Lenaire Ahlum
Founder, Executive Director – Susquehanna Valley Community Education Project

Lenaire would like to serve on the board because, “The Central PA Chamber has a vibrant connection to the member businesses that is attractive. I have participated in relevant and high-quality activities of the Central PA Chamber of Commerce that have benefited my organization. I want to support and do whatever I can to encourage and strengthen the CPACC!” She said her experience in management, networking, research and writing grants would be an asset.

Lenaire has both participated in and sponsored Annual Meetings, Legislative Events, Leadercast Live, Raising the Board and Breakfast Briefings.

She added she shares in the CPACC’s Vision and Mission statements and has a strong alignment with the community commitment.

Jeff Comitz
Director of Operations – Thermal Product Solutions (TPS)

Jeff would like to serve on the board “to help make an impact and aid in the growth and development of Central PA businesses. I enjoy interacting with other business leaders promoting networking and growth.” He said his communication and networking skills, experience in sales, engineering and manufacturing would be an asset.

Jeff has hosted two Inside Jobs Tours at Thermal Product Solutions, an off-site Breakfast Briefing and sponsored a Legislative Breakfast.

He added he has strong personal beliefs regarding membership, the economy and community commitment. He enjoys promoting Thermal Product Solutions and would be honored at the opportunity to do the same for other businesses in the region.

Noelle Long
Director, Export Development – SEDA-Council of Governments

Noel would like to serve on the board because, “I’m ready to serve the business community in a different capacity beyond my regular daily duties of providing export assistance to regional client companies.” She said she could bring a global mindset, creativity, strategy and strong regional relationships to the table.

She is Central PA born and raised and is a firm believer in a sense of community.  “For me, community is the businesses, the people, and tying all that together to make the area an even better place to live.”

Sheri Marshall
Financial Advisor – Edward Jones

Sheri would like to serve on the board, “to continue to serve in my community and give back.  I have been a member for a short time, however, I love what the Central PA Chamber does in and for our community. I’d love to be a part of that on a higher level.” She said her 23 years of business experience, plus involvement in diversity, equality and inclusion would be an asset.

Sheri has been a Leadercast Live sponsor, B&E Golf Tournament sponsor and volunteer, as well as an Annual Meeting attendee and sponsor.

She added she has a heart for service and giving back.  “I am proud of where I live and want to be a part of continued growth and success in our area.”

Ashley Parrish (2^nd term)
VP/Financial Solutions Center Manager – First Commonwealth Bank

Ashley would like to serve on the board for a second term because, “I believe in the Central PA Chamber’s mission, and it aligns well with our company’s mission, ‘To improve the financial lives of our neighbors and their businesses.’ I see the impact of the CPACC has had just over the last three years helping so many businesses in our region.” She said her experience in banking, positive forward thinking, commitment and responsiveness is an asset.

Ashley has served as Board treasurer in 2023. She also volunteered at many events, attended ribbon cuttings, Breakfast Briefings, Legislative Events and many more functions and activities. In addition, she is a member of The President’s Club.

She said she has always had a passion for helping others, making a positive impact and supporting local business owners.

Michael Porter
Training Specialist – Pennsylvania College of Technology Workforce Development

Michael would like to serve on the board because, “I believe in their mission and vision.  I know the value of a Chamber membership to both small and large businesses. I believe that the Central PA Chamber helps businesses to grown and become more successful.” He said his skills in fundraising, grant writing, marketing, outreach and advocacy would be an asset.

Michael has sponsored Legislative Events, Seminar & Training Series classes, and also attended Annual Meetings, B&E Golf Tournaments, Breakfast Briefings, Ribbon Cuttings and Inside Jobs Tours.

Stephen Shope
Program Relationships Manager – Pennsylvania Treasury

Stephen would like to serve on the board because, “I am passionate about business, economic and community development. PA Treasury encourages management to be in volved in community and non-profit organizations.” In addition, he said his experience with organizational, operational and staff development, public relations and grant writing would be an asset.

Stephen is a newer member of the Central PA Chamber and has taken the opportunity to tour the facility and meet the staff. He’s also inquired about using meeting space to conduct seminars.

He said he has “a healthy respect for the stakeholders in the business and non-profit communities and maintains a personal and professional commitment to helping them achieve scalable and sustainable growth.”

Paul Smith
Owner – Sync Solutions LLC

Paul would like to serve on the board because, “I want to contribute to a forward-thinking organization that puts its members first. My experience as a creative technologist will be invaluable to the Chamber’s operations.  I have significant ties to the region and am well respected.” He said his skills in creative problem solving and technology would be an asset.

He has attended Breakfast Briefings and ribbon cuttings, hosted an Inside Jobs Tour, presented during a 1 Million Cups event at the Chamber, and is a member of the Public Relations Committee and The President’s Club.

He said he is “a proponent of clear communication, creative thinking, task-oriented goals and accomplishing those goals through planning and cooperation.”