving as a unifying force for businesses across South Palm Beach County and the greater region. I invite you to turn to page 5 to learn more about this transformation and what it means for our members, partners, and community.
Advancing Commerce today requires more than simply supporting progress—it calls for cultivating ecosystems where innovation, talent, and opportunity converge. From startups finding their footing to established companies scaling new heights, our role is to create the conditions where progress happens naturally, powered by meaningful connections and shared ambition.
That spirit is embodied in this issue’s cover story featuring Andrew Duffell, President of the Research Park at Florida Atlantic University. Under his leadership, the Research Park has become a dynamic engine for innovation—where academia and industry intersect to accelerate discovery, support entrepreneurs, and drive economic impact. His work is a powerful example of how collaboration fuels advancement, and I encourage you to read his story on pages 12–13.
“Advancing Commerce today requires more than simply supporting progress—it calls for cultivating ecosystems where innovation, talent, and opportunity converge.”
Across our region, we are seeing momentum build in exciting ways. Businesses are not only growing—they are reimagining what growth looks like. They are embracing new technologies, investing in their people, and forging partnerships that extend beyond traditional boundaries. At the Boca Regional Chamber, we are committed to matching that momentum by delivering programs, advocacy, and opportunities that empower our members to lead in a rapidly changing landscape.
Whether through leadership development initiatives, curated networking experiences, or access to timely insights, we are focused on equipping our business community with the tools to adapt, innovate, and thrive. Because when our businesses succeed, our entire region prospers.
As you move through this issue, I hope you feel the energy, resilience, and ingenuity that define our community. These stories are more than snapshots of success—they are proof points of what’s possible when we invest in one another and move forward with intention.
Thank you for being an integral part of the Boca Regional Chamber as we continue to shape a vibrant and prosperous future for our entire community. Together, we continue to build a thriving business environment where success knows no limits.
Moving Our Region Forward,
Troy M. McLellan, CCE, FCCP President & CEO
President & CEO Troy M. McLellan
WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN IN THE CELEBRATION OF LOCAL BUSINESSES IN SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY
BOCA WEST COUNTRY CLUB MAY 15 2026 11:45 AM - 1:30 PM
Boca Regional Chamber
ROOTED IN LEGACY. RISING AS A REGION.
The Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce is entering a new era, unveiling a refreshed brand identity and new name: the Boca Regional Chamber.
The new logo represents more than a name change, it introduces a fresh, modern look. The four arrows within the design symbolize our continued commitment to the Chamber’s four pillars of C.A.P.E.: Connecting Members, Advancing Commerce, Protecting Business, and Enhancing the Community. Our refreshed identity also carries forward our signature blue and green colors, as well as our familiar globe icon, honoring the brand elements our community knows while introducing a modernized design.
FROM CITY FOCUS TO REGIONAL CONNECTOR
Founded in 1952, the Chamber has grown into the largest in Palm Beach County, representing nearly 1,500 member companies and more than 100,000 employees. What began as a citycentered organization has become a unifying force across municipalities, responding to where talent, investment, and opportunity are heading.
A pivotal moment in this journey came in 2019, when the Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce
ADVANCING COMMERCE, TOGETHER
merged with the Boca Raton Chamber. The move reflected a broader shift toward collaboration in an increasingly interconnected economy.
The merger strengthened economic development and job creation across both communities, fostering deeper partnerships and aligning resources to better support a shared regional economy.
At its core, this transformation is about alignment—between identity and impact, geography and influence, vision and reality.
“As professionals and business leaders, we all have a stake in the success of this region,” McLellan added. “The Boca Regional Chamber brings people together to amplify voices, strengthen relationships, and create an environment where businesses can grow, invest, and succeed.”
The name may be new, but the purpose is enduring. And as the region continues to expand, the Chamber stands ready not only to keep pace, but to help lead the way.
This shift reflects more than progress—it signals Boca Raton’s continued rise as a dynamic economic hub with influence far beyond city limits.
Boynton Beach
A FORWARD-THINKING COMMUNITY
Boynton Beach is rapidly emerging as one of South Florida’s most forward-thinking, businessfriendly communities. With a clear vision for sustainable growth, proactive leadership, and a commitment to economic development, the city is actively advancing commerce—creating an environment where businesses can launch, grow, and gain real momentum.
Strategically positioned between major economic hubs, Boynton Beach offers access to a diverse workforce, regional markets, and a strong transportation network. It’s not just where the city sits, it’s how it uses that position to open doors for opportunity and expansion.
