Meet the Veterans Chamber of Commerce NFP Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors comprises a diverse group of leaders deeply committed to empowering and supporting U.S. Veterans. With extensive experience across various industries and a shared passion for serving those who have served our nation, our board members bring invaluable expertise and insight to our organization. Through their guidance, advocacy, and strategic vision, we are dedicated to advancing our mission of providing resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities that enhance the entrepreneurial success and economic independence of Veterans in the business community. Get to know the individuals driving our organization forward and learn more about their dedication to Veteran empowerment.
-
Frank Gutierrez
FOUNDING BOARD PRESIDENT
Founder of the Veterans Chamber of Commerce, Frank is the inaugural Board President for the council and has a unifying vision for bring value to the veteran business community.
-
Ryan Patrick Hunt
BOARD SECRETARY
Ryan is a retired army officer and serial entrepreneur with experience across operations and Human Resource Management. He is the Founder of Tenth Mountain & the Veteran Social Summit, Co-Founder of Veteran Lifestyle Magazine, and currently serving as an Ambassador for the Institute for Veterans and Military Families, Syracuse University.
-
Michael A. Salim
FOUNDING BOARD TREASURER
Michael A. Salim brings a wealth of nonprofit and financial leadership to the Veterans Chamber and is the incorporator and founding member of the organization.
-
Saul Marchan
FOUNDING BOARD FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
Saul Marchan is a Marine Veteran, a small business owner of Bluberry, and a Veteran advocate. He is also a Veteran advisory council member for the City of Chicago.
-
July Franco
FOUNDING BOARD SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
July is former Gunnery Sergeant in the Marine Corps, and is the board’s first Vice President. She is one of two board members who will serve in this role. She is the President and CEO owner of Franco Hauling, LLC, and she brings a vast wealth of knowledge with her time working at the VA.
-
Carlos Cardenas, CAE
FOUNDING BOARD DIRECTOR
Carlos is a former Sergeant in the Marine Corps and a tech executive with experience in the nonprofit industry. He is the current Chair of the ASAE Technology Professionals Advisory Council and a co-founder of the nonprofit Association Latinos.
-
Sarita S. Connelly
FOUNDING BOARD DIRECTOR and INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Sarita Connelly is the Founder of SS Connelly Consulting, LLC, a practice specializing in fundraising, development, and grant writing; strategic planning facilitation and execution; fractional non-profit COO services; training and development; business coaching and DEI programming and facilitation.
Veterans Chamber of Commerce NFP Directors Emeritus
The title of Director Emeritus is an honorary designation awarded to distinguished former board members of the Veterans Chamber of Commerce who have demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to our mission. This recognition is given as a sign of respect and appreciation for their contributions in shaping the Chamber’s growth and impact on the Veteran community.
Director Emeritus members may serve in an advisory capacity, providing valuable insights, mentorship, and continuity to our leadership team. While they no longer hold active decision-making roles, their guidance and historical knowledge help sustain the Chamber’s mission of empowering Veteran entrepreneurs and businesses.
We proudly recognize our Director Emeritus members for their unwavering commitment to serving our Veteran community and for their ongoing support in shaping the future of the Veterans Chamber of Commerce.
-
Wayne Toberman
FOUNDING BOARD DIRECTOR EMERITUS
Wayne Toberman brings a wealth of leadership experience to the board, having served in multiple leadership capacities as a Lieutenant Colonel throughout the globe. He is an incorporator of the organization.