Executive Leadership Conference 2025 Speakers
Jeremy Arthur, CCE, IOM
A fifth-generation Alabamian, Jeremy Arthur’s commitment to leadership and service to his community, state, and beyond is well documented. Currently, Jeremy serves as the executive director of the Government & Economic Development Institute at Auburn University. He serves as the chief administrative executive responsible for the total operations of the organization that provides guidance, training, professional development, leadership, community development, research, and civic engagement endeavors across the State of Alabama.
Jeremy began his career at the Economic Development Institute at Auburn University and then went on to serve as president of the Prattville (AL) Area Chamber of Commerce, where he led community development initiatives, economic development efforts, tourism plans, and many other programs. Most recent, he served as the president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama and represented all the local chambers of commerce across the state providing guidance, training, professional development, leadership, and advocacy.
The list of national, statewide, regional, and local organizations he has chaired or serves briefly includes his local hospital board, his local Rotary, numerous academic and advancement efforts at Auburn University, Voices for Alabama’s Children, Main Street Alabama, the Alabama Small Business Commission, the Ending Childhood Hunger in Alabama Task Force, Alabama Communities of Excellence and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Board of Trustees and Committee of 100. In 2021, Jeremy was the recipient of the Jamie Wallace Award, the highest award presented by the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama, in recognition of his service to the industry.
Jeremy is a two-time Auburn University graduate and is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Public Administration & Public Policy. Also, he holds the Certified Chamber of Commerce Executive (CCE) designation which is held by less than 4% of chamber executives nationally.
Personally, Jeremy enjoys Auburn Tiger football and men’s basketball, traveling the globe to learn about other cultures, exploring Alabama’s rich and diverse history and reading the works of his favorite author, Alabama-native Nelle Harper Lee.
Craig Turner
Craig W. Turner is the visionary founder and president of Momentum – The Business Growth Agency, Momentum for Chambers, and Momentum AI. Momentum, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024, excels at driving ROI for companies through their innovative approach to chamber of commerce memberships and sponsorships. Additionally, the agency offers top-tier consulting services, ambassador training, and comprehensive member benefit programs for chambers.
A trailblazer in the field of AI, Craig is a sought-after consultant, providing cutting-edge AI training and solutions to chambers and small businesses. His enthusiastic approach to AI has made him a prominent speaker on the subject, captivating audiences with eye-opening, but practical, education and insights – incorporating just enough fun and wow-factor to be compelling but not techy and intimidating.
When it comes to AI, Craig practices what he preaches, consistently creating tools and solutions for businesses (especially small business), chambers of commerce and not-for-profits. In early 2024, he launched a groundbreaking new AI platform for chambers to create a stronger relationship with their members by delivering them customized, AI-generated strategies.
Craig currently serves as interim executive director for the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce.
ACCS Innovation Center: Workforce Solutions Panel
Kailah Dozier is the Director of Marketing and Corporate Partnerships for the Alabama Community College System’s Innovation Center. She leads a dynamic team dedicated to elevating the Innovation Center’s brand, forging strategic partnerships, and bridging the gap between education, workforce training, and industry needs. In this role, Kailah cultivates relationships with state agencies and associations, ensuring local businesses connect with Skills for Success training opportunities at their nearest community college.
Before stepping into this role, Kailah played a pivotal part in community engagement, system development, and strategic advancement at the ACCS system office. She began her career in higher education within the four-year system, serving as an Athletic Academic Advisor and Admissions Counselor at Troy University. She holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Communication and Strategic Communication, respectively, from Troy University.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Kailah enjoys life with her husband, Tolver, and their spirited two-year-old daughter, Kate Louise.
Stay connected with Kailah and follow the journey of Skills for Success and the Innovation Center on social media @SkillsForSuccess.
Michael Barnette is the Dean of Workforce and Economic Development programs at Central Alabama Community College. He has over 38 years of extensive experience in management, workforce training, safety, manufacturing, and quality control.
Before joining CACC, Michael dedicated a decade to instructing students within Alabama's two-year college system. In that role, he emphasized academic excellence and hands-on, practical training, preparing students to enter the workforce successfully. He later served as Assistant Director of Career and Technical Education at the Alabama Community College System office, overseeing instruction, recruitment strategies, curriculum design, and the implementation of new programs across all 24 Alabama community colleges.
Before transitioning to academia, Michael held significant leadership roles in the manufacturing sector. He managed teams of over 40 employees, focusing on critical areas such as workplace safety, employee training and development, quality assurance, and daily production operations.
Michael holds a degree in General Business. He has served Central Alabama Community College with distinction for four years, consistently demonstrating a deep commitment to student success and workforce readiness. Michael and his wife have four children and enjoy spending time with their four grandchildren.
