How Longview is Redefining What It Means to Champion Business
Kelly Hall
President/CEO
903.237.4004
khall@longviewtx.com
David Jochum
Chief Operating Officer
903.237.4023
djochum@longviewtx.com
Shawna Stewart Investor Support
903.237.4000
sstewart@longviewtx.com
Catherine Camp
Membership & Retention Coordinator
903.237.4009
ccamp@longviewtx.com
Morgan Wilcox
Business Development & Marketing Manager
903.237.4013
mwilcox@longviewtx.com
2025-26 CHAMBER EVENTS
2025 Officers
Lori Ivey Chair
State Farm Insurance (Lori Ivey)
Andy Hill Chair-Elect
Mobberly Baptist Church
Brian Daugbjerg Chair of Finance
Longview Scrap & Metal Company
Jessica LaRue Past-Chairman
Harbour Smith Harris & Merritt PC
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2026 11:30 am – 1:00 pm H Longview Chamber
This event gives current and new members the opportunity to learn more about the Chamber and its role in the region. This is a great way to make introductions and to build relationships, as well as learn about how to make the most of your membership and get engaged. There will be a light meal, introduction of the Chamber's strategic plan, a highlight of the website, upcoming events, and member benefits overview.
Vice Chairs
Mark Robinson Vice Chairman
AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company
Jennifer Ware Vice Chairman VeraBank
Directors
Casey Beddingfield RLM General Contractors
Michael Clements Jr. PDQ America, LLC
Andrew Coggins
Eastman Chemical Company, Texas Operations
Adrienne Deason
Henry & Peters, P.C. Don Deem
Longview Cable Television Company Inc Wehco Video Inc
Nishil Patel Heritage Wine & Spirits
Wesley Knight
Longview Regional Medical Center
Dana Rutland Right at Home
Clay Thompson
Texas Bank & Trust
Appointed Directors
Steve Mason LeTourneau University
Shannon Moore
Longview City Council
Bill Stoudt County of Gregg
Julia Tubb CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System
REMEMBER TO LOOK FOR THE “BUG”
CHAMBERS FOR THE FUTURE
How Longview is Redefining What It Means to Champion Business
In January 2025, we issued a bold challenge to ourselves: What if we could reimagine what it truly means to be for our business community?
At our Annual Meeting and Banquet, we brought in Jeff Henderson— author of Know What You’re FOR—to help us explore that question. Jeff’s message was simple yet profound: if you want to grow your influence and impact, you need to be crystal clear about who you're for and what you want to be known for.
His talk struck a chord. That night, guests participated in a real-time Mentimeter survey to reflect on those very questions. The energy in the room was electric—hopeful, honest, and future-focused.
But we didn’t stop there.
A PROCESS ROOTED IN VISION AND STRATEGY
Over the next several months, we embarked on a multi-step strategic planning process grounded in ACCE’s Horizon Report. This national research helped us examine the trends shaping chamber relevance across the country—and how we must evolve to lead through them.
• In April, we convened our full board for an initial planning session.
• In May, we took a deeper dive into our strategy matrix and what it revealed with our Executive Board.
• By June, we hosted our Chambers for the Future retreat, facilitated by chamber expert Dave Kilby.
We aren’t just a support system. We’re a catalyst.
WHAT WE STAND FOR
Our board expressed a desire to be known as relentless advocates, connectors, and trusted problem-solvers. We help local businesses thrive and ensure the policies, programs, and partnerships exist to support them.
Our threefold commitment:
• Advocacy with Impact – from InterCity Trip-inspired city initiatives to workforce policy reform.
• Commerce and Connection – connecting local and regional businesses for mutual success.
• Visionary Leadership – leading boldly and championing what’s next for our region.
WHO WE’RE FOR
We are for:
• Current and future businesses
• Local entrepreneurs and regional employers
• Our community—because a healthy business climate leads to a thriving hometown
• Free enterprise—because business done well strengthens democracy
MEASURING OUR VALUE
As one board member put it: “No community will ever rise above the Chamber of Commerce that causes it to be.”
