ABOUT US
meet your chamber
Your McKinney Chamber of Commerce is here to support and empower local businesses through valuable resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts.
About
For over a century, the McKinney Chamber of Commerce has been dedicated to serving the McKinney business community, the city, and the broader North Texas Region.
With a membership base of almost 1,200 businesses. Its exceptional service has earned it the prestigious recognition of being a 5-star accredited Chamber by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a distinction achieved by only 1% of Chambers nationwide.
As our community and region continue to experience growth, the McKinney Chamber’s role becomes increasingly vital in fostering economic health and enhancing the business environment crucial to the success of our members.
Recognizing the inseparable link between the economic vitality of McKinney and Collin County and the overall quality of life within our community, our strategic plan outlines a comprehensive roadmap of internal and external objectives for the organization.
Aligned with our mission to “Lead, Connect, and Empower our Stakeholders to Advance Business and Community Excellence,” our focus is on the following priority areas:
- Delivering Value to Our Members: Offering innovative membership benefits and resources to give our members a competitive advantage.
- Advancing Community Excellence: Taking a leadership role alongside key stakeholders in advancing business and community priorities.
- Developing Organizational Sustainability: Creating a five-star organization poised for current and future success.
City of McKinney – Unique By Nature
McKinney, a city renowned for its inherent uniqueness, encapsulates the vibrant spirit of our community. From the bustling historic downtown and the enchanting Adriatica Village, inspired by Croatian architecture, to the tranquil natural landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities, McKinney offers a tapestry of experiences that define its distinct character. These elements not only shape our community’s identity but also provide cherished gathering spots for families and friends, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.
Nestled just 30 miles north of downtown Dallas, McKinney epitomizes picturesque charm with a close-knit small-town atmosphere, all while being conveniently situated near the bustling Metroplex. Despite its rapid growth, McKinney maintains its friendly allure, characterized by lush green spaces and a relaxed pace, inviting residents and visitors alike to savor its unique ambiance.
As the county seat of Collin County, McKinney stands as a beacon of progress and opportunity. With a current population of 215,667 and a steady annual growth rate of 1.93%, McKinney continues to evolve while preserving its distinct Southern charm. Embracing a balanced way of life and an authentic sense of place, McKinney proudly earns its moniker as “Unique by Nature.”
The accolades speak for themselves, with Money Magazine recognizing McKinney’s blend of modernity and Southern hospitality, highlighting its status as a hub for growth-industry jobs and its commitment to career and college preparation within its schools. McKinney’s journey is one of dynamic growth, where tradition meets innovation, and community spirit thrives.
Your Chamber Staff
Get to know the dedicated team behind the McKinney Chamber of Commerce. Don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know how we can assist in helping your business thrive in McKinney.
Lisa Hermes, CCE, IOM
CCE, IOM, President and CEO
Lisa Hermes brings big ideas, great energy, and a deep love for McKinney to her role as President & CEO of the Chamber. A former journalist turned chamber leader, she’s all about helping local businesses grow, connect, and be heard—because advocacy and business-friendly policy are her love language. Always thinking about what’s next, Lisa is focused on keeping McKinney thriving. When she’s off the clock, she’s likely traveling, reading, or making memories with her family.
Linda Imai-Dixon
Finance & Administration Director
Linda brings focus, drive, and a “get-it-done” mindset to her role as Finance and HR Director at the McKinney Chamber. With a knack for solving just about anything (our resident MacGyver), she keeps the behind-the-scenes running smoothly so businesses and the team can thrive. She’s fueled by a love of a good challenge, a little friendly competition, and making things work better every day. Outside the office, Linda is all about adventure and spending time with her family.
Barb Delk
Business Development Director
Barb brings curiosity, heart, and a true talent for connection to her role as Business Development Director at the McKinney Chamber. With a background in banking and community-focused sales, she loves getting to know people and helping them find exactly who—or what—they need to grow. A natural connector, she’s probably already thinking of three people you should meet while you’re mid-conversation. Always learning and always looking out for others, Barb makes sure every member feels seen, supported, and plugged in.
Jordin Tate
Programs Manager
Jordin brings thoughtfulness, creativity, and a problem-solving mindset to her role as Programs Manager at the McKinney Chamber. She’s all about building strong relationships and creating programs that truly meet people where they are. With a knack for finding solutions and fresh ideas, Jordin is always looking for ways to make things work better for members. And if there’s a Chiefs game on, you can bet she’s cheering them on loud and proud.
Molly Courtright
Events and Community Engagement Director
Molly brings creativity and a love of storytelling to her role as Events and Community Engagement Director at the McKinney Chamber. A former theater teacher, she enjoys creating fun, meaningful experiences and helping businesses shine. When she’s not planning events, she’s a mom, musical lover, avid reader, and Jeopardy fan who’s all about making connections that matter.
