Stacey Brister showcases gratitude and optimism for Orange County when discussing her latest leadership role.
“The turning of the calendar to 2025 offers us a unique opportunity to reflect on our goals, our accomplishments, learn from our past experiences, set new goals and renew our commitment to making Orange stronger together,” she said.
“Over the past year, we have witnessed remarkable resilience and innovation within our business community. It has been difficult at times.”
The full-time superintendent of schools for Little Cypress-Mauriceville CISD delivered those remarks as part of her latest volunteer effort – 2025 chairwoman for the Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce.
Brister’s words were part of the group’s annual meeting and awards banquet, which allowed Chamber members to say goodbye to 2024 leaders, share plans for 2025 and celebrate numerous individuals and businesses who are driving local success.
“As we embrace the theme of making Orange stronger together, let us remember our collective strength lies in unity,” Brister said. “By working together, supporting each other, striving for excellence, we can make Orange a beacon for prosperity and innovation. I ask that you commit with me to making this year one of unparalleled success for our businesses and communities.
“I am a product of public school. I am a product of Lamar State College Orange. I am a product of Lamar University. I am an advocate for public schools and their positive impact in our communities. I look forward to serving with you. Here’s to a prosperous new year for all of us.”
Brister accepted the ceremonial chairman’s jacket and gavel from outgoing chairwoman Jessica Hill, who made sure to highlight many 2024 accomplishments.
Hill, project manager with Entergy Texas, lauded the chamber’s volunteer board for continually assisting the business community through action.
“We cut 23 ribbons in 2024, hosted 11 breakfast connections and ended the year with 447 members who understand the value the chamber of commerce brings to their business,” she said. “We pushed ourselves to improve the chamber, how it succeeds and how it serves.”
The recent economic development included the ribbon cutting and grand opening of H.B. Neild Construction’s Orange County office at 18770 Highway 62 South, just north of Bridge City near the intersection with Highway 105 (Orangefield Road).
The new facility sits on nearly 2 acres and includes an 8,000-square-foot main office and warehouse. There is also a 2,100-square-foot equipment bay and secondary warehouse.
At capacity, the location is going to employ a dozen professionals and serve as an Orange County hub for H.B. Neild services within its construction, plumbing and HVAC departments.
Vice President of Operations Todd Langston also joined the Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors in 2025, saying in part, “I know we’re a group of people who can get things done. I know we are a group of people who follow through to completion.”
This week’s celebration included numerous recognitions for those volunteers, businesses and organizations who stand out through their commitment to community.
Special winners included:
- Clyde V. McKee III, President and CEO of theNelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation, was named Citizen of the Year.
- Megan Layne, Orange County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director, was named Board Chairperson of the Year.
- Mathews Jewelers Orange was spotlighted for the Business Community Service Award.
- Be Blessed Orange County was spotlighted for the Non-Profit Community Service Award.
- Colton Baker of First Financial Bank Texas received the Next Generation Orange Community Spotlight Award.
- Ashla Taylor was named Chamber Ambassador of the Year.
