Board of Directors
John Yelkich
John Yelkich has been a State Farm agent in downtown Hobart for the last
13 years. John grew up in Hobart Township and attended Henry S. Evans
Elementary School. Upon graduation from high school, he received a
degree in sociology from Valparaiso University. John is also a past
president of the Hobart Chamber and is currently on his second tenure with
the chamber board.
Jeffrey Perz
Jeff, a retired IT professional with 40 years of experience at NiSource, remains actively engaged in his community. He is a dedicated member of the Hobart Chamber of Commerce and serves as Treasurer for Exceptional Equestrians, a Hobart-based nonprofit that provides therapeutic horseback riding lessons for individuals with special needs. Additionally, Jeff is a board member at Members Source Credit Union, contributing his expertise to its governance and strategic initiatives.
Nancy Mathena
A proud Hobart resident of more than 31 years, Nancy brings experience and passion to her role as an Account Executive with Pulse Technology. For over seven years, she has been representing the company throughout Highland, Griffith, Munster, Schererville, Dyer, St. John, Hobart, and the surrounding communities, as well as all Lake County Government offices. In her current role, she assists clients with all furnishing and design needs and strives to simplify their purchasing process. Providing exceptional customer service is her main mission.
Prior to her employment at Pulse, Nancy served as Office Management/Chief Deputy for the Porter County Health Department. She is a passionate supporter of Humane Indiana and the Hobart Humane Society, where she adopted her two dogs, Daisy and Duke.
With experience across multiple Chambers and organizations, Nancy helps clients streamline their operations to ensure local businesses thrive in Hobart and beyond. She is proud to serve on the Hobart Chamber board to support the continued growth and well-being of our fine city and its residents.
Shauna Craib
Shauna Craib brings nearly three decades of expertise in accounting, financial strategy, and business operations. As founder of Craib Accounting, she has supported clients across industries like non-profits, healthcare, construction, and e-commerce—helping them strengthen financial systems and scale with confidence.
Previously, she held executive roles including CFO of Mezame of Chicago where she led financial oversight and strategic initiatives. Her experience also spans multiple chambers of commerce where she has contributed to financial leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement through roles on executive boards and as a treasurer. Now on the Hobart Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Shauna remains passionate about empowering local businesses and driving community growth.
Staci Phillips
Experienced banking management professional with extensive expertise in implementing and achieving strategic and tactical goals for the company. Proven abilities in developing client partnerships and referral networks that lead to new business and long lasting banking relationships. Provide strong leadership, management and direction to staff, while ensuring the delivery of superior quality service and product support to all company members.
• 38+ years of experience in the financial industry, business development, customer sales and service
• I pride myself on being a hands-on, dynamic team director and mentor with the ability to develop strong rapport with fellow colleagues
• Within my well-rounded skill set, I possess problem solving abilities and analytical ingenuity, and I am always determined in my endeavors to grow in any office/managerial position
Bill Stocky
With 35 years of experience in the flooring industry and 20 years installing, I offer valuable insights and designs for all flooring projects, including residential and commercial applications.
With past and current board commitments from Chicago Architecture federation.
Vice president of Duneland Ski Club, and NWI Parrothead club.
Creator of the Taltree Photography club and managed several hockey teams.
Proud to be a Chamber member and ready to share knowledge, collaboration and strong community growth.
Kara Gora
Christina Piech
Christina “Tina” Piech brings more than 30 years of healthcare experience and a strong commitment to community engagement to her role as a Board Member with the Hobart Chamber of Commerce. As an Employer Solutions Account Executive with Franciscan WorkingWell since 2023, Tina partners with employers throughout Northwest Indiana to improve workplace health, strengthen safety, and support the overall well-being of the local workforce.
Her work with Franciscan introduced her to deeper community involvement in Hobart, where the city’s welcoming spirit, strong relationships, and continued growth inspired her to join the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Tina is known for her creativity, passion, and ability to bring people together, values she has demonstrated in previous leadership roles, including serving as President of the Highland High School Parents Swim Club from 2015 to 2022.
Outside of her professional commitments, Tina enjoys hiking, outdoor activities, and spending time with her family. She finds her greatest fulfillment in helping others and contributing to initiatives that strengthen the community she calls home
Ashley White
As the Director at Roman's Roofing, I bring over 15 years of professional experience and a strong accounting foundation to this leadership role. Originally from Parker, Colorado, I combine sharp financial acumen with a genuine commitment to operational excellence, helping guide the company's continued growth and success.
Holding a degree in Accounting, I have spent my career developing deep expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and business operations. My analytical approach and attention to detail have made me an invaluable asset in overseeing the financial health and organizational efficiency of Roman's Roofing.
Beyond my technical expertise, I am dedicated to fostering a company culture rooted in integrity, accountability, and community involvement — values that reflect Roman's Roofing's commitment to giving back to the communities it serves. My leadership continues to help drive the company's mission of providing quality service while maintaining strong ties to local businesses and charitable initiatives.
With my extensive background and steady leadership, I play a key role in shaping Roman's Roofing's direction and success.
Susan Thompson
Executive Director - Hobart Chamber of Commerce
Illiana Indoor Billboards (Owner)
Destination Discovery Travel Agency (Co-Owner)
LegalShield (Independent Associate)
Call Me Covered(Co-Owner)