Tami Tobar
Tami Tobar brings heart, enthusiasm, and a servant’s spirit to her role as Investor Relations Manager at the McKinney Chamber. She loves helping members get plugged in, make meaningful connections, and get the most out of their Chamber membership. Tami is the first to jump in when someone needs a helping hand, whether she’s serving through local nonprofits or supporting a fellow member. When she’s not cheering others on, you’ll find her loving all things pink and Betty Boop, spending time with her family, and embracing her favorite role of all—Grami Tami.
Investor Relations Manager
ttobar@mckinneychamber.com
Patrick Russo
New Investor Manager
Pat Russo brings energy, personality, and a true love of people to his role as New Investor Manager at the McKinney Chamber. A New Jersey native and natural connector, he’s all about building relationships and helping businesses find their place and thrive within the community. Pat never meets a stranger—and he’s probably already thinking about who you should meet next. Outside of work, he’s a devoted family man who enjoys classic rock and cheering on the Jets.
prusso@mckinneychamber.com
The Chamber Board
Meet our incredible board of directors that serve our community.
Brian Lauer
Brian Lauer is the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – McKinney. Baylor Scott & White Health, the largest not-for-profit health system in Texas, is an integrated delivery network with more than 52,000 employees, 7,100 physicians, and 12 million patient encounters annually.
C’Ella Clayton
C’Ella Clayton is a marketing and business development leader with more than 20 years of experience in commercial and residential real estate, focused on growth strategy, brand positioning, and revenue-driving initiatives. She also brings extensive board and nonprofit leadership experience focused on governance, fundraising, and community impact. C’Ella is a graduate of Texas A&M University.
Dave Macedonia
Dave Macedonia is the Vice President of Industrial with Emerson’s Pressure Management business unit in McKinney, Texas. During most of his decade-long career in general management with Emerson, he has lived in and around McKinney. Prior to Emerson, he served in the United States Navy as a submarine officer for seven years.
Elizabeth Mahusay
Elizabeth passionately invests her time in helping others transform their thinking. As an author, executive business coach, and speaker, Elizabeth loves seeing growth in others. Whether through her books, her Youtube content or her weekly podcast –Thinking that Matters, she shares leadership lessons and provides content that’s encouraging, relevant, and applicable.
Allison Monroe
Allison Monroe is an impact-driven community leader and housing advocate, serving as a Commissioner for the McKinney Housing Authority and on the Board of Directors for the McKinney Chamber of Commerce. She is the Owner and Principal Strategist of LUMA Media Agency, where she works with nonprofit organizations to lead advocacy-focused public relations and communications efforts that elevate mission and impact.
Harold McLeod
Harold McLeod is a Senior Vice President in Commercial Banking at First United Bank, where he helps business owners grow through strategic financial guidance and
relationship-driven service. He has over 35 years of financial experience and is actively involved in the McKinney business community, where he recently served as board
chairman for the McKinney Chamber of Commerce and as the president of the Rotary Club
of McKinney.
Deanna Easley
Deanna Easley is a communications strategist, public sector storyteller, and Director of Communications and Outreach for LifePath Systems, Collin County’s behavioral health authority. She specializes in crisis communications, community engagement, executive messaging, and helping organizations communicate with clarity during moments of change. With experience spanning behavioral health, corporate communications, advocacy, and media, Deanna has built a reputation for translating complex issues into messages people can understand, trust, and act on. She has led communications through high-pressure situations, supported major public awareness efforts, and helped secure visibility for programs serving thousands of North Texas residents.
Monica Szewczyk
Monica Szewczyk is a dedicated real estate professional and co-founder of the Texas Property Sisters, proudly serving clients throughout McKinney and the Dallas Metroplex.
Known for her approachable personality, strong communication, and commitment to exceptional service, Monica helps buyers and sellers in all price ranges, confidently
navigate the fast-growing North Texas real estate market. Monica graduated from the University of Kansas, where she met her husband of 33 years,
beginning a partnership that has shaped both her personal and professional journey. Together they have two daughters and a beloved lab rescue, Sugar.
Whitney Nash
Whitney Nash, CES® is the owner of Above & Below 1031 LLC in McKinney, Texas, where she provides Qualified Intermediary services to help clients navigate the complexities of 1031 exchanges.
Whitney is actively engaged in the local community and the real estate industry. In addition to serving on the board for the McKinney Chamber of Commerce, Whitney sits on the boards for McKinney Main Street and CREW Dallas’s nonprofit, CREW in the Community.
Whitney lives in McKinney with her husband, Jeff, their young son, and the sweetest shelter-rescue dog.