Staff & Board

Tim Allen, Chamber President & CEO, joined the Chamber staff in November 2011. Prior to becoming Chamber President in 2014, Tim served as the Chief Operating Officer. He is responsible for Economic Development for the Fort Smith MSA, overseeing Chamber staff and functions, and working with community leaders to improve the regional quality of place.

Tonya Sarlls, Vice President of Operations, joined the Chamber staff in October 2015.  She is responsible for leading and managing the daily operations of the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, including financial reporting, event and program management and membership and recruiting services.

Anita Brackin, Vice President of Workforce Development, joined the Chamber staff in June 2021. She is responsible for working with our strategic educational, community and industry partners to further develop and refine the region’s short and long-term workforce development and career and technical education strategy and vision.

Jennifer Neer, Senior Finance Administrator, joined the Chamber staff in December 2015.  She is responsible for the accounts payable and accounts receivable and maintaining financial information for the Chamber, affiliates and associated groups.

Hannah Cabe, Educational Programs Administrator, joined the Chamber staff in September 2021.  Hannah is responsible for overseeing the events and programs that are related to K-12 education.  Hannah also leads the Leadership Fort Smith and Junior Leadership Career Academy programs.

Lindsey Trantham, Senior Events Coordinator, joined our staff in September 2017.  Lindsey oversees the planning, coordination and execution of premier Chamber events including First Friday Breakfast, Annual Meeting, Jack White Legislative Golf Tournament, Healthcare Reception, Washington Fly-in and the Business/Career Expo.  Lindsey also serves as the liaison for our Healthcare Committee. 

Dawn Turner, Membership Engagement Administrator, Dawn Turner joined the Chamber staff in September 2018. Dawn helps with maintaining marketing and communication between members and the Chamber including maintaining the Chamber’s website and social media platforms. Dawn also creates and distributes the Chamber’s Monday Minders and Chamber Connection newsletter. In her role Dawn focuses on directly impacting the growth and retention of Chamber membership, while helping Chamber members grow their own businesses through engagement with the Chamber’s activities and training on how to best use their membership tools and resources.

Madi Cervantes, Administrative Assistant, Madi’s primary function is to support the coordination of the office activities and to act as a customer service representative for both internal and external customers.  Madi has been a part of the River Valley community since 2006. She graduated from Van Buren High School in 2015, then from the University of Oklahoma in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in film and media studies with a minor in social justice.