2023 Rising Stars

2023

OF GUADALUPE COUNTY

RECOGNIZING GUADALUPE COUNTY’S MOST PROMISING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

The goal of Seguin Young Professionals is to connect and engage career-oriented individuals through professional development, help Seguin grow and prosper, and to shape the future of Seguin by empowering young professionals.

Interested in learning more about Seguin Young Professionals?

Contact the Seguin Chamber of Commerce at cofc@seguinchamber.com or (830)379-6382.

Rising Stars of Guadalupe County seeks to recognize the county’s most promising young professionals in the areas of professional leadership and positive community impact.

COMMITTEE CHAIR

2023 SPONSORS

Kyle Kramm RISING STAR SPONSOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS Oscar Banda Madeline Zwicke-Dalman Elizabeth Engelhardt Desiree Gerland

® Kristy Kirkland Financial Advisor AWA R D S P O N S O R S

THE SEGUIN

Jericho Lomas Chelsea Roberts

Kathy Nossaman Financial AdvisorS E G U I N C H A M B E R S T A F F Maria Castilleja Katie Dickey Bethany Hernandez

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Chester Jenke

DELIVERING LIFE TO YOUR DOORSTEP SINCE 1888

PRODUCTION & DESIGN

GAZETTE

The Seguin Gazette - Desiree Gerland

C H A M B E R Real business, leaders, community.

Thank You

Benefiting Seguin Young Professionals (SYP) of the Seguin Chamber, funds raised will enhance SYP’s local professional development programs including the Lunch & Learn speaker series, networking events, and membership scholarships.

Congratulations the GUADALUPEtoCOUNTY UN AND THANK YOU FOR BEING A POSITIVE IMPACT ON SEGUIN AND GUADALUPE COUNTY.

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On Your Rising Star Nomination!

How to Give

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How to Give

For Being Named 2023 Rising Star of Guadalupe County

• Improve the quality of life in Credit card donations can be made at Guadalupe County www.guadalupeunitedway.org, click on “How to Give:” TACLB00116382E | TECL32802 800.223.4832 | gvec.org C H A M B E R business, leaders, community.

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Kyle Kramm Rising Star ‘22 Rising Stars Committee Chair Main Street & CVB Director City of Seguin

ongratulations to our Rising Stars of Guadalupe County.

We are pleased to be recognizing 10 young professionals who are leaders in their industries and in the community. Our Rising Stars represent diverse fields including real estate, government, legal, financial, marketing and more - all of them living and/or working in Guadalupe County.

Many of our Rising Stars grew up here, raising families here, serve on nonprofit boards, and making lasting impacts on their industries. Learn more about the honorees here in this publication.

The Rising Stars were recognized on December 7 at the Texas Theatre with a special reception to honor

their accomplishments and contributions to their industry and Guadalupe County. Thank you to our sponsors of the reception; The Seguin Gazette, GVEC, Texas Lutheran University, and Kristy Kirkland - Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

The Rising Stars of Guadalupe County is a program of the Seguin Young Professionals, a committee of the Seguin Chamber of Commerce. Rising Stars must be between 21 - 39 years old, live and/or work in Guadalupe County, and be a leader in the community.

We will be accepting nominations for the 2024 Rising Stars in the Spring of next year, so be thinking of the Rising Stars you know and get ready to share their stories.

THE 2023 RISING STARS AWARD RECIPIENTS ARE...

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Maria Castilleja

Katie Foerster

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Desiree Gerland

Hunter Hewell

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Kristy Kirkland

Chris Larson

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Jericho Lomas

Kasie Tankersley

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Ashlynn Read

Valerie Wood

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MARIA CASTILLEJA Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce - Membership Coordinator

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aria Castilleja is a native of S eg u in .

With two decades of customer service in Seguin, she has built a reputation for having a positive experience each time she assists her clients. She is the Membership Coordinator at the Seguin Chamber of Commerce. Her current position allows her to meet business owners and/or representatives who are looking for ways to get connected. She enjoys getting to showcase their businesses while building relationships along the way. She is empowered to be the person to help transform their experience in Seguin to be a positive experience. She, along with the love of her life, have two amazing teenagers.

