AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives (TCCE) successfully hosted the 2026 Center for Chamber of Commerce Excellence (CCCE), bringing together more than 70 chamber professionals from across Texas for three days of intensive professional development, peer learning, and leadership training at Texas A&M University.

“Local chambers of commerce are the lifeblood of our Texas communities and play a critical role in keeping our economy strong,” said Chelsie Kramer, Executive Director of TCCE. “It is essential that chamber professionals have the opportunity to sharpen their skills and learn from their peers so they are prepared to support business growth and resilience in their regions. It was incredible to see these leaders putting in the work to serve their communities with the highest level of professionalism. It is a testament to their passion and dedication.”

Delivered in partnership with Texas A&M University Continuing and Professional Education, CCCE is TCCE’s premier professional development program, designed to strengthen the leadership, operational excellence, and long-term impact of chamber professionals across the state.

A highlight of the week was the graduation ceremony at the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, where Year 3 participants earned their Advanced Chamber Management (ACM) certification, representing a strong and growing pipeline of chamber leadership across Texas.

2026 Advanced Chamber Management (ACM) Graduates:

Sara Blain, ACM, Cuero Chamber of Commerce
Jason Brandolini, ACM, Huntsville Walker County Chamber of Commerce
Catherine Camp, ACM, Longview Chamber of Commerce
Desirae Cavender, ACM, Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce
Tim Culp, ACM, Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce
Renee Earls, ACM, IOM, Odessa Chamber of Commerce
Penni Goodpasture, ACM, McKinney Chamber of Commerce
Christi Hernandez, ACM, Royse City Chamber of Commerce
Ray Hernandez, ACM, Partnership Lake Houston
Seth Hobbs, ACM, Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce
Megan Kendrick, ACM, Bellville Chamber of Commerce
Mark Linabury, ACM, Greater East Montgomery County Chamber
Shontel Mays, ACM, IOM, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce
Amme O'Grady, ACM, Weatherford Chamber of Commerce
Gigi Peacock, ACM, Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce
Jamie Rankin, ACM, Washington County Chamber of Commerce
Gina Spagnola, ACM, IOM, Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce
Melissa Toon, ACM, Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

“The Center of Chamber of Commerce Excellence is designed to equip Chamber professionals with the knowledge, credibility, and confidence needed at every stage of their career,” said Cindy DeWease, IOM, Chief Executive Officer of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and CCCE Committee Chair. “Through practical, real-world tools, the program strengthens Chamber professionals, their organizations, and the communities they serve. To the graduates earning their ACM, congratulations. This milestone reflects your dedication to professional excellence and your commitment to the Chamber industry.”

“This year's Center for Chamber of Commerce Excellence was remarkable,” said Janice Meyer, Director of Continuing and Professional Education at Texas A&M University. “During their time on campus, chamber executives had the opportunity to engage with our faculty and deepen their understanding of the pressing issues they face in their industry and community. Texas A&M University Continuing and Professional Education is proud to serve as the campus host for CCCE and congratulates this year's graduates.”

Chamber professionals serve on the front lines of their communities, connecting business, education, and local leadership. Programs like CCCE ensure these leaders are equipped with the tools and networks needed to meet the evolving demands of Texas’ economy and workforce.

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About the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives (TCCE)

The Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives is the professional society of chamber of commerce executives, staff, and affiliated members in the state of Texas. TCCE provides professional education, resources, consulting, idea exchange, and connection to a community of like-minded professionals committed to excellence in the chamber industry and the success of the communities they serve.

About the Center for Chamber of Commerce Excellence (CCCE)

The Center for Chamber of Commerce Excellence (CCCE) is a three-year "institute-styled" professional education program that provides instruction in fundamentals and advanced topics in chamber management. Participants earn the Advanced Chamber Management Certificate and are prepared to meet the challenges of the chamber industry. CCCE is a collaborative education consortium of Oklahoma and Texas. The program is accredited in partnership with Texas A&M University.