Don DePerro, President and CEO of the Columbus Chamber, previously served as president and publisher of Columbus Business First where he enjoyed a newspaper career that spanned over 30 years. He has been named the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Media Advocate of the Year for the state of Florida and has received six American City Eagle Awards for Excellence – the highest honor awarded to American City associates – as both an editor and publisher. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Don remains heavily involved in countless community initiatives. Don and his wife Lia have three children, including one Buckeye, and live in Dublin, Ohio.

Kelly Fuller loves to help people discover and develop their gifts, and as the Senior Vice President of the Columbus Chamber Foundation, she gets to do just that. Her entire career has existed in the workforce development space, beginning at Discover Card in 1986. Now with the Chamber, Kelly works to serve the workforce and economic development needs of its membership and the greater Columbus community.

Kelly is a graduate of Miami University and Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Outside of the office, she is an avid runner, a published poet, and a mother to her two children. No matter where you might run into Kelly, one thing is certain; she is dedicated to supporting your business to find candidates who will make a difference for your bottom line.

Dez has a background in a wide range of public policy issues, an insider’s perspective of the legislative process, and contacts throughout Ohio’s Capital Square. An alumnus of the Ohio General Assembly, he leads the government relations efforts for the Columbus Chamber of Commerce and provides members with practical guidance and constructive analysis related to important legislative issues and advocates on their behalf to legislators, committees, and other interested stakeholders. An Akron native, Dez is a graduate of Kent State University and the University of Dayton

As you would expect with any CPA, Kelly is whiz on the 10-key and can calculate finances faster than anybody in the Midwest.  Know that you will never catch her cooking the books, but you might catch her cooking up a storm in the kitchen. With all her amazing math skills, she's also figured out the perfect ratio of ingredients to make an award-winning banana pudding. Just ask anybody in the office who has challenged her during our annual bake-off that we hold each year for our United Way Fundraiser. Kelly graduated from Wright State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Finance. She also holds a Master's degree in Accounting and Financial Management from Keller Graduate School of DeVry in addition to being a CPA.

Catrena Cannon is a distinguished Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) leader, currently serving as the Vice President of Diversity, Culture, and Inclusion with the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. Catrena brings with her rich expertise, spanning human resources, training, recruitment, and program development. Previously, as a Workforce Diversity Manager within the City of Columbus Mayor’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Catrena played a pivotal role in Mayor Andrew Ginther’s equity agenda by strategically focusing on enhancing people, processes, and city performance.

Catrena's professional journey is marked by her dedication, professionalism, and profound passion for advancing diversity and inclusion efforts. Her ability to cultivate meaningful partnerships and engage diverse stakeholders has allowed her to be more impactful, driving broader community engagement and ensuring equitable practices across the city. With her extensive experience and commitment to excellence, Catrena Cannon continues to be a catalyst for positive change, making invaluable contributions to the growth and success of DEI initiatives within the Columbus region. 

Born in Cincinnati and a transplant to the Columbus Region, Hope has a great passion for Ohio businesses and the community. As an Otterbein University graduate, Hope brings over 25 years of strategic and creative marketing experience to her Vice President of Marketing & Communications role at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. As an accomplished leader, marketer, and researcher providing data-driven solutions, she has been recognized for dedicated leadership, creativity, and solution implementation. Before joining the Chamber, Hope was the Sr. Director of Sales Marketing and Research for Gannett | USA Today | Dispatch Media Group for nearly ten years.

Expanding upon her commitment to the Central Ohio community, Hope also serves on the Board of Trustees for the United Way of Central Ohio and as Secretary on the Board for the Circle Area Humane Society.

Hope lives in Grove City with her husband and best friend, Jason. She has two adult daughters, a son-in-law, and five dogs (yes, FIVE!). In her free time, she enjoys hiking, traveling, attending the theater, and volunteering.

As Vice President of Membership, Lorie Holt uses her experiences from prior roles in non-profit leadership, where she specialized in areas like organizational growth strategies, account management and brand development, to guide the Chamber’s membership and retention efforts. Lorie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from The Ohio State University. A Columbus native, Lorie enjoys spending her weekend mornings enjoying a stroll through the park with her husband, Jared, and their son, Oliver and their daughter, Annie.