Maria is the fourth child of her mother and they have a close relationship. She met her middle school sweetheart at the age of 13, and his family has played a huge part of her life ever since. Together, she and her husband have two outgoing teenagers and a

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ten-year-old lab. Recently, she celebrated her 15th wedding anniversary. Maria also has several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her best friends, who are like sisters to her, have been by her side for twenty plus years.

Maria loves both living and working in Guadalupe County for the accessibility to her family and community. She can work a full day’s work with still being able to be a hands-on mother, wife, daughter, volunteer. “The Seguin community has a way of taking you under their wings and making you feel included but you just need to look for the connections.

Being a part of groups in my community provides social connections, friendship, and so much more.” She and her husband purchased their first home in 2009 and their family’s roots have been growing ever since.

Maria’s greatest achievement was at her last company when she received the Golden Spoke award. Earning this award meant she made a significant and measurable impact on her clients and the

business. She also exhibited strength, teamwork, innovation, and perseverance.

Additionally, she was able to turn client empathy challenges into an opportunity to learn and improve her skills. Through this Maria was able to gain a reputation of integrity, trustworthiness, dependable and respect. Even after 15 years with her last company, she still maintains those relations with her prior clients. It’s a true testament to her dedication and strong connections she has built.

Personally, I would like to make both my teenagers good human beings. I want to be an active and involved mother and allow them to reach for all their goals.

Being a young married mother has been very rewarding and to be able to travel more has always been something I wanted to do.

Professionally, I would like to improve my mentorship. I know the positive impact it can take on being a mentor because I had one. So, to be able to do this for someone and excel in it would be something great for not only my mentee but for me too.

Rising Stars of Guadalupe County 2023

KATIE FOERSTER Keller Williams Heritage - REALTOR®

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e e t K a t i e Fo e r s t e r, R E A LTO R ® w i th a n unwavering commitment to helping clients fulfill their dreams. Katie is the proud wife of Dustin & devoted mother to Nash (5) & Charlie June (4).

Katie’s passion for real estate began at Texas State, where she earned a degree in Mass Communications & a minor in Business. Eat ‘em up! Katie received her Texas real estate license in 2012 & has since been serving her community, earning a stellar reputation for delivering results & professionalism. She is actively involved in serving her community, volunteering at their church, CrossFit workouts & family outings to Rockport!

My family is my firm foundation and my “why”. They are why I keep pursuing my dreams and goals. They push me to

continue to do better and be better. My family, specifically, my husband, assists as my teammate and partner in life. Raising two young kids, running a business and pursuing greatness is no easy task, but it’s worth it. I am incredibly grateful to have a phenomenal support system.

Guadalupe county has the nicest people on the planet. The opportunity to live,work and play in this area is one many dream about. The fact that I have the pleasure of living out that dream day in and day out is nothing short of a blessing.

My b i g g e s t p r o f e s s i o n a l accomplishment has not been one specific accomplishment rather it’s been the honor of serving each individual client who has trusted me to assist them in buying and selling. Real estate is a dynamic business that takes determination, grit, creativity and confidence. I am so grateful that I can

serve those around me in what’s typically their biggest financial investment.

I am looking forward to continuing to grow my business by “finding the who”, I am passionate about achieving my goals, but I also aspire to help others achieve their goals. By continuing to persevere in all aspects, I am thrilled to continue to find more opportunities to serve those around me. My family always comes first and I plan to continue pouring into my husband and children and enjoying the season we are in. We are abundantly blessed.

My favorite quote is by Zig Ziglar, “you can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” I love this quote and I feel like it is a perfect representation of what’s next for me both personally and professionally.

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DESIREE GERLAND Seguin Gazette - Magazine Editor and Thriving Hearts Crisis Center - Director of Development & Communications

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esiree Gerland is a dynamic creative professional with a multifaceted journey through the world of design, leadership, and community engagement. With a foundation as a Graphic Designer, Desiree has honed her ability to craft compelling visuals while collaborating seamlessly with crossdepartment teams and clients in the community.