Linda Williams serves as the Workforce Development & Industry Program Coordinator with Central Alabama Community College. Linda’s expertise in budgeting, grant administration, and program coordination consistently advances workforce readiness, positively impacting students and employers throughout the Central Alabama community. Linda plays a critical role in developing and administering innovative workforce initiatives, including the successful Skills for Success courses, designed to equip students with industry recognized credentials. Linda has been with Central Alabama Community College for 22 years in different capacities, and is currently serving her 9thyear in Workforce Development. She holds an B.B.A., and an M.B.A. in Business Administration. Linda is a lifelong resident of Tallapoosa County, where she currently lives with her husband Ken. Linda and her husband have 2 sons and 4 grandchildren.
Houston Blackwood serves as the Alabama Community College System’s Innovation Center Workforce Director. A lifelong resident of Hartselle, AL, Houston understands the challenges and opportunities that exist in a small city. He has 19 years of experience with campus culture, curriculum and training initiatives as a teacher and administrator both from the K-12 sector and higher education, and he has developed and delivered non-credit training programs across Alabama for seven years. Houston strives to leverage life experiences into solutions for the communities around the State of Alabama. Houston and his wife Kyla reside on their family farm with their only son, Rowan.
Steve Robinson has spent fifty years in corporate America. During that time, he has served in senior leadership positions for various businesses, civic groups, and community organizations. Steve currently serves as the President and CEO of the Alexander City Chamber, Tallapoosa County Commissioner, Board Chair for Lake Martin Tallapoosa County Tourism, and other boards. Steve has been married for forty-four years, has three children and five grandchildren. Steve is an Auburn graduate.
A Volunteer's Perspective: What Your Volunteer Leadership Wants You To Know Panel
John Marshall was born and raised in Gilmer County in north Georgia, he was elected in 2022 as a Gilmer County Commissioner. A member of the First United Methodist Church in Ellijay, he currently serves on its Finance Committee. Previously, he was on the board of the Gilmer Chamber, as well as its chairman in 1989 and again in 2019. He was the president of the Ellijay Lions Club and was appointed to the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission Council by the Georgia Speaker of the House.
His wife of 41 years, Penelope, is his extraordinarily, phenomenally, and immensely better half. Together, they have been blessed with two adult sons, their lovely spouses, and five beautiful grandchildren.
Ben Harrison is the Director of Cullman Regional Airport, which is a General Aviation Airport that serves Cullman and the surrounding areas. He started his career in cycling where he spent five years with American Bicycle Group in Chattanooga, Tennessee. After moving back to Cullman, he accepted a job with Yutaka Technologies as their Purchasing Manager before a promotion to Human Resource and Administration Manager. Following his six years in the automotive industrial circle, he had the opportunity to fulfill a role in aviation. Ben joined the airport in 2012.
Ben is Immediate Past Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce and a member of Cullman Park and Recreation Foundation Board. He is a current Board member of the General Aviation Alliance of Alabama, and Vice Chair of the Aviation Council of Alabama. Ben serves as National Aviation Transportation Association (NATA) Airport Business Committee. He has been involved in school activities previously serving on the Cullman Swim Team, and Cullman High School Cross County boards. He is also honored to be a Board Member of the Wallace State Community College Future Foundation. He is a graduate of Leadership Cullman and Leadership Alabama Class 31.
Ben is a native of Cullman, Alabama and has a degree in Business Management. He is married to School board member Cheryl (Gable) Harrison and they have two children, Sophie and Cole. During his personal time, Ben enjoys mountain biking, wake surfing, and golfing. He is also a licensed pilot.
Lisa Miller is Energy Southeast’s Manager of External Affairs, she is responsible for the joint action agency’s strategic communications and marketing efforts, economic and community development initiatives in support of Energy Southeast’s 11 Members, as well as Energy Southeast’s governmental affairs activities.
Mrs. Miller joined Energy Southeast in February 2007 as Director of Communications. In 2008, she was promoted to Manager of Communications and Marketing. In 2020, she was named Manager of Communications and Economic Development. In 2024, Mrs. Miller was promoted to Manager of External Affairs.
Mrs. Miller also serves as Energy Southeast’s governmental affairs liaison. She works with Energy Southeast governmental affairs channels, and maintains and cultivates relationships with leaders in governments to represent Energy Southeast’s interest. She also maintains relationships with Energy Southeast Members’ governing bodies to support mutual interests.
She has over 35 years of communications, marketing, economic development and governmental affairs experience in the electric utility industry.
A native of Alexander City, AL, Mrs. Miller holds a B.A. degree in Public Relations/Journalism from Auburn University.
