Louisa County Chamber of Commerce and Louisa Forward Foundation Announce FY25–26 Boards of Directors
LOUISA, VA — The Louisa County Chamber of Commerce and its nonprofit partner, the Louisa Forward Foundation, are proud to announce their respective Boards of Directors for Fiscal Year 2025–2026. These dedicated leaders represent a diverse array of industries and expertise, united by their commitment to shaping the future of Louisa County through business, workforce, and community development.
The newly elected Boards will be officially installed during the Chamber’s Annual Meeting & Businessperson of the Year Awards on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Spring Creek Golf Club. Their term of service will begin July 1, 2025.
Chamber Board Executive Committee
- Melanie Baker, Chair
General Manager, Shenandoah Crossings Resort - Dr. Scott Jefferies, Vice Chair
Vice President for Finance & Administrative Services, Piedmont Virginia Community College - Jason Devillier, Treasurer
Executive Director, Charlottesville Albemarle Airport Authority - Casey Hollins, Secretary
Managing Director, Communications & Public Relations, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative
Newly Appointed Board Members
- Lee Downey, Director of Secondary Education, Louisa County Public Schools
With decades of educational leadership, Lee brings a strong background in organizational development, youth advocacy, and public service. - Laura Watts, Realtor, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty
A seasoned real estate professional and active business leader, Laura currently serves as President of the Louisa Leadshare Group and is dedicated to promoting responsible growth and collaboration in the community.
Returning Directors
- Sarah Marshall, Government Affairs & Communications, Dominion Energy
- Philip Gould, Market President, Blue Ridge Bank
- Nate Wash, Owner, Haymaker Auto Repair
A Message from the Board Chair
“As Chair, I’m excited to work alongside this exceptional group of leaders to build on the momentum we've created and continue advancing opportunities for local businesses and residents,” said Melanie Baker, Board Chair FY26. “In the year ahead, we’ll focus on expanding workforce development partnerships, amplifying member engagement, and fostering inclusive leadership that reflects the vibrant diversity of Louisa County.”
Louisa Forward Foundation Board of Directors (FY26)
The Louisa Forward Foundation, the 501(c)(3) charitable arm of the Chamber, shares the same Executive Committee and at large directors. This year's appointments include:
- Kaitlyn King, Branch Manager, United Bank
Kaitlyn is a passionate advocate for community banking and economic development. Her volunteer leadership includes service with the Fluvanna Louisa Housing Foundation and support for several local events and nonprofits. She brings energy and commitment to strengthening community resources and financial literacy in the region.
The Foundation Board guides initiatives that support workforce training, youth development, educational partnerships, leadership programs, nonprofit capacity-building, and revitalization of the Town of Louisa Main St. Initiative.
“Our Boards are truly aligned in their shared vision to uplift Louisa County through strategic collaboration and meaningful investment in our people, businesses, and community assets,” said Tracy Hale Clark, Executive Director of both the Chamber and Foundation. “With this strong leadership team in place, we’re well-positioned to drive lasting impact across the region.”
For more information on the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce and the Louisa Forward Foundation, visit www.LouisaChamber.org.
About the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber is a member-driven organization that promotes business, strengthens economic and community development, and serves as a catalyst for improving the overall quality of life in Louisa County and the region.
About the Louisa Forward Foundation
The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports charitable, educational, and workforce development programs that complement the mission of the Chamber and foster long-term prosperity for Louisa County.