Since 2019, she has flourished as the Creative Director at the Seguin Gazette, orchestrating impactful company advertisements and spearheading brand campaigns that breathe life into creative visions. Her leadership extends to her role as Seguin Magazine Editor, where she leads a creative team of designers, writers and photographers, curates captivating content, elevates layout aesthetics, and passionately spotlights the people, culture, and sense of community that Seguin has to offer.

Notably, her commitment radiates in her active participation within the community. From contributing to Seguin Young Professionals, to playing a vital role in Rising Stars of Guadalupe County event planning, and her involvement with Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter, she proves her dedication to uplifting those around her.

In her journey, Desiree weaves creativity, leadership, and community, 8

painting a portrait of a professional who not only excels in her roles but also enriches the lives of colleagues, family, and our community.

I have two amazing teenagers who constantly inspire and motivate me with their unwavering belief in me. My grandma and grandpa, both with a wealth of life experiences, offer support that has been instrumental in helping me navigate the challenges that come my way. I’m fortunate to have a wonderful boyfriend who not only provides emotional support but encourages me to be the best I can be. My friends and coworkers offer diverse perspectives, solutions to problems, and a strong sense of camaraderie. Together, they create a safety net of encouragement and companionship that I rely on.

What I truly cherish about living and working in Guadalupe County is the profound sense of belonging within the community. It’s a place where the ties run deep, and the family-oriented atmosphere is heartwarming. People genuinely support one another, making it feel like one big family.

Moreover, the county is filled with incredibly kind, creative, outgoing, and brilliant individuals with unwavering determination that fuels progress and growth, making Guadalupe County a place where dreams are nurtured and realized.

My most substantial professional accomplishment has been my journey of unwavering determination. Starting with the pursuit of a degree, I ventured into the professional world as a graphic designer with a relentless drive to find my path.

Through effort and passion in my role as Creative Director and Magazine Editor at the Seguin Gazette, I found that I could support my community with my creativity.

Today, I am honored to serve as the Director of Development and Communications at Thriving Hearts Crisis Center. This evolution represents not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the power of determination, growth, and adaptability in one’s professional life.

In my future professional endeavors, I eagerly anticipate the dual role of continuing as the magazine editor of Seguin Magazine and embracing my new position as Director of Development and Communication at Thriving Hearts Crisis Center. These roles align my passion for graphic design and community involvement, allowing me to make a meaningful impact.

For my personal endeavors, I’m excited about the possibility of relocating to different parts of the world, which opens up opportunities to explore and discover new ways to give back, further enriching my life and my commitment to helping others.

Rising Stars of Guadalupe County 2023

HUNTER HEWELL Moore Ganske Murr Sessions, PLLC - Attorney

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unter H. Hewell is an attorney with Moore Ganske Murr and Sessions. He was raised in Seguin and prides himself on being involved in our community.

Aside from serving local clients everyday with their estate planning, probate, and business law needs, he is active in several great organizations and clubs. Hunter is a member of the Geronimo Lion’s Club, the Seguin Young Professionals, of which he serves on the Lunch and Learn Planning Committee, is a board member with the Seguin Education Foundation and the Seguin Chamber of Commerce. He looks forward to many years of service to Guadalupe County.

I am grateful to have a supportive network of family and friends who give me the confidence to do what I do and also provide the support necessary in moments where things are difficult. I live with the two best girls I know, my beautiful wife Katy and my daughter, Phoebe. I have wonderful parents, Tres and Melanie Hewell who have laid the foundation for my life and continue to support and

guide me in nearly everything I do. I also have great in-laws, aunts and uncles, and cousins who all play a role in supporting my work here in Guadalupe County. Finally, the team at Moore Ganske Murr Sessions pllc is a great group of colleagues and friends that not only push my professional growth, but that also aid in my personal growth here in Guadalupe County.

What I love about living and working in Guadalupe County is that it is one of the fastest growing areas in the country, but maintains that down-to-earth Texas feel.

