Frisco Chamber of Commerce president to retire

The Board of Directors of the Frisco Chamber of Commerce has formally accepted the departure of its esteemed President/CEO Tony Felker, set to take effect from Aug. 17, 2023. This date also commemorates Felker's remarkable 19-year tenure at the Frisco Chamber.

Felker takes immense pride in leaving a significantly positive impact on the organization.

“People say you should leave something better than when you found it, and I am very proud to have done just that,” said Felker in his letter.

“Working with an amazing team and Board of Directors over the years, we have grown financially in operations and reserves and achieved our Five-Star Accreditation. We have also evolved into an essential community partner and are a key member of ‘Team Frisco.’ Perhaps most importantly, we also now have the most talented team we have ever had, with the entire staff and board working together to move the organization forward for the betterment of the entire community.”

Felker's accomplishments during his leadership are numerous. He recognized nearly 500 Leadership Frisco graduates, established the Leadership Exchange Trip program, and initiated the Young Entrepreneurs Academy.

The academy has consistently fostered accomplished middle and high school business owners who perform at a national level in the Saunders Scholars Competition. Felker also played a key role in the initial stages of the Frisco Chamber of Commerce Foundation, a future 501(c)(3) extension to the current organization. Besides his local contributions, Felker has made a significant impact at a national level by serving in multiple industry leadership roles.

“The future of the Frisco Chamber is bright,” said Board Chair Ashley Miller in the release.

“Tony has built an amazing team that is responsible for so many accomplishments, including the implementation of the strategic plan, the onboarding of the Frisco Chamber Foundation, and many others. Please join me in thanking Tony for his 19 years of service that have uniquely positioned the Frisco Chamber of Commerce as one of the top chambers in the country. Our community is better because of him. The staff and Board look forward to continuing our unprecedented momentum as we connect, grow, lead, and serve the city of Frisco.”

In the interim, the Board has appointed Christal Howard, currently serving as the chamber’s chief operating officer, as Co-President/CEO. Additionally, the Board announced plans to initiate a search for a permanent replacement.

“I am a huge believer that each of the past Frisco Chamber leaders was the right person at the right time to lead and grow this organization,” Felker said. “From Karen King, who was the first part-time executive, to Audie Adkins, John Land, and then to my almost 15 of the 19 years as the President/CEO. I believe the present moment is opportune for the next individual to seize the reins and take this outstanding team and the organization to new heights.”

Credit: Dallas Metro News, Frisco Chamber of Commerce