Growth in Boynton Beach is intentional and forward-looking. Through targeted redevelopment initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and thoughtful land-use strategies, the city is shaping a vibrant commercial landscape. Mixeduse developments, revitalized corridors, and modernized community spaces are attracting new investment while supporting existing businesses.
ADVANCING COMMERCE THROUGH PARTNERSHIP & LIFESTYLE
The Chamber advances commerce in Boynton Beach by bringing together businesses, community leaders, and local government to create opportunities for growth and success. Through networking events, educational programs, advocacy efforts, and strategic partnerships, the Chamber helps businesses build meaningful connections, share ideas, and stay informed about issues that impact the local economy. By creating spaces where professionals can collaborate and learn from one another, the Chamber strengthens the business community and helps companies of all sizes thrive.
The strong partnership between the Chamber and the City of Boynton Beach helps create a businessfriendly environment that encourages innovation, supports economic growth, and promotes long-term prosperity. Working together, we ensure that businesses have a voice, access to valuable resources, and the support they need to succeed—helping keep Boynton Beach a thriving community for entrepreneurs, employers, and residents alike.
At the same time, Boynton Beach is fostering a business-friendly climate by streamlining processes, supporting entrepreneurship, and implementing economic initiatives designed to help companies succeed. The focus isn’t just on attracting new businesses—it’s on building a strong foundation for long-term growth. For
businesses looking toward the future, Boynton Beach represents more than opportunity—it represents momentum.
Alvaro Nuñez Alfaro ’17 Founder/CEO Super Luxury Group
TOGETHER, WE’VE DONATED OVER $2 MILLION TO BOCA’S K-12 PUBLIC SCHOOLS!
The Boca Chamber’s Golden Bell Education Foundation is supporting Boca’s public schools through grants that fund educational programs and promote business skills. Scan to learn more
SINCE INCEPTION IN 1991 SINCE INCEPTION IN 1991:: :
900,000+ KIDS have been impacted by the Golden Bell Education Foundation's grants and annual giving
The Innovative Leaders of Tomorrow
The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!), a program of the Golden Bell Education Foundation, is a ground-breaking and exciting program that transforms local middle and high school students into real, confident entrepreneurs. Through the year-long program, students in grades 6-12 generate business ideas, conduct market research, write business plans, pitch to a panel of investors, and win seed money to launch their very own companies.
The program year consists of two significant events: The CEO Roundtable and Elevator Pitch Competition, and the Investor Panel Presentation. Through this comprehensive program, YEA! students not only learn entrepreneurial skills but also gain knowledge to become the great business leaders of tomorrow!
YEA! CEO ROUNDTABLE
From the CEO Roundtable, we are grateful to the CEOs who shared valuable information about their business journey and the importance of mentorship:
• Sheryl Clark, Boston Proper
• Jeb Thomas, Planestocks
• Michael Piccoli, On Target Digital Marketing
The second half of the night consisted of students pitching their businesses within 30-60 seconds to impress the audience and judges. The competition was stiff, but three rose to the top:
1st – Olivia Yuricek, Alexander Dreyfoos School of the Arts
2nd – Brooke Feinstein, North Broward Preparatory School
3rd – Nana Wang, Saint Andrew’s School
“SHARK TANK STYLE” INVESTOR PANEL COMPETITION
The Investor Panel Presentations were the final event of the year, where students presented their innovative business ideas to win seed money from investor judges. Based upon the appeal and merit of the students’ plans and presentations, judges determined the amount of funds to allocate to each business. The investors also selected businesses to advance to the Young Entrepreneurs Academy Saunders Scholars Competition, where they will compete with students across the United States for college scholarships!
The top two businesses chosen to represent Boca are:
• Nana Wang – Nomad water filtration system
• Sloane Berman & Taylor Zimmerman
– Aroma Rest interchangeable aromatherapy blanket
Ari Bernshteyn – Frost Band
Brooke Feinstein - Scentimals
Diego Lombana, Andy Tang, Paolo Civera –Aero Comfort
Hudson Newcomer – Can Do Cleaning
Inaya Soni – Clipt Earrings
Nana Wang - Nomad
Olivia Yuricek – Touch Tempo
Reid Benson – Car Code
Samantha Kohl - AiO
Sloane Berman, Taylor Zimmerman –
Aroma Rest
Ella DiNapoli – Play It Forward
Phoebe Wei – Aquarizon
We are extremely proud of our entire YEA! Class of 2026 for all the hard work they accomplished to be the future CEOs and business leaders of tomorrow!