Mrs. Miller, and her husband, Mike, reside in Prattville.
Paige Hutto, IOM (Facilitator) a 20-year chamber veteran, has served as President/CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama since April 2021 where she advocates for, assists, and provides professional development and trainings for chamber leadership across the state. Prior to joining CCAA, Hutto served as President & CEO of the Gilmer County (GA) Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center until relocating back to her home state of Alabama in 2020. While in Georgia, she was a key stakeholder in establishing the framework for an economic development organization for Gilmer County, including a multi-jurisdictional development authority and a business incubator/shared space facility. Paige was also very active in developing a pro-business climate for redevelopment in the Downtown Ellijay area and establishing tourism as a key economic driver in her community. Her previous experience also includes service to the Eufaula Barbour (AL) Chamber of Commerce as Tourism Director.
Hutto is a proud alumna of Troy University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Management and her Master of Business Administration. She also received her Tourism Marketing Professional (TMP) designation from Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College, her Georgia Certified Chamber Executive (GCCE) and her Institute for Organization Management (IOM) through the US Chamber of Commerce.
She currently serves as Vice Chair on the Southeast Board of Regents for the Institute for Organization Management as well as on the IOM Curriculum committee.
Paige lives in Wetumpka with her husband Chris and two bonus sons Jacob & Jaxon.
Mitch Isaacs - Shafer Leadership Academy
Mitch Isaacs was named Shafer Leadership Academy’s Executive Director in May 2015. In this role, he worksclosely with the organization’s board of directors to fulfill the mission of the organization.
Mitch has over 20 years of leadership development experience. He graduated from Ball State University in 2002 with a double major in History and Political Science and a minor in Counseling Psychology. Mitch completed his master’s degree in student Affairs and Higher Education at Indiana State University. Mitch returned to Ball State in 2005 and spent the next 10 years working as a professional in Higher Education, including five years as the Director of the Excellence in Leadership program, and Coordinator of the Leadership Studies Minor.
Experience & Skillsets Include: 28+Years as President of a local chamber, Gallup Certified Clifton Strengths Coach, Certified John Maxwell Team Member, Team Building & Facilitation, Leadership Training and Management, Coaching & Consulting, Past Chair, 2021 US Chamber Southeast Institute, Past Chair, 2010-2011 GACCE, IOM Graduate Year 2000, Georgia Certified Chamber Executive Designation 2008 and one of the greatest honors, GACCE Executive of the Year Recipient 2015.
Mitch is an active member of the Muncie, Indiana community. Mitch has served as the president of the board of directors Country Village / Creekwood Neighborhood Association, Muncie Action Plan, and Indiana Leadership Association. He has also served on the boards for Motivate Our Minds, Muncie Rotary and the Muncie Civic Center Authority. Mitch is passionate about youth development, with previous roles as Project Leadership Mentor, a Big Brother with Big Brothers / Big Sisters of Delaware County, and a member of the Burris Laboratory School Advisory Council.
A thoughtful and empathetic leader, Mitch balances his professional life with co-parenting his two teenage sons, Charley and Wilson. Mitch is passionate about supporting those around him, whether it’s through his family, his team, or the broader community.
Beth Morrison, IOM
Meet Beth: a networking wizard with over 30 years of experience and nearly 25 years of Chamber expertise under her belt! She's the ultimate connector, creating genuine relationships and helping others do the same. Beth is a self-described social extrovert and introverted creative. A graduate of Covenant College and the Institute for Organizational Management, Beth’s got the knowledge and passion for building community.
One of her most creative ventures is One Degree Dalton, a community passion project that’s been thriving for 10 years. With a fun twist on the initials "ODD," Beth believes every community has its own unique story—and she's here to help tell it.
Oh, and did we mention? Beth is now an entrepreneur, launching her new business, The One Degree Collective—a consulting and connections firm that’s all about building authentic relationships and making marketing magic.
When she’s not innovating in the professional world, you can find Beth thrifting for treasures, globetrotting, or hanging out with her adorable 6-year-old granddaughter, Izzy. Life’s an adventure, and Beth believes in living it to the fullest!
Mike Jordan, Alabama Power - Area Manager, Southern Division
Mike Jordan is Alabama Power’s Area Manager for the Company’s Southern Division. In this role, he has direct or supervisory responsibilities for Alabama Power’s external activities in a 13-county region of south and central Alabama.
Jordan graduated from Samford University with degrees in history and political science. He received his Master’s of Public Administration from Troy University.
Prior to joining Alabama Power, Jordan served on the staff of Governor Fob James and as Public Information Officer for the Alabama House of Representatives. He began his career with Alabama Power in 2008 as the Company’s Legislative Affairs Manager. In this role, he helped craft energy policy at the state level.