Tradition is valued here. When you go out to restaurants or walk in the bank or go to the grocery store, you will run into people you know and they will always extend a willing handshake and a few kind words. Guadalupe County works hard to honor its traditions and history and to remain true to those ideals. The local culture, combined with the exciting growth, makes this a place where you can get the best of both worlds in terms of a great place to raise a family while also having lots of exciting professional opportunities.

I would say that my biggest professional accomplishment so far would have to be my involvement with several

community organizations that are really making a difference here locally. Although I am pretty early into my career I have had the opportunity to serve on several boards and committees, most notably the Seguin Chamber of Commerce Board and the Seguin Education Foundation Board.

Both of those organizations are making a tangible difference in our community and I am very proud to have served on both of those boards and to have (I hope) contributed to their success.

I’m looking forward to watching my daughter grow up in this community and hopefully fall in love with the area like I did as a kid. I’m also excited to see how Guadalupe County embraces the challenge of growing, while maintaining those cultural things that set us apart. I think we are up for the challenge. I’m glad to be living and working here during this time period as I think that it is going to take a lot of diligent and passionate young professionals to help usher in the growth, but to do so in an ethical and responsible way so that we don’t lose sight of those values and relationships that make this area special.

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KRISTY KIRKLAND Edward Jones Investments - Financial Advisor

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risty Kirkland is a secondgeneration Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Growing up in the business, she learned the importance of financial planning at a young age. Kristy saw the positive impact that a successful financial plan can make on families for generations to come. Those early experiences led her to a career as a Financial Advisor.

Outside of work, Kristy is a proud wife, and mother of 3 little girls. When she is not organizing a community event, she is often traveling. Kristy has visited almost all 50 states and stops at every historical marker along the highway.

I have an amazing village of supporters. My family has always been my biggest cheerleaders. My husband keeps me grounded while supporting all my crazy dreams. My mom is my best friend, she is a constant in my life. I followed

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in my father’s footsteps as a Financial Advisor, so my dad has been my mentor and someone I try to emulate personally and professionally. My team at the office, Tiffany and Sarah are more than just “work friends” they are my sounding boards. They motivate and inspire me each day. My daughters are my reason for never settling.

I instantly fell in love with all history in this area. I grew up visiting this area and floating the river in the summers, so living in the county was exciting. I love the energy and beauty of downtown Seguin.

Our beautiful, historic, and growing community has so many hidden gems.

I especially love all the magic around the holidays here. Seguin’s Christmas events and all the events downtown. It reminds me of all the adorable Hallmark movies, as if we live in our own southern hospitality Hallmark movie and it doesn’t get much be er than that!

In 2023 I was asked to take a larger

leadership position within our firm, and it has been so rewarding. In this role, I help coach and develop other Edward Jones branch teams in our region to deliver a wonderful client experience that our firm is known for around the country.

As I work with the other branch teams, I end up learning just as much as them, if not more. I am in the position to give back to other advisors and help, just as I was helped and developed over the last 11 years.

I look forward to watching my daughters grow. Its bittersweet, but it is still so fun! Their personalities are already shining through and each one so unique.

I feel very blessed to have a front seat in their journey’s. I also look forward to continuing to grow professionally to better serve my clients and our community.

Seguin has been so good to my family, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for our town. I’ll keep living the dream in Seguin!

Rising Stars of Guadalupe County 2023

CHRIS LARSON Blue Horizon Media - Owner

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hris Larson, although not native to the area, has become deeply connected to the city as if he were a native son. He relocated here in 2006 with the intention of inspiring a positive transformation in the local culture.

Chris possesses a genuine passion for giving back to his community through various means. Whether it’s providing nourishment to the underprivileged, mentoring young individuals, motivating local sports teams, or fostering engagement in local business development, Chris selflessly contributes without seeking recognition.

