Courtney recently returned to Jefferson County after living and working abroad and now serves as Director of Visitor Engagement at Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, where she blends creative marketing, collaboration, and a passion for culture to enhance community experiences. She studied Public Relations and Marketing at SIU Carbondale and has worked across both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, shaping her adaptable leadership style. Courtney is active at St. Mary Catholic Church and with the Mt. Vernon West Rotary Club. Through the Jefferson County Chamber Leadership Academy, she hopes to strengthen her strategic skills, grow as a leader, and make a meaningful impact in her community.

Clint Holkenbrink is the Marketing & Residential Sales Supervisor at Wabash Communications CO-OP, where he has worked for seven years leading marketing strategy, customer growth, and residential fiber-optic expansion. He is passionate about strengthening rural communities through reliable high-speed broadband and meaningful outreach. Clint holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from McKendree University and is also Co-Owner of Fat Dad’s Ice Cream Shop in Louisville, Illinois. He actively serves on the Clay County CEO Program Board, NTCA Marketing Committee, Smart Rural Advisory Council, and as an Effingham County Chamber Ambassador, while continuing to grow his leadership and community impact.

Leslie Baum has proudly served the Mount Vernon community for decades through both her professional career and volunteer leadership. She has worked with State Farm/Tony Wielt for 34 years, helping individuals and families better understand and protect their insurance needs. Leslie currently serves as Vice President of Special Events for the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce and has held leadership roles with the Mount Vernon Junior Women’s Club and CASA of Jefferson County. A devoted wife, mom, and “Lollie” to her grandson, she enjoys camping and boating at Rend Lake. Leslie believes strong communities are built through service, connection, and leadership.

Allison Frost is a Family Nurse Practitioner with full practice authority and the owner of Frost Aesthetics, where she combines clinical expertise with a passion for helping others feel confident and cared for. She is actively involved in her community, volunteering at St. Mary’s School and serving as a Chamber Ambassador. A devoted wife, mom of two sons, dog mom to a German Shepherd, and foster parent, Allison values compassion and advocacy. Outside of work, she enjoys learning new skills — including studying the cello — along with spending time with family, visiting wineries, and boating with loved ones.

Whitney Hodge serves as the Executive Director of CASA of Jefferson County, a role she has held for three years after working with the organization for a total of six years. Her diverse career background includes restaurant management, insurance, financial services, and nonprofit leadership, shaping her adaptable and relationship-focused leadership style. Whitney is actively involved in the community as Board President of Jefferson County Toys for Kids, a board member of the Mount Vernon Noon Rotary Club, and a volunteer at Central Christian Church. A devoted wife, mom, and grandmother, she is passionate about serving children and strengthening her leadership through the Community Leadership Academy.

Cherrish McCoy has worked in banking since 2008 and began processing commercial and mortgage loans for Banterra in 2011 before becoming a Commercial Loan Officer in 2016. She is passionate about building strong relationships with customers and helping make the lending process clear, comfortable, and stress-free. Born in Milwaukee and raised in Southern Illinois, Cherrish lives in Benton with her husband, Jonathan, and their two children. She is actively involved in the community as a former Marion Lions Club officer, Jefferson County CEO mentor, and Chamber member. Outside of work, she enjoys time with family, church, and supporting local initiatives.