Through this process, our board aligned around a clear, courageous path forward.
WHO WE ARE
We are the voice of business and the convener of leaders. Bold and future-focused, we exist to build and grow a healthy business community— not just for today’s enterprises, but for future generations of East Texas leaders and entrepreneurs.
KELLY
HALL CCE, IOM, MSL President/CEO
We know we’re making a difference when:
• Businesses turn to us to solve problems
• City leaders call on us to advocate
• Entrepreneurs connect because of us
• Our region grows because we led the way
LOOKING AHEAD
Chambers for the Future is not a theme—it’s a mindset. It’s how we intend to lead: with clarity, courage, and a deep commitment to the business community that fuels East Texas.
We’re not just planning for the future. We’re building it — together.
LONGVIEW’S MOMENTUM: Mayor Ishihara to Deliver 2025 State of the City Address
As Longview continues to grow and evolve, city leaders and business professionals will gather to take stock of progress and chart a course for the future at the Longview Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 State of the City Luncheon. The event will be held Wednesday, November 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Infinity Event Center.
A CITY ON THE MOVE
Each year, the State of the City brings together the business community, local officials, and civic leaders to reflect on Longview’s achievements and upcoming opportunities. This year, Mayor Kristen Ishihara will take the stage to share key updates on city priorities — including infrastructure investments, economic development initiatives, and quality-of-life projects shaping the next chapter of Longview’s story.
“Longview has incredible momentum,” says Chamber COO Dave Jochum. “This luncheon celebrates how our business community and city leadership work hand-in-hand to keep that momentum going — through innovation, collaboration, and shared purpose.”
CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP AND COLLABORATION
The luncheon is one of the Chamber’s signature annual events, designed to strengthen the bridge between the public and private sectors. Attendees can
expect a dynamic presentation from Mayor Ishihara that highlights tangible results from the past year while outlining bold goals for 2026 and beyond.
It’s also an opportunity for business and community leaders to connect, exchange ideas, and reaffirm their commitment to building a vibrant, forward-thinking Longview.
PRESENTED BY COMMUNITY PARTNERS
This year’s luncheon is made possible through the support of generous sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Johnson & Pace, Inc., and Gold Sponsors AAON Coil Products Inc., Conterra Networks, Copeland Insurance Group, Eastman Credit Union, Peltier Ford, STEMCO, Texas Bank and Trust, and VeraBank. Silver Sponsors include Atmos Energy, Barksdale Federal Credit Union, Louis Morgan Drug #4, and SERVPRO of Longview.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Seats are limited for this highly anticipated event. Registration and sponsorship details are available at LongviewChamber.com.
Mayor Kristen Ishihara
FUTURE FOCUSED LEADERSHIP BOLD
LEADERSHIP BOLD
FOCUSED Insights for Business & Community Prosperity
WHY DEVELOPING LEADERS UNDER 40 IS A BUSINESS IMPERATIVE
For more than a century, chambers of commerce have been in the business of building leaders. What began as networks of business owners advocating for commerce have evolved into something far greater: a catalyst for shaping strong, resilient communities.
Today, that mission requires a sharp focus on the next generation of leaders, those under 40 who will carry the mantle of progress into the future.
A HISTORICAL THROUGHLINE
In the past, many chamber programs were designed for executives at the height of their careers. Leadership development often began once a professional had “arrived” at the senior level. But times have changed. The speed of business, the disruption of technology, and the shifting values of younger generations have accelerated the need to invest earlier.
Chambers across the country recognized this decades ago, and programs like Leadership Longview and 40 Under 40 were born out of that urgency. These initiatives didn’t just celebrate rising stars—they intentionally built a bridge between established leaders and emerging talent.
WHY IT MATTERS NOW
Business today is more complex, fast paced, and global than ever before. Companies cannot afford to wait until someone is 50 to begin equipping them with the tools to lead. The workforce pipeline depends on:
• RETENTION OF TOP TALENT. Younger employees are more likely to stay when they feel invested in.
• SUCCESSION PLANNING. Leadership churn is accelerating, and communities that don’t prepare their replacements risk losing momentum.