This philanthropic spirit was the driving force behind the establishment of Blue Horizon Media, a company dedicated to instilling a sense of community and support in all who lend an ear. Chris aspires to remain authentic, whether on stage delivering sermons, behind the camera filming, or simply shopping at HEB, consistently exhibiting love for his neighbors and a desire to witness them flourish in their respective callings from God. My wife is the cornerstone of my support system. Her unwavering encouragement and understanding empower me to excel in my role. My family, too, plays a crucial role

in my journey, offering a safety net of love, guidance,and practical assistance. Beyond that, my church community provides spiritual and emotional sustenance, knowing my purpose is deeper than just Sunday morning, but bringing cultural change to our area. Together, these relationships create an amazing support network, holding my arms up when I get ti red.

Family, friends,and the church community embody the importance of community in maintaining a strong foundation, while letting me use Blue Horizon to be so much more than just a media company.

Even though I love my Alabama roots; this is home now. The deep sense of community is what truly captivates me. Every corner of the county is intertwined with memories and relationships, making it feel like an extended family. Walking into town guarantees a warm encounter with someone I care about, even if it makes my HEB trips longer. The tightknit bonds and the genuine camaraderie in Guadalupe County are unparalleled. It’s the collective spirit, the genuine smiles, and the shared moments that make every day here a treasure, making me appreciate the profound sense of belonging in this welcoming community.

My most significant professional accomplishment is undoubtedly the fact

that I haven’t compromised my family or my authentic self while striving for success in business and contributing to church growth.

I’ve maintained my integrity and identity, consistently being the same person at home as I am in the city. This balance has allowed me to nurture strong family bonds and stay true to my values while making meaningful contributions to my professional and spiritual communities.

It’s not just about personal achievements; it’s about the harmony I’ve struck between different aspects of my life, which I consider my most meaningful accomplishment.

I am eagerly anticipating the future, both on personal and professional fronts.

My ultimate aspiration is to drive lasting change in my city, redefining the way people perceive and speak about it. I aim to lead by example,fostering a sense of pride and unity. This is because one day, they will speak different about my home, and I will get to say I helped hold the pen writing our new identity.

What excites me most is the prospect of bringing those I hold dear with me on this journey. I want to ensure they have a seat at the table, share in the vision, and collectively contribute to the positive transformation of our community while achieving things they only dreamed of. If I eat, they eat too. If I go, they go to. Together.

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JERICHO LOMAS Pecan City Disc Golf Shop - Co-Owner Jericho Lomas is a part-time Partner at H-E-B and works full-time as a Co-Owner at Pecan City Disc Golf Shop. With over 8 years of experience in the art of aerodynamic plastic, he has honed his skills and expertise in this exciting sport. Through his extensive knowledge, Jericho contributes to the advancement and popularity of disc golf. Beyond that, he has become deeply involved in the community, participating in a range of activities.

His influence has transcended the role of a disc golf teacher and his participation in various community initiatives has allowed him to evolve into a multifaceted mentor and helper. One of his passions revolves around youth development. He actively serves as a positive role model for them, engaging in numerous programs, groups, and activities tailored to their growth and well-being.

He enjoys spending time at Starcke Park, where he can be found tossing discs.

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In addition, he loves playing pickleball and spending time with his fur babies, Beets and Juan Diego.

Everything that I’m able to do, outside of Pecan City, is all because of my parents, Adam & Lisa Lomas, and my brother, AJ Lomas. Without their constant help working the shop and assisting me at various events, I would not be able to serve my community as much as I do. On top of that, my brother does an amazing job making sure all of our social media accounts look clean and professional.

What I love the most about working in Guadalupe County is the people.

Everyone is so supportive of new business ventures and helping bring each other up as a community. I feel very lucky to have been born and raised here and watching it grow from what it was, to what it is today is super exciting.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is seeing all the new people playing disc golf because of Pecan City. The kids

may have learned at a clinic I put on at school. A family may have gotten into it because they didn’t know where to start, so they came into the shop to ask questions. Or they may have seen us at one of the many community events we were involved in.

Either way,it’s so refreshing to see others enjoy Disc Golf just as much as I do.

In my future endeavors, I look forward to continuing growing Disc Golf and Pickleball in Guadalupe County and showing kids that there are other sports they can play besides the main Along with that, I want to help bring more courses to our beautiful city and one day be able to host a big professional tournament here. As far as my main personal goal, I want to grow into a community leader that can be a positive role model for kids who grew up like I did.

