CHAMBER BOARD DIRECTORY
Jewell Davenport, Chair
Jewell Davenport, owner of KDJ Insurance Agency, is a respected insurance professional with over 40 years of experience in the insurance industry. Throughout a long and accomplished career, Jewell has been known for integrity, reliability, and deep industry knowledge. Beyond professional work, Jewell has generously volunteered significant time supporting The Chamber and the Greater Marion Area Chamber, reflecting a strong commitment to community service and local economic growth. In her personal time, Jewell enjoys spending time with her husband, John and friends, especially playing pickleball and staying active.
Kasie Tankersley, Vice Chair
Kasie Tankersley is a Community Relations Representative. She began her career with the GVEC in 2017 as a customer service representative and quickly transitioned into her current role. As the community relations representative, Kasie can be found giving community presentations to all ages on electrical safety, energy efficiency or GVEC products and services, representing GVEC at community events, planning GVEC events as well as being active in the communities GVEC serves. Tankersley holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Parks and Tourism Science from Texas A&M University. Kasie is a member of several committees and organizations throughout the GVEC territory and enjoys serving as a community partner. Kasie and her son, Boone and reside in La Vernia.
David Mueller, Vice Chair
David Mueller is a longtime resident of Marion and a dedicated business and community leader committed to supporting local growth and education. He serves as Vice President of Finance and Governance for the Marion Education Foundation and as Vice President of the Greater Marion Area Chamber of Commerce, where he works to strengthen community partnerships and encourage economic development in the area.
In 1981, David founded KDJ Insurance Agency and spent nearly four decades building a trusted local business before retiring in 2020. His longstanding commitment to service, leadership, and community involvement has made a lasting impact throughout Marion and the surrounding area.
Cathy Howell, Vice Chair
Cathy Howell started her career with Marion State Bank in 1976 as a posting clerk and later became a teller, bookkeeper, computer operator, loan officer and investment officer. Cathy current position is the Bank President/CEO. Cathy has been honored to have serve the Marion community for half a century. She loves waking up every morning to the best job God could have ever blessed her with.
Shirley J Bennett, Treasurer
Shirley J. Bennett, a certified public accountant (CPA) and owner of Barrett Cooper Accounting, PC since 2003 provides business advisory consulting, tax services for individuals, business, and nonprofits; accounting and auditing services.
As 1992 University of Texas at San Antonio Accounting graduate, she received her license as a certified public accountant in 1995. Shirley has provided accounting and tax services to businesses and individuals for over 25 years.
Kayla Hornsby, Secretary
Kayla Hornsby is the owner of Birdies Beauty Parlour, a family salon focused on creating a welcoming and professional experience for every client. With 18 years of experience in the beauty industry, Kayla specializes in custom color, hair extensions, and Brazilian Blowout services, backed by advanced certifications and continued education.
Outside of the salon, Kayla enjoys spending time with her children, supporting youth sports, and being around horses. She is passionate about building strong relationships within the community while helping clients look and feel their best.
Jeremy Davenport, Past Chair
Jeremy Davenport is an experienced business and civic leader with more than 20 years of experience in engineering, technology, and organizational leadership. He serves as President of Hierholzer Engineering, Inc. in Marion, where he leads personnel and oversees the design and implementation of SCADA systems that support critical infrastructure across South Texas. Alongside his professional career, Jeremy has a strong commitment to public service and community leadership. He currently serves on the board of the Greater Marion Area Chamber of Commerce in the role of Past President and also serves as Fire Chief of the Marion Volunteer Fire Department. A graduate of Marion High School, Jeremy remains actively invested in supporting the growth, safety, and long‑term success of the Marion community. Jeremy holds a BA degree in Management & Computer Science, from Texas Lutheran University, December of 2000. Jeremy is married to Michelle, and they have two children, Alise & Brenton.