Tim McKelly knows Columbus and he knows it well. As a resident of the Capital City for his entire adult life and with over 25 years of experience in Central Ohio’s sales and marketing field, Tim is the ideal resource for local businesses in the business development sector. When he’s not helping Chamber members increase their visibility, you can find Tim traveling the globe, from New Zealand to Chile and beyond. In fact, Tim helped to organize and lead three photographic safaris to East Africa. An expert multi-tasker and facilitator of connections, you can count on Tim to use his diverse skill set to help your business thrive.

Christine has always been a natural-born connector whether it was for work or personal. This “talent” began for Christine back when she was in high school and continued to follow her through her adventures and journey’s in her hometown of Bloomington, IN, Arizona, California, back to Indiana, and on to OHIO where she landed in 1991. When you meet and talk with Christine, she is more than likely already thinking about how she can connect you with someone else she knows!

Christine lives in Groveport with her husband, two youngest children, cat and dog. She and her husband have three older children who reside on their own and growing their own families. Christine has run a community non-profit for 15 years that supports families in crisis with rent, utilities, car repairs, and medical needs.

Mallory Roth hails from Vermilion, Ohio, "A small town on a Great Lake," and holds a B.A. from Wittenberg University in political science. After a short stint as a nanny in Charleston, SC, Mallory made her way to Columbus.  Previously, she worked closely with development, annual fundraising and member engagement. Mallory has experience coordinating and executing annual giving campaigns and membership drives using social media, direct mail and stewardship.  She also has experience with volunteer management and the development of goals-driven strategies to increase awareness of the organization among constituents and the community. Mallory has first-hand experience with small business, as she grew up living in a Bed & Breakfast owned by her parents. When Mallory is not in the office, she enjoys cooking, traveling and relaxing on Lake Erie. She is an avid visitor of Local Cantina on Tuesdays and never passes up a chance to enjoy breakfast at DK Diner.

As Director of Development, Nick connects the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s programs with local leaders passionate about helping our neighbors achieve economic stability. A lifelong advocate for charitable causes, Nick is well experienced in developing the resources needed to make a difference. He also personally knows how small business can be a powerful tool to change someone’s life. Nick grew up steeped in the mentality that ‘it takes a village,’ and feels honored to help build a more inclusive economy with the Chamber. 

Originally from Dayton, Nick relocated to Columbus in 2016 after earning a degree in International Relations from NYU and believes he’s found his forever home. He lives in Hilliard with his husband, Andrew, three charismatic cats, and is always ready to set out for a new adventure. 

Kristin is a Cincinnati native with a background of banking and community engagement. She excels as a connector and bridge builder, fostering meaningful relationships. She holds a B.S. in Non-Profit & Community Studies with a minor in Commerce from Miami University. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with loved ones and exploring Columbus and all it has to offer.

Abiona (Ah-bee-o-nah) is a Nigerian name meaning: child born during a journey. Very befitting for a savvy business professional who boldly embraces the challenges and exciting adventures that life brings! Abiona joins the Columbus Chamber with over 20 years of comprehensive customer service experience. As Program Coordinator, she is highly skilled in the development and implementation of policies and procedures in relation to daily operations. Abi garners a 15+ year proven track record in small business management and growth, coupled with advanced capabilities in training, coaching and operational logistics.

While born and raised a Buckeye, Abi roots for the Bearcats as a University of Cincinnati alumnus with a Bachelors in Marketing and Management and is a certified paralegal from Capital University Law School.  A wife and active mother of 3, she enjoys attending high school and collegiate sports, cycling, and traveling. Like a true capital city native, Abi is a foodie and enjoys trying a variety of cuisine at restaurants, diners and dives - especially dessert!

Born in Mexico and raised in Athens, Ohio, Tania Ulloa-Olavarrieta brings over 16 years of experience as a Brand Consultant and Strategist to the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. As the founder of Tarimella Design, LLC, a female-owned marketing and branding firm, she embodies the American Dream. With a BA in International Relations, a BFA in Graphic Design & Advertising, and a BFA in Industrial Design, Tania leverages her expertise to provide the tools and strategies necessary for the greater Columbus community to realize their American Dream in her role as a foreign-born business representative.