Certain circumstances that they never asked to be in or can even control definitely make growing up hard. But showing them that anything is possible is what is most important to me.

Rising Stars of Guadalupe County 2023

KASIE TANKERSLEY Guadalupe Valley Electrical Cooperative - Community Relations Representative

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asie Tankersley is a Community Relations Representative.

She began her career with GVEC in 2017 as a customer service representative and quickly transitioned into her current role. As the community relations representative, Kasie can be found giving community presentations to all ages on electrical safety, energy efficiency or GVEC products and services, representing GVEC at community events, planning GVEC events as well as being active in the communities GVEC serves.

Tankersley holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Parks and Tourism Science from Texas A&M University.

Kasie is a member of several committees and organizations throughout the GVEC territory and enjoys serving as a community partner. Kasie and her son, Boone and reside in La Vernia.

I am beyond blessed to have such a great support system to help with my busy professional schedule and my responsibilities at home. This system includes some of those that are near and dear to me including my parents, Ronald and Lovene Fey and my brother, Darren Fey. They are always more

than willing to help with my sweet boy, Boone . Which might include things such as after school homework, soccer/baseball practice, dinner and bedtime routine.

Boone, too, is very supportive of Mommy’s community involvement and loves to tag along when he is able to. He loves serving his community, too!

My co-workers along with the management of GVEC is very supportive of my numerous community roles and commitments. At GVEC, we are committed to our local communities. Also, a large part of my community involvement involves the chamber board and committees I serve on.

I have been surrounded by such servant leaders and wouldn’t be able to do half of the things I do without their willingness to help and serve.

Boone and I have been blessed to live in a really neat neighborhood where our neighbors have become an extension of our family. There have been nights when we have been gifted dinner, treats or even a much needed mowed lawn after a long week out serving our community. They are so kind and generous.

After college, I lived and worked in several other communities across Texas.

There is nothing like the one we have right here. We might be growing but the small town, neighbor taking care of neighbor is still present. Being able to come back “home” and serve my own community has been a real treat and blessing.

In May of 2021, I received the GVEC Monroe Schauer Employee of the Year Award. I was honored to be nominated and selected by my fellow peers at GVEC for this award. At GVEC, there are so many deserving individuals that work selflessly daily for our members and to be recognized by them has been a top professional accomplishment. This is one honor that I will not forget.

The good Lord has blessed me tremendously especially the past couple of years by placing me a in a career at GVEC that doesn’t ever feel like work even on a 12 hour work day. Each day is a new adventure and I get to meet so many people across the Guadalupe Valley that are out making a difference in their local communities.

It’s inspiring to be out working alongside these individuals. I am looking forward to continuing my career at GVEC and serving our membership. My sweet little family will continue to love and serve others.

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ASHLYNN READ Seguin Economic Development Corporation - Industry and Workforce Development Manager

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shlynn Read is a dynamic and results-driven professional as well as a driven human being with a passion for driving growth and innovation. With a proven track record in economic development, she has demonstrated exceptional people skills that consistently translate vision into action. As a business retention specialist, Ashlynn has honed her expertise in communications propelling projects to success and making a tangible impact.

Committed to excellence and equipped with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications, Ashlynn approaches challenges with a strategic mindset and a keen eye for detail. Her exceptional communication skills have fostered meaningful partnerships and yielded impressive outcomes.

Whether the TX FAME Lone Star Chapter, Seguin Youth Career Expo, Seguin Job Shadow Day, made in Seguin Tour, the list could go on, Ashlynn’s dedication to the City of Seguin & the Seguin Economic Development Corporation is evident in every endeavor.

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within her career and her passions opening Boundless Roots Yoga, her/his passion and proficiency will undoubtedly contribute to continued success in economic development and the health and wellness of the City of Seguin overall. Ashlynn is mama to two lovely children, Violet and Archer Read and has been married to her best friend, Dustin Read for five years! When Ashlynn isn’t working, you’ll find her at the gym or spending time with her family and friends.

