The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the newest additions to its Board of Directors. The annual Board Election held earlier this month confirmed three local leaders to help direct the Chamber over the next three years from October 2025 to September 2028. The newly-elected directors are: Jiro DeLoach, Frost Bank; Beth Gibbons, Tanger Outlets San Marcos; and Susanne Ritter, Gary Job Corps Center.

These three accomplished individuals bring a wide range of expertise and community insight to the Chamber. Each is committed to strengthening the local economy, fostering connections, and supporting a thriving business environment. As they step into their roles, the San Marcos Area Chamber is poised to embrace enhanced collaboration, and growth.

“We are excited to welcome these new directors to the Chamber’s leadership team,” said Page Michel, President & CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “Their knowledge, passion, and dedication will help us continue advancing opportunities for Chamber members and the San Marcos business community.”

As of October 1st, the 2025–2026 Chamber Board of Directors will have new officers and include the following directors who are currently serving terms on the board:

Chair: Brooke Damron, The Damron Group Realtors
Past Chair: Cassidy Berenato, Tx Aviation Partners
Kevin Wolf, Cobb Fendley

Randy Bryan, tekRESCUE

Crystal Dixon, Edward Jones

Elizabeth Ehlers, Lower Colorado River Authority
Jo Anna Gilland, Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative

Eddie Glidewell, Comfy Air

John Hardy, Divided Sky Roofing & Solar

Joey Harkrider, Green Guy Recycling

Bob Honeycutt, CHRISTUS Health

Mike Kamerlander, Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership

Jose Lozano, Cude Engineers

Kristan Machado, KnD’s Boutique

Ashley Olson, Southern With A French Twist

Josh Paselk, Corridor Home & Commercial/Sagebrush Landscaping

The San Marcos Area Chamber was established in 1903 and remains dedicated to promoting local business success through advocacy, education, and networking. The Chamber’s efforts continue to strengthen the local economy and provide valuable resources to members.

Over 600 area businesses, nonprofits, educators and civic groups belong to the Chamber to receive a wide range of benefits, from marketing to network-building, leadership development and advocacy.

For more information about Chamber membership and events, visit SanMarcosTexas.com or contact the San Marcos Area Chamber at 512-393-5900 or chamber@sanmarcostexas.com.

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Full Bios of New Board Members

Jiro DeLoach – Frost Bank, Assistant Vice President

Jiro is an Assistant Vice President serving Frost customers in the San Marcos region. In his role, he is responsible for building business relationships in the community and introducing small clients and prospects to the full suite of products and services. In 2019, he started at Frost as an Associate Relationship Manager for the first two years, then served as a Relationship Banking Officer for the next two years, and he has held the role of Relationship Manager since October 2023. Jiro is a graduate of Texas State University and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance. He is dedicated to his professional development and completed Credit training and was also previously a licensed real estate agent. Jiro also helps run a commercial real estate opportunities group in Hays County. Committed to being actively engaged in the community, Jiro is a proud board member of School Fuel San Marcos – a nonprofit that works to fight childhood hunger and provide weekend meals to students facing food insecurity in SMCISD. Outside of the public eye, Jiro is very active at his local church as a vessel to love and serve others. Jiro lives in San Marcos with his wife Courtney and daughter Elaina. San Marcos has been home to Jiro since 2014.

Beth Gibbons – Tanger Outlets San Marcos, General Manager

Beth is the General Manager of Tanger Outlets San Marcos, bringing over 15 years of leadership experience within the Tanger organization and nearly two decades in the hospitality and food & beverage industry. A native of Western New York, Beth grew up on a farm, which instilled a strong work ethic and hands-on approach that have shaped her career. She has successfully led teams and projects across four Tanger locations, driving operational excellence and multimillion-dollar initiatives. Beth holds an Associate’s Degree in Business Management from Empire State University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Liberty University. She is recognized for her strategic thinking, cost-saving innovations, and ability to build strong partnerships with tenants, vendors, and stakeholders. Her commitment to community is reflected in her volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity and her past service with Bridging the Gap Ministry. Now based in San Marcos, Beth enjoys spending time with her children and granddaughter in Fort Worth. She’s an avid gardener, reader, baker, and traveler, and shares her home with five cats. 

Susanne Ritter – Gary Job Corps Center, Career and Technical Training Manager

Susanne grew up in San Marcos and graduated from San Marcos High School in 1996. She is married to Donnie Ritter and they have 5 sons, one daughter, and two granddaughters. Her hobbies include time with family, making memories, attending mass, and simply enjoying life. She has been serving the youth at Gary Job Corps Center for 26 years. Her experience in the Job Corps Program is in Career Transition Readiness, Career Transition Services, Business Engagement Liaison, and Career Technical Training Manager. Susanne is active in the community and is currently on the San Marcos Regional Airport Advisory Board. She has served as Past Chair of the Chamber’s Ambassadors Club. In 2017 she was honored with a Shining Stars Under 40 award. She has volunteered at nursing homes, for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Drive, and collecting donations for Hays County Food Bank, Hays-Caldwell Women’s Shelter and San Marcos Animal Shelter, among other organizations. Susanne is a continued member of the Community Relations Council for Gary Job Corps, which works with the San Marcos community to serve and build partnerships with the Center. 

