The Southtowns Regional Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the election of seven distinguished professionals to its Board of Directors. Each has been elected to serve a 3.5-year term through December 2028.
“We are so excited to welcome these new members to our Board of Directors,” executive director Matt Heidt said. “They, along with our current board members, bring a wealth of expertise in business development, economic growth, entrepreneurship, community service, and regional collaboration to our board. Their leadership will help advance the Chamber’s mission to support businesses and foster a vibrant Southtowns economy.”
Newly elected to the Board:
- Karen Benz Coen, Account Executive, Benz Associates, LLC
- John J. Callahan, CPA, Partner, Tronconi Segarra & Associates
- Sean Doyle, Executive Director, Hamburg Development Companies
- Kate Moody, Director of Operations, UB Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Vince Ricotta, Vice President of Business Development, Concept Construction Corp.
- Tim Seil, Athletic Director, Hilbert College
- Holly Smyczynski, Sponsorships Coordinator, The Fairgrounds
In addition, the Chamber proudly announces the re-election of the following Board members, also to 3.5-year terms through December 2028:
- Sallie Herberger, Growth Coach of Western New York
- Valerie Nowak, CEO, Harmonia Collaborative Care
- Dave Smaczniak, Coordinator of Corporate Training, SUNY Erie
The Chamber thanks all its Board members for their ongoing dedication to strengthening the Southtowns business community.
More on our new Board members:
Karen Benz Coen
Account Executive, Benz Associates, LLC
A lifelong Hamburg resident, Karen is deeply involved in community service, including leadership roles with Junior League of Buffalo and STAR Swimming Inc. She is passionate about supporting local businesses and enhancing regional growth.
John J. Callahan, CPA
Partner, Tronconi Segarra & Associates
A seasoned tax professional and Orchard Park resident, John brings over 30 years of public accounting experience and a commitment to strengthening Southtowns communities through sound financial guidance.
Sean Doyle
Executive Director, Hamburg Development Companies
Sean has led major economic development initiatives in Hamburg, creating jobs and driving investment. He looks forward to helping the Chamber build partnerships and promote the value of economic development.
Kate Moody
Director of Operations, UB Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership
Kate offers nearly 20 years of experience supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses across WNY, with expertise in chamber collaboration, leadership training, and community development.
Vince Ricotta
Vice President of Business Development, Concept Construction Corp.
A former Chamber Board Chair, Vince brings decades of business and leadership experience, along with a strong track record of advancing the Chamber’s regional mission.
Tim Seil
Athletic Director, Hilbert College
Tim has expanded Hilbert’s athletic programs and forged strong local partnerships. He is eager to further connect Hilbert with Southtowns businesses and community initiatives.
Holly Smyczynski
Sponsorships Coordinator, The Fairgrounds
Holly returns to the Board with extensive experience in sponsorships, event planning, and community outreach, supporting businesses and regional tourism through her work at The Fairgrounds.