• FRESH PERSPECTIVES. Younger leaders bring agility, innovation, and a different lens on challenges like housing, childcare, and workforce readiness.
For East Texas, where we are balancing both growth and challenges, the investment in leaders under 40 is not optional, it is essential.
VOICES OF LONGVIEW’S FUTURE LEADERS
KELLY RANKIN, TEXAS BANK & TRUST
“Personally, it gave me the chance to build amazing connections within the community and get more involved for both myself and my family. Professionally, it opened my eyes to new ways of approaching challenges, whether problemsolving or working with different individuals. The program also placed mentors and resources in my path that continue to help me grow both personally and professionally.”
Her leadership lesson? “Always stay true to yourself and surround yourself with mentors who will challenge you. Take the time to connect with people from all walks of life—you never know which conversations will open doors or help you grow.”
THE CHAMBER’S ROLE
The Longview Chamber’s 40 Under 40 Executive Series and Leadership Longview are more than recognition programs. They are intentional pipelines that:
• Equip participants with practical leadership tools.
• Connect rising leaders with mentors and peers.
• Inspire participants to take ownership of Longview’s future.
We believe leadership development is not simply about preparing people for promotions—it’s about preparing people for purpose. Strong leaders build strong businesses, and strong businesses build strong communities.
LOOKING AHEAD
Developing leaders under 40 is one of the smartest investments a business can make. It ensures continuity, strengthens company culture, and builds the capacity our community needs to thrive.
BY THE NUMBERS
70% of millennials say professional development influences retention. 75% of the workforce will be millennials & Gen Z by 2030 55% of chambers have considered a merger or partnership
Source: Gallup, Deloitte, ACCE Horizon Report
LUCIO AGUILAR, STEMCO
“Participating in the 40 Under 40 Executive Series gave me new skills and connections that I can carry into my career. It also showed me the passion leaders have for seeing a better and thriving Longview, and that inspired me to get plugged in myself.”
His leadership lesson? “Empowering people. One person cannot do something big by themselves. Building a team, empowering them to use their skills and strengths, that’s how you build something strong.”
The question isn’t whether we should develop leaders under 40. The question is whether we can afford not to.
HOW BUSINESS CAN INVEST
• Register young leaders for 40 Under 40.
• Invest in employees by sending them through Leadership Longview.
• Provide mentors, site visits, or job-shadowing opportunities.
• Share your leadership journey with the next generation
LONGVIE W C HAMBER
A N N I V E R S A R Y
Birthday Celebration
ANNUAL MEETING/BANQUET
TUESDAY JANUARY 27, 2026
Reception 4:45 – 5:50 pm | Dinner served at 6:15 pm – 8:00 pm
Maude Cobb Convention Center
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, the Longview Chamber of Commerce is marking a milestone of its own — 110 years of service, leadership, and community impact. Since 1916, the Chamber has been at the heart of Longview’s growth, guiding local businesses through challenge and change with vision and determination.
In 2026, that legacy takes center stage at the Annual Meeting and Banquet on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Maude Cobb Convention Center. This signature event will honor more than a century of business excellence while launching a bold new chapter under the theme “Bold Leadership. Future Focused.”
A NIGHT TO INSPIRE
This year’s keynote address, “Golden Age of Prosperity,” will be delivered by Travis Fisher, Director of Energy and Environmental Policy Studies at the Cato Institute. Fisher, a nationally respected expert in energy and economic policy, will explore how innovation and free enterprise can fuel a prosperous future for America — and how communities like Longview can lead the way.
With nearly two decades of experience spanning the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, U.S. Department of Energy, Heritage Foundation, and private sector organizations, Fisher brings both practical insight and visionary perspective to the stage. His work emphasizes how market-driven solutions and strong leadership can strengthen economic opportunity for generations to come.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: TRAVIS FISHER
A native of North Carolina, Fisher holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in economics from North Carolina State University. He now lives in Maryland with his wife, three children, and two dogs — and continues to serve as a leading voice in national discussions about energy, growth, and the American economy.
BOLD LEADERSHIP. FUTURE FOCUSED.
