Chamber Ambassador Callie Fender receives Tarleton Horizon Award

Stephenville Chamber of Commerce's Ambassador Vice President Callie Fender was recently recognized for her community outreach and volunteer service with Tarleton State University's Horizon Award!

The Horizon Award recognizes a staff member who volunteers their time or resources to the betterment of their community, thereby building and maintaining relationships that extend the reputation and impact of Tarleton State University, or is an active member of an organization providing Tarleton students leadership and service opportunities contributing to student participation in community service

Eligibility Criteria
-Volunteers time or resources to work on improvement projects on the Tarleton campus or outside the University community
-Serves as an active member of an organization that provide the Tarleton community with opportunities to become active in volunteer service and leadership
-Develops and maintains relationships that extend the reputation and impact of the University
-Serves as role model, coach, friend or advisor that people seek for help and professional development
-Volunteers through exemplary service or provision of resources to help with Tarleton events outside of the normal job duties of the employee.
-Provide exemplary volunteer service to a task force or committee within the University

Callie serves as Development Officer for Academic Colleges within the Division of Institutional Advancement. Callie was nominated by her fellow Tarleton staff and received letters of support from various community members who witness her volunteer service and community engagement. 

Statement supporting Callie's nomination from Chamber President/CEO July Danley:

Callie has served as a Stephenville Chamber of Commerce Ambassador since June of 2018. The purpose of the Ambassadors Club is to serve as the public relations arm and official host of The Chamber. This group of dedicated volunteers works to enhance the image of The Chamber and promote membership by attending Chamber and community events, visiting current and prospective Chamber members, and assisting Chamber staff with various programs and projects throughout the year. Ambassadors volunteer their time to strengthen relationships with members and increase awareness in the community of the benefits, programs and initiatives of the Chamber.

Callie’s passion for serving others and enthusiasm for Stephenville and Tarleton has been a great encouragement to the Chamber staff and Ambassador team. Callie’s creative ideas, dedication and outreach have had a tremendous positive impact on our organization. Callie brings a positive attitude and out-of-the-box thinking to our discussions about how to provide value to our membership. So far this year, Callie has recruited more new Chamber members than any other Ambassador. 

Callie has volunteered her time and energy to assist with ribbon cuttings, networking mixers, Safe Trick ‘R Treat, Holly Jolly Christmas Festival, and our annual banquet/auction fundraiser. After just six months as an Ambassador, Callie stepped up to be a Team Captain, providing leadership, advice and encouragement to other ambassadors. She also serves as Chair of the Social Committee, helping coordinate events that not only provide a fun atmosphere, but also incorporate meaningful relationship building for the group.

Callie’s presence and involvement at community events has enhanced the Chamber’s relationship with Tarleton State University in many ways. Callie is always thinking of ways to connect local businesses and non-profit organizations with the Tarleton community. Callie has been intentional in making strategic introductions of Chamber members to Tarleton representatives resulting in new valuable partnerships.

When Chamber staff needs additional volunteer help for community events, Callie is instrumental in communicating with various professors and student groups to share the volunteer opportunities. Callie also keeps Chamber staff and Ambassadors up to date on important events and programs happening on the Tarleton campus.

I can’t think of a more passionate cheerleader for Tarleton State University and the Stephenville community. Callie gives generously of her time and talent to improve the town and university that she loves.