He is active in his church and serves as teacher of 5th/6th grade Sunday School. Within the communities he helps to support, Jordan serves as a member of local economic and community development organizations in Butler, Chilton, Montgomery, and Perry Counties. He is also proud to serve on the boards of a number of not-for-profit boards and organizations.
He and his wife, Alissa, are the proud parents of three beautiful girls – Anna, Molly Kate, and Abby.
A View from the "New" Seats: "Unseasoned" Chamber Executives Panel
John-Mark Freeman is a dedicated leader and the President of the Greater Coosa Valley Chamber of Commerce, committed to fostering economic growth and community development. With a strong background in business leadership and strategic planning, he works to support local businesses, drive innovation, and create opportunities for sustainable success. John-Mark is passionate about building strong professional networks and advocating for policies that enhance economic vitality.
Joy Perry has been with the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce since 2008. She has worked in all areas of the chamber & tourism world. Joy started as the social media and events coordinator, moving to membership director and then becoming the Executive Director 2 years ago. Joy has lived in Cherokee County most of her life. She loves the people and is an advocate for small businesses.
Michelle Epling serves as President & CEO of the Madison Chamber of Commerce where she brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and professional volunteering. She also brings a diverse and wide range of experience from business development, corporate direct sales and sales coaching, two entrepreneurships, love of volunteering with major non-profits, and her love for the city of Madison. Through her own personal experiences, she can relate to large and small business owners and the challenges they face every day in running their businesses.
Michelle is a graduate of Auburn University where she earned her BS in Business Administration – Marketing. In her relatively brief 4-year career in the chamber industry, Michelle Epling helped guide her team to receive the Alabama Accredited Chamber of Commerce designation for the first time in their 31-year history.
Michelle was named Alabama Chamber Champion for 2024. Created in 2020, the Alabama Chamber Champion award recognizes an emerging leader with five or fewer years of professional service to the chamber industry. Michelle also believes in continuing her chamber professional development journey and has completed three out of four years of the Institute for Organization Management Training and will be graduating in June 2025. Michelle currently serves as a committee member since 2022 with ACCE for their Finance and Operations Advisory Council.
Michelle is a current member of the Women’s Economic Development Council, Gothic Guild, and her past volunteer experiences include the Huntsville Botanical Garden, Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater and Academy, Huntsville Ballet, and the Huntsville Area Moms of Multiples. Michelle has been nominated twice for her longtime volunteer efforts with the arts community in the cities of Huntsville and Madison as a nominee for the Katherine Lester Award through the Huntsville Ballet Association.
She and her family have been residents of Madison for more than 15 years. In her free time, she enjoys doing art projects with her twins, shopping at all our local retail stores, attending her twins’ Irish Dance competitions, going to the beach with her family, and sewing her own clothing and meal prepping!
Meredith Drennen (Facilitator) is the Vice President of Investor Relations at the Birmingham Business Alliance. In her role, she is responsible for all engagement activities, recruitment and retention strategies, fundraising, and over 210 events throughout the year. In 2024 she headed the BBA’s Leadership Exchange Trip, previously known as the B.I.G Trip, in which over 50 community leaders, executives, and elected officials visit peer communities to learn best practices.
Prior to her arrival at the BBA, Meredith served as Executive Director of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce for nearly ten years. She led the organization to stronger membership participation, the organization’s first Strategic Plan, Homewood Forward, and innovative economic development programs with public and private partnerships.
Born to Birmingham natives in Newport, Rhode Island, she lived in New England, Tampa, Florida; and Washington DC before relocating to Huntsville, Alabama in the mid-nineties.
Meredith graduated Phi Beta Kappa, magna cum laude from the University of Alabama with a degree in political science and stayed on to receive a master’s degree in political science with a quantitative focus on international relations, comparative politics as well as American politics.
She is a graduate of the US Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organization Management program which was designed to enhance individual performance, elevate professional standards, and recognize association, chamber of commerce, and other nonprofit professionals who demonstrate the knowledge essential to the practice of nonprofit management. She Serves on the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama’s Board, where she serves as Chairman of the Board. In 2023, she was named Chamber Professional of the Year by CCAA, was also honored by the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama and the Alabama Public Service Commission in 2018 with the Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service Award for serving the Chamber profession for over a decade. She has served on various boards and organizations, including the Rotaract Club of Birmingham, The Freshwater Land Trust, the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End ALZ, the Assistance league of Birmingham, the City of Homewood’s Beautification Board and their City Manager Study Committee.
Meredith Lives in Homewood with her husband, Alan Travis Drennen IV, her children, Alan Travis Drennen V and Elizabeth Anne, and their rescue dog, Patton.