Tania is passionate about soccer, travel, international cuisine, and diverse cultures. If you need more information on Columbus club soccer, she has a wealth of knowledge as her four kids actively play. 

Kayleigh was raised in a very small town in eastern Ohio and moved to Columbus after graduating from Muskingum University with a B.A in History and Communication. After working in the events realm for several years, and after graduating with her MEd, she returned to Columbus to accept a role with the City of Gahanna and Gahanna CVB where she spent 4 years planning large community events and outdoor initiatives. She is excited to work with the Columbus Chamber of Commerce and help execute the wonderful events and educational sessions. In her free time, Kayleigh enjoys going to the local professional sports matches/games. She also spends time finding the best free live music sessions and festivals to attend during the weekends.

Natalie Zimmerman spent the last 4 years of her career specializing in digital marketing, social media, and print marketing. Natalie has a strong connection to workforce development and business connection initiatives. She strives to empower collaboration between workers and employers in the Columbus Metro Area.  

Although born in Jacksonville, Florida, Natalie has spent most of her life in Columbus, Ohio. In her spare time, Natalie can be found trying new recipes, exploring the central Ohio area, volunteering, or spending time with her son, fiancé, and dogs. 

Becca Shull was born and raised in North Andover Massachusetts, and moved to Columbus after graduating from Ohio Wesleyan University. Since moving to Ohio Becca has learned to be an avid Ohio State fan.  With her previous experience with small businesses, she is excited to help support small businesses meet their goals. When Becca is not in the office she is trying new restaurants in Columbus, spending time with her dog Chuck, or hanging out with family.

Nick was born and raised in the far east side of Columbus and after graduating college moved to Victorian Village like a true city dweller. He grew up going to countless CBJ games with his dad and is now an avid fan.

He graduated from Wittenberg University with a double major in Communication and Sports Management. He spent the last 3 years in the healthcare industry where he would help people navigate the complex healthcare system. In his free time, you can find him around town trying all the coffee shops you can think of, being outside, or spending way too long in the Trader Joe's frozen food section.

He is excited to connect with you and make sure that you are getting the most out of your membership with the Columbus Chamber, email him today! (bonus points if you include a picture of your dog)

Laura Boggs (goes by LJ) is a Cincinnati native. She spent over 5 years working in corporate America doing recruiting, account management, and human resources for IT professionals and Senior Living Health care executives. She then worked as a veterinary assistant exploring her love for animals. LJ has a passion for building relationships, customer service, and helping the Columbus Business Community thrive.

LJ graduated from Wittenberg University, Cum Laude, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management and Sociology. She was a college field hockey goalie, a member of Gamma Phi Beta, and studied abroad in Germany, visiting 11 countries and 37 cities!

Growing up in Cincinnati, she attended all home Xavier Men’s Basketball games and is an avid Buckeye, CBJ, and Fury fan. LJ and her husband Joey have lived in Columbus for over 7 years and have a golden retriever named Rambo. She enjoys the outdoors, exploring new restaurants and breweries, going to the movies, family time playing euchre, and traveling.

Sydnie grew up in a small town in northwest Ohio (Delphos), venturing down to Columbus to pursue her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from the Ohio State University, where she has been for the past four years. She is excited to bring what she has learned to help the business community of Columbus!

Outside of the workplace, you can find Sydnie curled up with a good book, out on a run, taste-testing brussel sprouts from new restaurants, watching PGA Tour events, and cheering on the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the Cleveland Browns - and sometimes the Buckeyes!

Holly Gallucci brings more than 15 years of experience with her to the Columbus Chamber as a business-to-business Advertising Account Executive with Columbus Monthly magazine and The Columbus Dispatch. Her familiarity and understanding of central Ohio businesses are most helpful in her role as a Business Development Representative, finding solutions for your company’s needs.

As a graduate of Worthington Kilbourne High School and The Ohio State University, Holly is a true Buckeye with her eye on making our Columbus area partners become even more successful!

