President
Meredith Allred Professional Products Inc.

After serving over 6 years in the Army as a Personnel Officer, I was hired by Professional Products, Inc. in Defuniak Springs. I have now been with PPI for 7 years and serve as the Human Resource Manager. As the Chapter President, my primary goal is to provide the membership with valuable training that offers accessible local resources.

President Elect & Vice President of Hospitality
April Adams ,PhD, University of West Florida - Eglin Center

I am the director of Distance Education for the School of Education at The University of West Florida. I’m an avid photographer and scrapbooker and hope to assist in bringing quality, well-received programs each month for our members.

Vice President of Programs
Dennis Conger, CFP, Wells Fargo Advisors

I am First Vice President- Investments with Wells Fargo Advisors in Destin. I began my financial service career in 1985, after graduating from BYU, and have been with the same firm ever since. I specialize in helping train pre-retirees get their "financial houses in order" so that they may be more secure in their retirement years.

Vice President of Membership
Nita McLaney Walton County Clerk of Courts

I have been employed as the Human Resource Manager with the Walton County Clerk's Office since January 2001. Currently working on my certification from the Florida Public Personnel Association (FPPA). Have over 22 years of experience in the H. R. field.

Vice President of Communication
Phil Wells , Jobs Plus

I conduct workshops and provides other educational services that equip job seekers and employed workers with the skills necessary to obtain and maintain employment, which also includes administering the Florida Ready to Work program throughout the region. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Vice President of Technology

Karen Sieczka Founder, GrowingGreatIdeas.com

I am an adjunct instructor and training consultant. In 2008, I trained almost 700 participants in technology, supervisory skills, and customized training workshops. I recently completed the first edition of my new book Growing Great Ideas: Unleashing Creativity at Work. I have a bachelor's in management and a master's in public administration. My goal is to keep our ASTD website up to date with loads of usable information for the members.

Northwest Florida State College Liaison
Pam Walters
I am a lifelong Floridian, born in Okaloosa County. I am married, have two lovely daughters and am in the process of building a new home. I have a Bachelors in Education from the University of West Florida and a Master’s in Management from Troy State University. I have worked in the Women’s Educational Resource Center at Northwest Florida State College as a Grant Coordinator for 13 years and am passionate about my work. I love the informative seminars and workshops offered by ASTD and look forward to strengthening and facilitating the relationship with Northwest Florida State College in any and all possible ways.

Past President

Joyce Szilvasy CHELCO, Manager of Human Resources

I’ve been working in the field of Human Resources since 1976. My responsibilities have been general in nature and included: safety and security, union, recruiting, benefits, training & development. I am currently responsible for recruiting, retention, regulatory compliance, and wage and benefits. I've been married 41 years and have two sons.