My husband serves as my unwavering pillar of support in all my career endeavors and personal passions. My children stand as my most enthusiastic cheerleaders, while my friends consistently show up whenever I need their encouragement in my journey. I’m thankful for my village of people.

Residing and working in Guadalupe County allows me to stay closely connected to my core values of nurturing my hometown and making a meaning ful impact. Moreover, the individuals I collaborate with in this community are not only genuine but also genuinely caring.

Undoubtedly, the most significant milestone in my career has been the establishment of the TXFAME Lone Star Chapter, which became the third FAME chapter in the State of Texas.

This groundbreaking achievement has reshaped the landscape of workforce development in our industry, as it played a pivotal role in advocating for legislation that granted TSTC the authorization to operate in our region.

I eagerly anticipate the ongoing opportunity to maximize the impact of our established workforce initiatives right here in Seguin. My commitment is to maintain our innovative approach and foster stronger connections with local industries. On a personal note, I’m an aspiring entrepreneur with a deep desire to contribute to our community’s well-being through health and wellness. I’m excited to share my passion for yoga and its benefits with our community. It’s also essential to mention that I always strive to inspire my children to embrace challenges, do hard things and believe in their limitless potential to achieve whatever they set their minds to.

Rising Stars of Guadalupe County 2023

VALERIE WOOD Texas Lutheran University - Associate Director of Annual Giving

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alerie Wood is an accomplished young professional with a love of learning and flair for creativity.

Valerie earned a Bachelor of Business Administration Marketing from Texas Lutheran University and a Master of Science in Digital Communication Analytics from the University of North Texas. Valerie’s expertise spans non-profit work from fundraising and marketing to donor and corporate relations.

As an avid learner and explorer, she embraces challenges and seeks opportunities to gain knowledge from others within the community. With an unwavering passion for creating a positive impact, Valerie continues to aim high, driven by her aspirations and dedication to excellence.

My parents, Joe and JoAnn, siblings Natalie and Naomi and their families, my amazing Great-Aunt Alga, as well as my friends, play a pivotal role in my professional journey by creating an environment that encourages dreaming big and stepping outside of one’s comfort

zone. They’ve instilled in me the belief that we can make significant changes in the world. Their unwavering support and the values they’ve imparted inspire me to push boundaries and strive for excellence in my role. Knowing that I can make a positive impact, no matter the scale, keeps me motivated and fulfilled in my work.

Guadalupe County, particularly Seguin, is more than just a place to live and work; it’s my home. I feel an overwhelming sense of belonging here, like being a part of one big, welcoming family. This vibrant community and the breathtaking natural surroundings make it even more special. Seguin and Guadalupe County continue to offer unwavering support. It’s in this closeknit environment that I’m motivated to give my best and contribute to the legacy of our community. It’s a privilege to call Seguin and Guadalupe County home, and I’m dedicated to helping create the best community possible.

My most significant professional accomplishment has been the transition into supporting my beloved alma mater,

Texas Lutheran University. It’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to the institution that played a pivotal role in shaping me into the person I am today. Through this role, I’ve been able to give back not only to the university but also to the wonderful communities of Seguin and Guadalupe County. Knowing that I’m making a tangible impact on the lives of students and helping sustain an amazing institution makes this achievement all the more meaningful. It’s a fulfilling journey of gratitude, growth, and giving back.

I’m eagerly anticipating a future filled with personal and professional growth right here in this wonderful community.

I aim to establish deep roots, raise my family, and contribute to the growth and well-being of this supportive environment.

Professionally, as an ambitious young professional, I’m excited to step into leadership roles, further enhancing my career and making a lasting impact in my field. It’s a thrilling journey of building a future in a place I love and advancing in my career, all while creating a fulfilling life for my future family.

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CO N G R AT U L AT I O N S R I S I N G S TA R S AWA R D R E C I P I E N T S WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING HOW YOU WILL CHANGE AND GROW SEGUIN

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C H A M B E R Real business, leaders, community.