San Marcos, TX — The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to spotlight a meaningful opportunity to support the success of local students: the Reading Buddies program, a volunteer initiative led by Communities In Schools of Central Texas. The Chamber is encouraging business leaders, professionals, and residents across the community to get involved in making a difference.

Reading Buddies connects adult volunteers with elementary school students for weekly, one-on-one reading sessions held during school hours. These consistent interactions help students strengthen their reading skills, boost self-confidence, and develop a lifelong love of learning—one book, one student, one hour at a time.

“Strong readers make strong students, and strong students build a stronger San Marcos,” said Page Michel, President of the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce. “We’re proud to help raise awareness for the Reading Buddies program and encourage our members and neighbors to get involved in this important effort.”

The program is organized and managed by Communities In Schools of Central Texas (CIS), and the Chamber is jumping on board to amplify the call for volunteers—particularly within the local business community. Volunteers are asked to commit just one hour per week with the same student throughout the school year or a single semester, offering consistent caring support that can have a lasting impact both inside and outside the classroom.

Decades of research have shown that early literacy is a key predictor of future academic achievement, high school graduation rates, and career readiness. By supporting initiatives like Reading Buddies, the San Marcos Chamber and business community are investing in a brighter, more resilient future for the city.

In addition to Reading Buddies, Communities In Schools offers other volunteer opportunities, including Math Buddies and a Mentors program. All of these roles give community members a chance to get involved to build meaningful relationships that empower students to succeed..

It’s fast and easy to register online and get full details in your in-box! Visit ciscentraltexas.org/volunteer.

Reach out to the Chamber with any questions at chamber@sanmarcostexas.com or call 512-393-5900.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education, and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

[September 9, 2025] The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 “Back the Bobcats” Decorating Contest, a community-wide campaign held in August to rally support for Texas State University Bobcats ahead of the first home football game.

Businesses across San Marcos showed off their Bobcat spirit by decorating storefronts, offices, and windows in maroon and gold, creating a festive atmosphere to welcome back students, alumni and visitors.

“Through this campaign, businesses make it visible how much they love and support the university,” said Page Michel, president and CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber. “The creativity they put on display celebrates Bobcat icons and traditions, and it creates a warm welcome for the thousands of people who come to town for game day.”

Stop by these locations to see the Bobcat pride at this year’s winning businesses, including:

Best Exterior: Hays County Outfitters, 690 Centerpoint Rd.
Best Interior: First-Lockhart National Bank, 2507 Hunter Rd.
Best Window Display: The San Market, 114 E. San Antonio St.
Spirit Award: McNabb & Co. Real Estate and Edward Jones–Jason Dixon, 1920 Corporate Dr.
First Timer Award–Exterior: Little Leaders Childcare Center, 400 Uhland Rd.
First Timer Award–Interior: San Marcos Academy, 2801 Ranch Rd. 12
Honorable Mention Exterior: Amber Leighe Armer State Farm, 460 W. Holland Rd.
Honorable Mention Exterior: Mano Amiga, 174 S. Guadalupe St.
Honorable Mention Interior: Chick-fil-A at Aquarena Springs
Honorable Mention Window Display: Texas Regional Bank, 310 Wonder World Dr.
Honorable Mention Window Display: Corridor Title Company, 133 W. San Antonio St.

Four other noteworthy businesses include: KnD’s Boutique at 312 N. LBJ Drive, myDental at 1430 N I-35,  Sadler House Apartments at 1271 Sadler Drive, and Kdamp’s Pizza (Gumby’s Pizza) at 312 W. Hopkins Street. All of these businesses won prizes and were recognized on-field at the Bobcats home opener football game and on social media.

“Back the Bobcats” is in its third year and has quickly grown into a San Marcos tradition, encouraging community pride while spotlighting the strong bond between the university and local businesses.

The Chamber extends special thanks to the volunteer judges who visited each location, Beth Damphousse, Summer Kinne, Marci Coryell and Blair Trout; plus Chuck Nash Auto Group for providing transportation; and Texas State Football Coach David Bailiff for driving judges across the route.

Area businesses are encouraged to get ready to promote San Marcos CISD in the weeks leading up to the Homecoming football game in the annual “Rally for the Rattlers” Decorating Contest, Oct. 20-24. For details on this and other Chamber programs and events, visit www.SanMarcosTexas.com.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

SAN MARCOS, Texas (August 15, 2025) — The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership (HCEDP), is proud to announce the 2025 State of Workforce & Higher Education business luncheon will take place on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, at the San Marcos Conference Center.