As the Chamber looks ahead to its 110th year, the new theme — “Bold Leadership. Future Focused.” — captures the spirit that has always defined Longview’s business community. It’s a reminder that leadership is not just about looking back on achievements, but about charting the path forward.
From strengthening education and workforce development to advocating for a thriving business climate, the Chamber remains dedicated to building a Longview where innovation and collaboration continue to drive prosperity.
CELEBRATING THE PAST. BUILDING THE FUTURE.
The Annual Meeting and Banquet isn’t just a celebration — it’s an invitation. It’s a call for business and community leaders to unite, reflect on how far we’ve come, and commit to the work ahead. Together, we’ll honor the visionaries who shaped Longview’s past and embrace the bold ideas that will define its next century.
Join us as we celebrate 110 years of leadership, progress, and purpose — and launch a future focused on growth, opportunity, and a stronger Longview for all.
Protecting What Sustains Us:
Why Caddo Lake Matters to East Texas’ Future
East Texas is blessed with natural abundance — pine forests, fertile land, and freshwater resources that have shaped our economy and way of life for generations. Among these treasures, Caddo Lake stands apart. Its moss-draped cypress trees, winding waterways, and thriving ecosystems tell a story of beauty, balance, and resilience. But beneath that still surface, challenges are rising that demand our collective attention and leadership.
The Question That Sparked a Movement
Following a recent Texas Tribune event in Longview, a community member asked a simple question:
“Can someone buy Caddo Lake?”
The answer is no. Texas law is clear that state waters are held in public trust and cannot be privately owned or sold. Yet the question revealed a deeper concern: how do we ensure East Texas water stays in East Texas?
Caddo Lake is sustained by flows from Lake O’ the Pines, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. These waters feed a globally significant ecosystem, support tourism and recreation, and underpin local economies across Harrison and Marion Counties. However, proposals for inter-basin transfers, moving water from East Texas to rapidly growing North Texas cities, threaten to reduce those flows, putting both the lake’s ecology and our regional prosperity at risk.
Stewardship is Leadership
Water Is Economic Development
Protecting water isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s a business issue. Stable, clean, and accessible water supplies are critical for industry, agriculture, healthcare, and quality of life. Our chamber community understands that economic vitality depends on resource stewardship. If we allow water to be exported faster than it can be replenished, we jeopardize growth for the next generation of East Texans.
A Call to Collaborative Leadership
The Longview Chamber has been engaged in water discussions for years — hosting expert panels, meeting with policymakers in Austin, and partnering with stakeholders to amplify the East Texas voice. Now, it’s time to move from discussion to structured action.
We’re calling for the formation of an East Texas Water Task Force. A coalition of business, civic, environmental, and policy leaders — to ensure that decisions about our water future are made with East Texas at the table, not on the menu.
This task force will:
1. Clarify governance – Identify who controls what, from state to federal oversight.
2. Monitor inter-basin transfer proposals – Stay ahead of developments affecting Lake O’ the Pines and Caddo Lake.
3. Create a 90-day action plan – Prioritize policy, education, and advocacy steps.
4. Develop rapid-response tools – Ensure East Texas voices are heard when proposals emerge.
5. Equip leaders with talking points – So our region speaks with one clear, informed voice.
Caddo Lake is more than a scenic destination; it’s a symbol of the health, economy, advocacy, redevelopment, and talent that define the Chamber’s H.E.A.R.T. framework. Protecting it aligns with every pillar of our mission — because safeguarding natural resources is foundational to long-term prosperity.
As stewards of East Texas’ future, we have both the responsibility and the opportunity to act. Together, we can ensure that the waters sustaining our communities today will continue to nourish generations to come.
YOUR VOTE. YOUR BUSINESS. YOUR FUTURE.
Every few years, Texans get the chance to do something powerful. Together we decide what kind of state we want to build together. This November, we’ll vote on 17 constitutional amendments that shape how we fund education, water, infrastructure, and business growth.
These aren’t just policy questions. They’re people questions. They touch every worker, business owner, teacher, and parent in East Texas. They determine how we grow our local economy, prepare our workforce, and protect the quality of life that makes this region home.
