The South Lake Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual Ambassador Breakfast at the Wesley Center at Living Hope Church, celebrating the volunteers who serve as the welcoming faces and community connectors of the Chamber.
SLCC President Dave Colby opened the celebration by introducing Donna Kirtland, the Chamber’s 2026 Board Chair. Kirtland proudly described the vital role of a Chamber Ambassador noting, “Ambassadors are volunteers who support Chamber programs and events throughout the year. Their work is essential in helping the Chamber fulfill its mission of promoting a thriving business climate and supporting the well-being of its members”.
Ambassadors regularly attend Chamber Breakfasts, First Friday Chamber Connections, Ribbon Cuttings, Business After Hours, and Signature Events. Serving as the “eyes and ears” of the business community, they help keep Chamber leadership informed and engaged. As Kirtland noted, an Ambassador is often recognized as the friendly face in a blue jacket, welcoming members and guests to Chamber events.
Kirtland invited the Ambassadors in attendance to join her on stage and welcomed outgoing 2025 Ambassador Committee Chair Jo Lynn Nicholson of Metes & Bounds Title to introduce the team. Nicholson then called forward two leaders who exemplify commitment, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for the local business community: incoming 2026 Ambassadors Co-Chair Beth Merrick and Sandra Vela.
The 2026 Ambassadors recognized at the breakfast included:
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Amanda Hansen – Seacoast Bank
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Beth Merrick – Sunshine Book Co.
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Cathy Bateham – Affordable Health & Supplemental Insurance Solutions
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Daniela Martinez – Edward Jones
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Erin Faulkner – Sprinkler Repair Company
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Gayle Tomasini – Headquarter Honda
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Gerry Ash – Ash Travel (unable to attend)
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Jacquie Peterson – Splash Social Marketing
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Jan Holness-Wilson – The Touch 4 Health & Wellness
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Jim Young – Shannon Till State Farm Insurance
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Kathleen Holt – Mary Kay
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Keith Mullins – Bacchus Vino Etcetera
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Lynnea Strickler – Lake County Schools
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Regina Cruz-Morales – Keller Williams
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Renee Lowe – Roe Family Chiropractic
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Ryan Pikunis – First Southern Bank
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Sandra Vela – Serenity Spa & Wellness
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Sheri Spivey – CEMEX
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Sherrie Nemetz – Go Figure Accounting
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Teresa Kay – Fidelity Funding Mortgage Group
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Yolanda Green – CareerSource Central Florida
Shahanaz Rahaman, Member Relations Director for the South Lake Chamber of Commerce, announced the 2026 Lori Wuchevich Ambassador of the Year, Jan Holness-Wilson of The Touch 4 Health & Wellness.
Holness-Wilson has worked in the health and wellness field for more than 20 years, dedicating her career to helping others heal, move better, and feel their best. As a Florida Licensed Nail Technician, Facial Specialist (Esthetician), Massage Therapist, and Exercise Specialist, she brings a uniquely well-rounded approach to care.
Her professional background includes working alongside physical therapists, athletic trainers, and chiropractors, complemented by advanced training and a foundation in Exercise and Sports Science. Known for providing clinically based, rehabilitative treatments focused on pain relief, stress reduction, and improving range of motion and flexibility, Holness-Wilson continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those she serves throughout the South Lake community.
