The Cayce-West Columbia Chamber has entered 2026 with a planned transition of leadership, including new Board members, and a new Chairman and CEO.

The Chamber held its annual Strategic Planning Session on Friday, Jan. 9, at which time the incoming Chair, JB Beckett of Beckett Financial was sworn in as the 2026 Chairman.

Pictured above (Left to Right) – JB Beckett (Chair), Kathleen Agustin, (Vice Chair), Lindsey Miles (Immediate Past Chair), Josh Stevenson (Secretary), and Mark Mossell (Treasurer)

In addition to the Chairman, an Executive Committee was installed.

The new Executive Committee includes: Kathleen Agustin-Vice Chair, Mark Mossell-Treasurer, Josh Stevenson-Secretary, and Lindsey Miles-Immediate Past Chair.

JB Beckett has served as Vice Chair for several years to ready himself for the duty as Chairman. Beckett is a long-time West Columbia business owner and community advocate who has served in various volunteer capacities over the last decade.

“It is indeed an honor for me to serve as the leader of this fine organization, where I can further serve business members of all sizes, along with promoting tourism for the Greater CWC area,” Beckett said.

New President and CEO

On January 1, Christina Nelson, who has achieved great respect while serving as the Director of Operations for the Chamber over the last several years, assumed the role of Interim CEO and President. Tim James who led the Chamber for years will remain in an active role. He was appointed by the Chamber Board as CEO-Mentor. James will assist the Board of Directors, and Christina Nelson as she assumes the CEO position.

These changes, promotions and appointments were planned well in advance and achieved through the direction of the Board of Directors, CEO Search Committee, and other leaders from the business community. The goal is to maintain the trajectory of the Chamber, while facilitating a smooth transition and a path for growth and success.

Additionally, three newly elected Board members were installed; Frank Rakowski of Marriott, Meagan Bailey of Lexington Health and Lucia Smith of Pyramid Contracting.

These three business leaders began their three-year term on Jan. 1. “The first Business Breakfast meeting of 2026 is planned for Jan. 27, and the attendance maxed out 2 weeks prior to the meeting, – which reflects the excitement of members and their desire to begin networking”, said Beckett.

Chairman Beckett expressed his excitement in taking the helm of a proven productive program, with a board of engaged and business focused leaders.

“Our Chamber and Visitor Programs are financially stable, which will allow our board to lean into innovative ideas
that will continue to promote business and support our small businesses.”

The January 27 the meeting will have Kirk Jenkins, CEO Lexington Health as the guest speaker, as well as presenting Students and Educators of the Quarter, and the presentation of the 2025 Parade of Lights Winners.