The Power of People Working Together
East Texans are known for showing up at ballgames, at church, and when our neighbors need help. Voting is another way we show up. It’s how we make sure our community’s voice is heard where decisions are made.
The Longview Chamber believes good regulation should support business and provide the essential safeguards that keep our communities strong. When we collaborate, compete, and work together, we make East Texas a better place to live and work.
This isn’t about partisanship it’s about partnership. It’s about accountability, responsiveness, and the belief that local voices matter.
Common Goals, Local Impact
Several propositions on this ballot directly impact business and families in East Texas:
• PROP 1 invests in training and skilled trades, helping young people build careers close to home.
• PROP 4 supports long-term water projects that protect jobs and attract new industries.
• PROPS 2, 6, 8, AND 9 keep Texas competitive by protecting the state’s tax climate and encouraging reinvestment in local business.
These are big-picture issues, but the results are felt right here by people who open their doors every morning, hire local talent, and believe in this community’s future.
Why It Matters Now
The November ballot is long. Some voters may experience fatigue and skip the propositions altogether. But these amendments deserve attention, they influence how East Texas grows and how we compete statewide.
You have power.Your vote is your opportunity to shape the direction of this region.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE BALLOT DETAILS
Texas Secretary of State Current Election Information
Take Action. Stay Informed.
• ELECTION DAY: November 4, 2025
• EARLY VOTING: October 20–31
Here’s how you can help:
• Share this information with your employees and neighbors.
• Encourage early voting and informed participation.
• Talk about why these issues matter to East Texas families and employers.
Together, we can ensure decisions made in Austin reflect the reality of life and business in East Texas.
A Final Word
Chambers of commerce are at their best when we act as unifiers. When we help people find common ground and work toward shared goals. This election is a chance to do just that.
When we show up, we remind everyone — from local officials to state leaders — that East Texans are engaged, informed, and determined to shape our future together.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about policy — it’s about people.
WORKFORCE of the STATE
State of the Workforce Luncheon Showcases Education-Industry Partnerships in Action
The Longview Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 State of the Workforce Luncheon, presented by AAON Coil, brought together business, education, and community leaders on September 24 at the Infinity Event Center to spotlight the critical partnerships shaping East Texas’s future workforce.
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY COLLABORATION
Board Chair Lori Ivey opened the event by recognizing sponsors whose commitment makes workforce development possible, including Copeland Insurance Group, Eastman Credit Union, Peltier Ford, Railserve, STEMCO, and VeraBank. She also honored local elected officials and education board members in attendance, acknowledging their leadership in advancing policy and partnerships that strengthen the region’s talent pipeline.
The luncheon featured the annual Big Red Apple Awards, sponsored by Gill Electric, celebrating businesses and faith organizations that invest their time and resources in students. Awardees included Alpine Church of Christ, Mobberly Baptist Church, Park View Baptist Church, and numerous companies supporting the Greater Longview United Way’s Imagination Library initiative — among them AAON, Atmos Energy, CenterPoint, Origin Bank, and Westlake Chemical Company. These organizations exemplify the Chamber’s mission of fostering community collaboration and literacy to build a stronger tomorrow.
A FOCUS ON WORKFORCE READINESS
Chamber COO Dave Jochum guided the program, emphasizing the importance of connecting education with business:
“Employers — your future talent is in our classrooms today. Educators — your best allies are in the business community. The workforce of tomorrow depends on the partnerships we build today.”
The program featured voices across the education and industry spectrum. Clare Bertrand of the College Board joined via livestream to discuss national trends in workforce readiness. U.S. Congressman Nathaniel Moran followed, highlighting legislative efforts to strengthen apprenticeship and skills training programs.
CONGRESSIONAL PERSPECTIVE
Congressman Moran underscored the importance of apprenticeships as hands-on pathways to success for students and direct talent pipelines for employers. He shared his ongoing efforts to expand workforce opportunities through initiatives such as the Building Youth Workforce Skills Act, which
allows workforce boards to fund skills training for in-school youth without increasing federal spending. Moran also emphasized the need to bridge education and employment opportunities, noting,
“Apprenticeships aren’t just programs — they’re real investments in our community’s future.”
