The Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors are a group of professional volunteers from local businesses and various backgronds that serve as the public relations arm of the Chamber, aiding in welcoming new businesses to the area and new members. They can be recognized by their green jackets which symbolize prosperity, something they wish for every business in the community.

Ambassadors are highly visible by welcoming new members, making goodwill calls, assisting with ribbon cuttings, ground breakings, leading business of the week and other member events and Chamber functions throughout the year.

To serve as goodwill ambassadors for the Chamber to the community at-large with the highest degree of professionalism, knowledge and integrity. Also promote the development of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber by assisting with its events.

Visibility - You and your company will be visible at Chamber related functions and eligible for the Ambassador of the Year Award presented at the Chamber Annual Meeting.

Leadership - Build and advance effective, relevant, and professional programs and networking opportunities for Ambassador Members.

Ambassador of the Year was awarded to the Chamber Ambassador who volunteered the most time throughout 2012 providing invaluable support on the Chamber’s behalf. Joan Wilkinson with Mobile Notary Services received this year’s honor after attending and assisting with more than 90 events. These events include Ribbon Cuttings and Ground Breaking Ceremonies, Leading Business of the Week Presentations, Business After Hours, Chamber New Member Orientations and other special events.

“Joan was instrumental to the Chamber last year,” says Tina Godwin, Ambassadors Chair. “Not only did she attend nearly every event; she also helped recruit new members.”

After reviewing the numbers for Ambassador of the Quarter, the Chamber staff announced a tie for this year's first quarter.

Chamber Ambassadors Courtney Matthews and Jerry Kozuch are 2013's first Ambassadors of the Quarter! With Matthews and Kozuch each receiving a total of 520 points this quarter, there was no better solution than to honor them both for all of their hard work and dedication to the Chamber. Matthews and Kozuch earned points through volunteering at Chamber events and programs throughout the last three months. The Ambassadors were awarded a certificate and a pin at last week's Chamber 101.

Matthews, serving her third year as an Ambassador, is Director of Sales with the Courtyard by Marriott Valdosta.

Kozuch works as the patient representative and head of public relations for South Georgia Vein Centers of Valdosta. Here at the Chamber, she is beginning her second enrollment this year as an Ambassador, giving her an overall total of six years as an Ambassador.

"I love being an Ambassador because I am always getting to meet new people and help with their businesses," Kozuch said. "It is my privilege to serve our wonderful Chamber, and thanks to Dr. Greg Martin, with South Georgia Vein Centers, for allowing me the honor."

Tina Godwin- Chairman
First State Bank & Trust

Boris Nelson
(Clean Freaks)

Carmen Wilkinson
(Telamon Corporation)

Christopher Gates
(CertusBANK)

Christine Trimble
(Southern Vein & Laser Center)

Cindy Hotchkiss
(Cornerstone Design)

Courtney Copeland
(Drury Inn & Suites)

Courtney Gooding
(Southeastern Federal
Credit Union)

Courtney Matthews
(Courtyard by Marriott)

Diane Mauldin
(South Georgia Medical Center)

Dion Chapman
(Southwest Georgia Bank)

Frances Pride
(Sparkles Weddings and
Special Events)

Gerrell Aldridge
(New Hire Solutions)

Jennie Boyer
(Wild Adventures
Theme Park)

Jerry Kozuch
(South Georgia
Vein Centers)

Joan Wilkinson
(Mobile Notary Service)

Jordan Bacon
(AFLAC Insurance)

Kellie Banks
(Clarion Inn)

Kelvin Miley
(SAM's Club)

Kris Cain
(Travis Pate State Farm)

Lisa Register
(Comfort Keepers)

Lyndi Soles
(Fairway Outdoor Advertising)

Mary King
(Telamon Corporation)

Michael Anderson
The Valdosta Vault

Michael Meeks
(Edward Jones Investments)

Patti Minton
(The Greeting Service)

Rhonda Miller
(Fox 49 WTLH)

Robin Slade
(Altitude Communications)

Taylor Lewis
(New Hire Solutions)

Tony LaMarca
(ERA Joyner Realty)

Vickie Godwin
(Commercial Banking
Company)

Violet Sherry
(Sparkles Weddings and
Special Events)