To learn more about YEA!, please visit yeausa.org or contact Sherese James at sjamesgrow@bocachamber.com.
New Member Orientation
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
The Boca Chamber members listed below referred one of their contacts to join, and they did!
Amy Soble Greenspoon Marder LLP
referred: Signature International Premiere Properties, LLC
CP Group
referred: All Star Recruiting
Joyce Hunter FL Printing Group
referred: Jeannette Cooper/Primerica & 24/7 Merchant Mart
Melissa Webster BMS Moving & Storage referred: The Advance Group
Ashley Bacon Lady Ashley Party Planning referred: Different & Quick Services
Sheila Jones 5/3 Bank referred: Mayra Alfonso Phychiatry, LLC
Matt Blank Fast Signs Coral Springs referred: Burn Boot Camp
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Where Innovation Meets Impact
DRIVING ECONOMIC GROWTH IN BOCA RATON
The Research Park at Florida Atlantic University plays a vital role in driving innovation and economic growth in our region. We had the opportunity to hear from Andrew Duffell, President of the Research Park at Florida Atlantic, about how his leadership is advancing commerce by supporting emerging companies, fostering partnerships, and creating an environment where ideas can grow into impactful businesses.
Q. How did you come to serve as President of the Research Park at Florida Atlantic University, and how have your experiences shaped your perspective on advancing commerce and economic development in our region?
My path here was really shaped by a lifelong interest in what makes places thrive economically. I grew up around Europe, studied European affairs in Scotland, and began my career helping attract US companies to invest in the North of England. That experience taught me the fundamentals - how capital moves, how companies make location decisions, what governments and institutions can do to tip the balance. When I returned to Florida in 2005 to join the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County, where I spent five years recruiting and retaining companies, including securing a landmark $188 million incentive package and commitment from the Max Planck Society to establish a presence in Palm Beach County, that work deepened my conviction that South Florida has extraordinary, untapped potential. When the opportunity came to lead the Research Park in 2011, it felt like a natural evolution, a chance to build something more permanent. Not just attracting companies but creating an environment where they can grow roots and scale into something transformational. The two unicorns we've produced, ModMed and Material Bank, both started at the Research Park. That's the model I believe in.
Q. How does the Research Park help transform research and innovation into real economic opportunities, job creation, and business growth for Boca Raton and South Palm Beach County?
The Research Park sits at the intersection of academic research and commercial application, where economic value is created. We're a 70-acre campus that houses technology- and research-based companies working in direct partnership with Florida Atlantic University. That proximity to Florida Atlantic's research enterprise means our companies can access cutting-edge academic work, collaborate with faculty, and tap into the pipeline of talent from its colleges of engineering, science, and medicine. The numbers tell part of the story: we generate a $535 million annual economic impact, support nearly a thousand jobs, and contribute more than $130 million in personal income to the regional workforce. I'm most proud of the quality of that impact. These are high-skill, highwage jobs in technology sectors. When a company like ModMed or Aerospace Technologies Group grows from a small team in a corner of one of our buildings to a market-leading enterprise employing thousands of people right here in South Florida, that's the model working as it should.
WHAT ONE WORD DEFINES BOCA'S ECONOMIC FUTURE?
Q. In what ways does the Research Park help build a strong workforce pipeline by connecting students, researchers, and local businesses to meaningful career opportunities?
One of our most important functions is serving as a bridge between the academic world and the business community. Our physical proximity to Florida Atlantic is a genuine competitive advantage - our companies can and do hire FAU students and graduates, take on interns, and collaborate on research projects with faculty. That creates a feedback loop that benefits everyone: FAU, Palm Beach State College, and Lynn University students gain real-world experience with high-growth technology companies right on campus, our companies gain access to talent already familiar with their industry, and the region retains more of the skilled graduates it invests in developing. We also see this play out through Global Ventures, our international second-stage incubator, where companies arriving from around the world build their South Florida workforce from day one. A Brazilian company, a German company, an Israeli company - they all end up hiring locally, building teams, and becoming part of the community. That's workforce development happening organically, driven by the quality of the ecosystem we've built.
Q. Which industries, technologies, or business sectors do you believe will drive the next wave of economic growth in our region?