In a lighthearted moment, Chamber leaders surprised Congressman Moran with a birthday cake — a small gesture symbolizing the camaraderie and partnership that fuel Longview’s collaborative spirit.
EDUCATION & EMPLOYER SPOTLIGHTS
Panel discussions highlighted innovative partnerships across local schools, colleges, and businesses. Leaders from LeTourneau University, Kilgore College, and Texas State Technical College shared strategies for aligning
academic programs with employer needs. Cathy Cace of Cace Kitchen discussed how businesses can offer students real-world experience, while CTE Directors John Gross (Longview ISD), and Jacob Lusk (Pine Tree ISD) showcased how local high schools are preparing students with certifications, skills, and experiences that lead to meaningful careers.
LOOKING AHEAD
The event closed with a challenge to attendees to take action — to mentor, to volunteer, and to partner with schools in developing the next generation of East Texas talent. As Jochum noted, the goal is not only inspiration but implementation.
The Chamber extends its gratitude to all sponsors, presenters, and participants who made this year’s State of the Workforce a success. Together, they’re ensuring that Longview’s workforce remains strong, adaptable, and ready for the opportunities ahead.
LongviewMATH:
The Longview Chamber of Commerce has launched LongviewMATH.com, a new initiative designed to connect schools, businesses, and community partners around one shared goal — building math confidence and careerconnected learning for Longview students.
wHy M ATH M ATT ers
Math isn’t just a subject — it’s a foundational skill that shapes critical thinking, problem solving, and future career success. Local educators have shared a growing concern: many students struggle with math fluency, which directly impacts workforce readiness. In response, the Chamber created LongviewMATH to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.
“Math is everywhere in the workforce — from budgeting and construction to engineering and healthcare,” said Kelly Hall, President & CEO of the Longview Chamber of Commerce. “Through LongviewMATH, we’re helping students see how what they’re learning today connects to their opportunities tomorrow.”
ConneCT ing CLAssrooMs
And THe CoMMuniT y
The new website, LongviewMATH.com, serves as a central hub for collaboration between educators and local businesses. Schools can share classroom needs, and businesses can discover ways to get involved — from volunteering and mentoring to sponsoring resources or classroom incentives.
ON THE SITE, VISITORS WILL FIND:
• WHY IT MATTERS: How math proficiency impacts the local economy and workforce development.
• WHAT SCHOOLS NEED: Volunteer opportunities and classroom requests submitted by teachers.
• HOW TO GET INVOLVED: Ways organizations, employees, and individuals can make a difference.
Building Confidence, Connections, and Career-Ready Skills
Each participating school has a designated contact listed on the “Get Involved” page, making it simple for local businesses and volunteers to connect directly and offer support.
A CoMMuniT y effor T for Longview’s fuTure
LongviewMATH is part of the Chamber’s broader H.E.A.R.T. strategic plan — focusing on Health, Education, Advocacy, Redevelopment, and Talent. Education and workforce readiness are vital components of Longview’s long-term economic success, and programs like LongviewMATH help strengthen the connection between education and employability.
“Just like our LongviewREADS initiative, this is about creating a community-wide movement,” said Morgan Wilcox, Business Development & Marketing Manager for the Chamber. “We want every student to feel confident in math and understand that these skills open doors — for them and for our region’s future workforce.”
ge T invoLved
The Chamber invites all community members, organizations, and employers to visit LongviewMATH.com to explore opportunities, sign up to help, and share the site within their networks.
Together, we can show students that math matters — and that their success adds up to a stronger, more prosperous Longview.
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Be the first Chamber member to find the hidden logo ‘bug’ in this issue of
and your company will get a 1/4 page ad in the next issue! When you find it email –mwilcox@longviewtx.com
You must identify the page # and exact location of the ‘bug’. The first person to correctly find it and email Morgan will be notified. You must be a member of the Longview Chamber of Commerce to get a free 1/4 page ad.