This annual event brings together leaders in business, education, and economic development for an impactful discussion on how higher education is shaping the region’s workforce. The luncheon provides a platform to address key trends, opportunities, and challenges affecting both industry and education across Central Texas.

“This summit is one of the most important conversations we host each year,” said Page Michel, President and CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “It connects our business community directly with education leaders who are shaping the talent pipelines of tomorrow.”

Featured speakers for this year’s event include:

• Dr. Kelly Damphousse, President of Texas State University
• Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, Chancellor of Austin Community College
• Mike Anderson, Provost of Texas State Technical College – New Braunfels Campus

“To build a thriving economy, we must invest in the vital connection between education and the workforce,” said Mike Kamerlander, President and CEO of HCEDP. “Events like this bring our region together to hear from thought leaders and strengthen the partnerships that drive growth.”

Registration and sponsorship information is available on the San Marcos Area Chamber website. This is a must-attend event for employers, educators, policymakers, and community stakeholders who are committed to building a skilled and competitive workforce.

To register for the Workforce & Education Summit, please visit bit.ly/Workforce-Education-2025. Early registration is encouraged as space is limited

For more information, visit SanMarcosTexas.com or call the San Marcos Area Chamber at 512-393-5900. For media inquiries, please contact Chamber Communications and PR Manager Joanne Ortega at joanne@sanmarcostexas.com.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

[August 8, 2025] – The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the San Marcos Shining Stars Under 40 Awards (SSU40), which recognize exceptional young professionals under the age of 40 who are making significant contributions to their industries and the San Marcos community.

Nominations for this year’s awards opened on Aug. 7 and will be accepted through Sept. 5. Community members are encouraged to nominate individuals who exemplify leadership, innovation, and service across a wide range of sectors including business, education, nonprofit, public service and the arts.

Launched in 2011 in partnership with the San Marcos Daily Record, the SSU40 program highlights the impact of emerging leaders who are helping shape the future of the region. Past recipients represent a diverse group of professionals who continue to make a difference in the San Marcos area. A full list of previous honorees is available at www.SanMarcosTexas.com.

Nominees will be evaluated on their professional accomplishments, community involvement, and leadership potential. Winners will be announced in October and formally recognized during the Chamber’s Annual Dinner & Awards Gala on Nov. 13, 2025, at the San Marcos Conference Center at Embassy Suites.

As an organization dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment and vibrant community, the San Marcos Area Chamber recognizes the importance of supporting and encouraging emerging leaders. The SSU40 awards program exemplifies the Chamber’s commitment to nurturing talent and empowering the next generation of leaders.

“We are proud to shine a spotlight on the next generation of leaders in San Marcos,” said Page Michel, president and CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “These individuals are shaping the future of our region through innovation, service and dedication.”

The Chamber extends its appreciation to the 2025 sponsors of Shining Stars Under 40: Cude Engineers, Frost Bank, McNabb & Co. Real Estate Services, Texas Regional Bank, RiverCity Screenprinting & Embroidery, and San Marcos BBQ.

Nominations for the SSU40 can be submitted online at bit.ly/ShiningStars-2025. Employers are encouraged to nominate key employees for this award. Don’t miss this opportunity to recognize rising stars at your business! For additional information, contact Communications & PR Manager Joanne Ortega at joanne@sanmarcostexas.com or 512-393-5900.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

Founded in 1903, the mission of the Chamber is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s Vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

[August 8, 2025] The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the return of the “Back the Bobcats” Community Spirit Campaign, set to take place Aug. 24–30. Now in its third year, the campaign unites the San Marcos community in a spirited celebration of Texas State University, culminating in the Bobcats’ home opener football game on Saturday, Aug. 30.

The campaign encourages local businesses to show off their Bobcat pride by decorating their storefronts, windows, and interiors in maroon and gold. Decorations can begin mid-August, giving the city time to come alive with school spirit as students, alumni, and fans return for football season.

“We love seeing our business community come together to support Texas State University,” said Page Michel, president and CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “With the energy of the first home football game on August 30, we know this year’s spirit week will be even bigger than last year’s!”

Businesses that participate are invited to enter the Back the Bobcats Decorating Contest, which features four award categories:

• Best Exterior
• Best Interior
• Best Window Display
• First Timer’s Award

The “First Timer’s Award” is to encourage more businesses to participate and they won’t be competing with past years’ powerhouse winners! Winners will receive a $100 H-E-B gift card, TXST Bobcat swag, tickets to the home opener game with on-field recognition, and bragging rights as a leader in community pride.

To participate in the decorating contest, businesses are encouraged to sign up via the official registration form available on the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce website.

For more information and to join the Community Spirit Campaign, visit bit.ly/BackTheBobcats.

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About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.