Med-tech is at the top of my list, and I mean that broadly. Medical devices, health IT, and AI applied to research and patient care are converging in ways that will be enormously impactful, and South Florida is genuinely well-positioned to be a leader in this space. We already have companies in our ecosystem working at that intersection, including Biobeat, which just closed a $50 million Series B to advance a cuffless blood pressure monitoring device, and BioStem Technologies, which recently acquired land at the Research Park to build its future headquarters. The combination of FAU's research enterprise, our growing health sciences presence, and the region's existing concentration of healthcare infrastructure makes this a natural cluster for us to develop further.
Beyond med-tech, AI is broadly applied to enterprise software and climate technology, and we have Blue Frontier right here working to revolutionize air conditioning, along with the continued growth of the international entrepreneurial community we're building through Global Ventures. The diversity of that innovation is itself a strength.
Q. What makes Boca Raton a compelling destination for companies looking to expand, relocate, or invest in long-term growth?
Boca Raton sits at the center of South Florida in a genuinely strategic way. You have three major international airports within easy reach, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami, and Brightline rail connectivity that makes the entire corridor from Miami to Orlando increasingly accessible. For companies that operate globally, that connectivity matters enormously. But beyond logistics, what distinguishes Boca is the quality of its talent market. With K-12 schools graded A and major higher education institutions, we have a highly educated population, a sophisticated financial sector with deep capital networks, and a long history of technological innovation that goes back decades. This isn't a market that's just discovering tech; it has been building it quietly for a long time, and of course, Florida's tax environment, no state income tax, means our companies can attract and retain talent more competitively. When you put all of that together - location, connectivity, talent, capital, quality of lifeBoca makes a very compelling case. My job is partly just to make sure the world knows it.
Q. How does collaboration with The Boca Chamber help strengthen the Research Park's ability to advance innovation, business partnerships, and economic prosperity across the community?
The Chamber relationship is one I value deeply, and it works because we're genuinely complementary. The Chamber's membership represents the full breadth of the region's business community, professional services, retail, hospitality, and finance. In contrast, our community at the Research Park and Global Ventures is concentrated on high-growth technology and research-based enterprises. When we bring those two worlds together, something valuable happens. Our companies connect with the local vendors, suppliers, and service providers they need to operate effectively. And the Chamber's members get access to some of the most dynamic, fast-growing companies in the region as potential clients and partners. What we're really building is deep local roots for our enterprises. When a technology company from Israel, Brazil, or Germany arrives through Global Ventures and starts doing business with Boca companies for their professional and operational needs, they become genuinely invested in this community. They hire locally, they spend locally, and they develop a loyalty to the region that makes them more likely to stay and grow here. That makes the regional economy more diverse and resilient, and benefits everyone.
Leadership Boca
WHERE CONNECTION BECOMES LEADERSHIP
By Dan Nathanson, Chairman, Leadership Boca 2026
It’s hard to believe we’re already underway with Leadership Boca 2026, and I can honestly say I’m grateful to be on this journey alongside an incredible class, my co-chair Paola Morales, and the outstanding Boca Chamber team.
Our Orientation set the tone right away. The room was filled with energy, laughter, and a shared willingness to jump in. Connections formed quickly, and there was an immediate sense that this group was ready to engage, learn, and grow together. It was a strong reminder that Leadership Boca is, at its core, about building meaningful relationships and shared experiences.
Then came SIMSOC, one of the most impactful experiences of the program. For those who have participated, you already understand. For those who have not, I will simply say this: our class “learned their colors” and walked away with perspectives that will stay with them long after graduation. It is a powerful reminder that leadership without empathy is just a title.
Since then, Environmental Day, Agriculture Day, and Human Services Day have offered a deeper look into what makes Boca Raton function and thrive. From critical systems to the people and organizations working tirelessly behind the scenes, each experience has reinforced the strength and complexity of our community. What has stood out most is how this class continues to show up with curiosity, humility, and genuine respect for the individuals who so generously share their time and insight.
A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated day planners and speakers who open doors and provide access in such meaningful ways. And to Troy McLellan and the Boca Chamber team, thank you for your commitment to creating an exceptional experience and for continuously listening, adapting, and elevating the program in real time.
We are still early in this journey, but already it feels like something special is taking shape. New relationships are forming, perspectives are shifting, and the foundation for stronger, more thoughtful leadership is being built. And in many ways, that is what Leadership Boca is all about.