When pursuing other interests, Holly is busy being a wife and mom of one daughter, plus two energetic kittens! She also enjoys volunteering at her child’s school, jogging & exercising, socializing with friends, and vacationing in Florida.

Nate McBride was born & raised in Columbus and is passionate for all the sports teams that call Columbus home. While earning his degree at Columbus State, Nate worked his way through school serving tables & bartending for Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. After school he worked in business development roles for a few local small businesses in the food & beverage, staffing & recruiting, and technology hardware industries. This previous experience gave Nate a true understanding of small business needs and struggles, which brought him to the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. With his radiant positivity, hunter mentality, and competitive drive Nate hopes to be a champion for the Central Ohio business community. Outside of work, Nate co-hosts a couple of sports podcasts. He also enjoys golfing, snowboarding, taking in the Columbus bar & restaurant scene, and spending time with his friends and family.

Will Thieman grew up in Upper Arlington, OH and is passionate to see Central Ohio grow and thrive.  Will graduated from Ohio Wesleyan Cum Laude, and was captain of the tennis team his senior year.  After graduating college, Will entered the real estate world: investing and managing residential real estate and representing buyers and sellers of commercial properties.  During his tenure in commercial real estate, Will strategized with many business owners, and gained a wealth of experience.  He is excited to work with businesses in Central Ohio and help them grow.

While Will is not working at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, he is coaching, writing or traveling.  Will coaches high school tennis, and is the girls coach at Olentangy Liberty and boys coach at Upper Arlington.  Will is the published author of a historical fiction book called Come Back Home, and hopes to publish a few more books.  When he’s not writing or coaching, Will loves to travel.  He’s been to 12 countries and hopes to visit a dozen more!

We could tell you that Laura Kenyon has been with the Columbus Chamber for 17 years and does everything from accounting to operations to database management. But what you really need to know is that she's got a fantastic sense of humor, wins our office chili cook-off every year, is always upbeat, and usually has some pretty amazing candy in her candy dish.  Laura is to the Chamber as Norm is to Cheers. Everybody knows her name and she is a much-appreciated fixture here. Before coming to the Chamber, Laura worked for 13 years at the law firm of Schwartz, Ramirez, Kelm and Warren as Office Services Manager.

Marlene Donaldson is the Executive Assistant to the President and CEO at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce.  She is an accomplished administrative professional who leads with a 'servant's heart'. Marlene provides high-level, strategic, and collaborative support to the CEO and leadership team.  She brings to the Chamber her positive, can-do attitude and efficiency in project management. She thrives in a fast-paced environment, and her relationship-building skills have proven to build sincere connections resulting in loyal support.

Marlene is a proud graduate of The Ohio State University and a lifelong resident of Central Ohio. She connects to her community through volunteering and coordinating the fundraising initiatives of: A Special Wish Foundation, Inc., the Salvation Army of Central Ohio, The James Cancer Hospital, and Solove Research Institute. Marlene received the National Board of Governors Award from A Special Wish Foundation, Inc. in recognition of her service benefitting children with life-threatening illnesses.

In her spare time, Marlene enjoys traveling, cycling, and spending time with family and friends. 

Kelly Douglas is no stranger to the accounting industry. She brings 22 years of experience to the Chamber and works diligently as its Accounting Clerk to ensure finances are always in order. When she’s not at the Chamber, Kelly enjoys spending time with her son. Their favorite activities include watching movies and playing games - the card game 'War' is their favorite! She enjoys reading, cooking and is a self-proclaimed sucker for reality TV. Kelly is new to Columbus having moved from Mansfield Ohio and she is already in love with her new home!

Tracy serves as the front line connection to our members; we like to think of her as our Director of First and Last Impressions.  Her warm smile and sweet demeanor make her the perfect person for the job.  She truly cares about each and every member just like she would her own family--and as a mother of four grown boys and grandmother to 12, you know you're in the right hands. When she's not spending time with her family, Tracy explores the healing benefits of essential oils. Before the Columbus Chamber, Tracy was the Day Treatment School Secretary at Rosemont where she served in many positions during her ten year stay assisting children and families in need.