WESLACO,
TX- The Rio Grande Valley Partnership Board of Directors are pleased to announce
that Linda McKenna, successful business and community leader, has been named the
new President and CEO of the Valley Chamber. This only made possible by the hard
work of the Search Committee.
"We couldn't be more excited about this decision,"
said Sergio Contreras Search Committee Chairman, "Linda has great leadership qualities
and governmental affairs experience that will enable her to increase visibility
to the region and be a tremendous force in legislative advocacy."
Linda
McKenna states, "My passion for the Rio Grande Valley with its distinctive opportunities
and challenges led me to apply for the position of President/CEO of the Rio Grande
Valley Partnership." She adds, "My interest in legislative advocacy and success
in my professional career made it my desire to share my unique blend of educational,
personal, and senior level executive experience."
Linda McKenna has a strong
background working on health care policy & advocacy, including involvement with
the Texas Medical Association political action committee and political campaigns.
Linda has been in leadership roles with many local board of directors including
the American Heart Association, Harlingen High School PTSA and the Cameron/Willacy
County Medical Society Alliance. She was appointed to the Governor's Commission
for Women by then Governor George W. Bush and was named Chairman her second term.
She is a graduate of Leadership Texas. In pursuit of a career in public service,
she returned to college attained a Bachelor's degree in Government and a Master
of Public Administration. McKenna is a former Senior Vice President with Valley
Baptist Health System and currently serves on the Texas State Technical College
Board of Regents. These were all invaluable experiences that make her an ideal
choice for such an important Partnership role.
Brad Bierstedt, Partnership
Chairman states, "Her tremendous background in working with different groups,
combined with her dedication to the region will add even more value to our members
of the RGV Partnership and the entire Rio Grande Valley."
Linda McKenna states,
"Bill Summers was a wonderful visionary and his legacy will live on for years
to come in our work here at the Partnership. I am honored the search committee
as well as the Board of Directors has placed its confidence in me and I am humbled
to serve in this distinguished position."
McKenna's first day with the Chamber
will be September 7th. In her new role as President and CEO, she will be working
closely with Board Directors to focus on helping frame strategies for Rio Grande
Valley Partnership, with a strong focus on increasing membership value and reviewing
key regional issues. Linda McKenna and her husband have been Valley natives for
over 28 years living in Harlingen and having raised two wonderful sons.
The
Rio Grande Valley Partnership is the region's leading advocate and resource for
businesses and fosters the relationships that advance a vibrant regional economy.
"One Region, One Voice"