LEADERSHIP BOCA CLASS OF 2026
Abigail Fleming - Boca Grove
Ashley Craig - The Diaper Bank, Covering South Florida
Brenna Hovatter - Ruth & Norman Rales JFS
Chelsea Jarrell - Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center
Christina Seamster - Junior League Boca Raton
Cindee Conner - Graze Craze Boca Raton
Daniel Schechter - HabCenter
Edward Jimenez - Jimenez Legal
Emilie Schechtman - The Rudman Law Group
Erin Donnelly - NCCI Holdings
Harika Rao - Lynn University
James Switzer - Boca Grove
Jeniffer Gonzalez - La Boulangerie
Jennifer Pugh - George Snow Scholarship Fund
Laura Aswani - NCCI Holdings
Laurie Pierson - Boca Regional Chamber
Leon Fooksman - TAPinto Boca Raton
Lisa Matter - TD Bank
Luli Marx - Palm Beach State College
Madison Andrews - FAU
Maria Siegel - The Siegel Law Group
Mychal Milian - Waterstone Resort & Marina
Rebecca Foster - Northwestern Mutual: Striano Financial Group
Richard McDuffe - Boca Helping Hands
Richard Gurzo - Boca Raton Airport Authority
Robin Mautino - Boca Raton Regional Hospital
Shea Ciarletta - YMCA South Palm Beach
Shielle Traverso - Boca Raton Regional Hospital
Stefanie Marder - Alzheimer's Association
Susan Tonkowich - Waterstone Resort & Marina
Tiffany Hughes - JM Family Enterprises
Tim Ferguson - Windward Risk Managers
Tumesh Sankar - Baptist Health South Florida
For additional information about the program or details on applying, contact Chasity Navarro at cnavarro@bocachamber.com or call (561) 3954433. Applications for Leadership Boca 2027 open in July 2026.
Ribbon Cuttings
Ribbon Cuttings
Over the past few months, we’ve had the privilege of celebrating a wave of grand openings and milestone anniversaries alongside our ever-growing Chamber community. Each ribbon cut feels like a spark—another business stepping forward, another story beginning, another sign that our collective momentum is truly advancing commerce across South Florida.
We’re deeply grateful to every member, partner, and supporter who shows up, cheers loudly, and invests in one another’s success. These moments aren’t just celebrations—they’re proof that when a community rallies together, growth becomes something we build side by side. From Boca to Boynton and beyond, your energy is what turns opportunity into impact.
Invest In FLORIDA ATLANTIC
Join
us
in preparing tomorrow’s workforce
Blending the energy of South Florida with academic excellence, Florida Atlantic prepares the next generation of leaders and skilled professionals in high-demand fields — from business and engineering to health care and technology.
When you invest in Florida Atlantic, you strengthen your talent pipeline, grow your business, and help secure the long-term vitality of our region and state.
Florida Atlantic. Where tomorrow begins.
CHAMBER ANNIVERSARIES
47 Years
• Beacon Group, Inc. Insurance
43 Years
• Bethesda Hospital East
40 Years
• American Equipment Company
• AT&T
• AT&T Yellow Pages
• Babione - Kraeer Funeral Home
• Boca Grove Golf & Tennis Club
• Boca Raton Police Department
• Carman Law Firm, P.A.
• NCCI
• Ro Rabozzi/State Farm Insurance Agency
39 Years
• Office Depot, Inc.
• Toshiba Business Solutions Florida
• Town Center at Boca Raton/Simon Property Group
• West Boca Medical Center
• YMCA of South Palm Beach County
38 Years
• Courtyard by Marriott Boynton Beach
• Delray Medical Center
• George Snow Scholarship Fund, Inc.
• Hilton Suites Boca Raton
• Penn-Florida Companies
• Sena Group
36 Years
• Benvenuto Restaurant
35 Years
• Boca Raton Mausoleum, Inc.
• Fuller Center
34 Years
• Delray Sands Resort
• Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa
• Wyndham Hotel - Boca Raton
29 Years
• Loggers' Run Middle School
• Oasis Outsourcing - Paychex
28 Years
• SLK Realty, Inc.
26 Years
• Redgrave & Rosenthal LLP
23 Years
• Bazua Enterprises LLC, dba Global Alliance Envirogreen Building Solutions
• CareerSource Palm Beach County
• The Atlantic Suites on the Ave
22 Years
• CBIZ Benefits & Insurance Services
21 Years
• Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club
20 Years
• Amerant Bank, N.A.
19 Years
• Boston's on the Beach & 50 Ocean
• Heritage Investment Group
• James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational & Pro Links Sports
