Frederick County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Board of Directors for 2026-2027

On October 13, 2026, the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce proudly announced its Board of Directors for the 2026-2027 term, emphasizing a continued commitment to local business leadership and community development. Danny Severn, a partner at Warner Commercial, will maintain his position as Board Chair, guiding the board alongside Chamber staff as they devise and implement strategies aimed at advancing the Chamber's mission.

The newly structured Executive Committee also showcases accomplished professionals dedicated to enhancing business landscapes in Frederick County. Jennifer Milas from HBK CPAs will take on the role of Treasurer, with Cheryl Cioffi representing Frederick Health and Amanda Haddaway from HR Answerbox joining as key members. Alongside them are Sue Hough from Octavo Designs and Jeff Griffin from DCM Bioservices, each bringing unique insights and expertise to the table.

The Board of Directors now includes an impressive range of individuals, each contributing diverse perspectives from sectors like finance, healthcare, and real estate. Noteworthy members consist of Jon-Mikel Bailey from Xecunet, Mark Blacksten from ACNB Bank, and Dr. Philip Brown from Phoenix Mecano North America, among others. Their collective experience will lay the groundwork for fostering growth and innovation within the Chamber.

This year also marks the introduction of new Board members, which includes Chris Clemons from Woodsboro Bank, Dr. Debbie Ricker from Hood College, and Josh VerStandig from Moore Wealth. Their fresh ideas and energy promise to invigorate the board’s dynamic as they tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Recognizing the role of community engagement in effective leadership, Helen Propheter, President and CEO of the Chamber, shared, "Leadership is about serving, connecting and building a strong community." This vision aligns perfectly with the Chamber’s ongoing efforts to represent a broad spectrum of businesses in Frederick County, from small enterprises to large corporations.

Supporting the mission of the Chamber are Non-Voting board members who contribute their efforts in distinct areas. Cameron Harris from Purple Donut Studios and Justin Saltzman from VCRE represent committees focused on local engagement and leadership development. Their roles are crucial in fostering relationships that extend beyond traditional business boundaries, promoting collaboration among various community segments.

The Frederick County Chamber of Commerce stands as a platform for advocacy and connection, continuously striving to create an environment where businesses can thrive. Since its inception in 1912, the Chamber has evolved into a vital player in promoting economic prosperity in Frederick County, supporting initiatives that boost not only the business community but also the local population.

Looking forward, the board aims to leverage its combined expertise to navigate the evolving challenges in today's business environment. By focusing on collaboration, strategic planning, and community engagement, they will play an instrumental role in shaping the future of commerce within Frederick County. The commitment from each board member to lead with integrity and innovation sets a promising tone for the year ahead.

As they embark on this new term, the dedication of the Board of Directors indicates a robust foundation for the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, ready to champion local businesses and enhance community relations for years to come. The collaborative efforts of the Board reflect the spirit of Frederick County, where partnership and progress go hand in hand.