Welcome from the Board of Directors
The Taft Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is made up of dedicated volunteers who generously contribute their time, experience, and leadership to strengthen our business community and improve the quality of life in Taft. Each director serves without compensation, driven by a shared commitment to supporting local businesses, promoting economic growth, and fostering community partnerships. Together, our volunteer Board works to ensure the Chamber remains a trusted advocate for our members and a positive force for the entire Taft community.
Leslie Pullin
President
For the past four years, I have had the honor of serving as Justice of the Peace, committed to providing fair, respectful, and dependable service to every person who comes before the court. With more than 25 years as a dedicated 4-H leader, I have also had the privilege of mentoring young people and helping develop future leaders in our community.
I have proudly called Taft home for the past 32 years and have been a resident of South Texas for 49 years. These deep roots have given me a strong appreciation for the people, values, and traditions that make our communities special.
Family is the foundation of my life. I have been happily married for 32 years and am blessed with four children and seven grandchildren. My family has instilled in me the importance of faith, hard work, service, and treating others with kindness and respect.
Whether serving on the bench or volunteering through 4-H, I believe in leading with integrity, fairness, and compassion. I am committed to listening, making thoughtful decisions, and serving my community with honesty, accountability, and dedication. It is an honor to give back to the community that has given so much to me and my family.
Beverly Gilbreath
Vice President
I am a business owner, community leader, and entrepreneur with nearly 30 years of experience in business operations, sales, and leadership. I currently own and operate Laundry Masters and Basket Case Flea Market, and have held leadership roles with Vacasa, TurnKey Vacation Rentals, and Coastline Adventures Inc.
As a patched member of Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA), I proudly volunteer my time to help empower abused children, providing support and encouragement so they know they are never alone. Whether through business or volunteer service, my goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Felipe Rodriguez III
Treasurer
Born and raised in Taft, Texas, Felipe Rodriguez III is a dedicated community leader, business owner, and proud U.S. Navy veteran who served in support of Operation Desert Shield and a member of the local V.F.W. Post 9318. His lifelong commitment to service has continued well beyond his military career through active involvement in civic leadership and community development.
Felipe has served on numerous city boards and commissions, including Taft City Council, Taft Quality Improvement Corporation (TQIC), Taft Building and Standards Commission. He has worked to promote growth and improve the quality of life for residents.
In 2024, Felipe and his wife Alicia opened Taft’s only laundromat, continuing their investment in the community by providing an essential local service.
Above all, Felipe values family. He is married to his wife, Alicia, and together they are blessed with 11 grandchildren, who inspire his ongoing commitment to building a stronger future for the Taft community.
Melanie Hickey
Secretary
A lifelong resident and graduate of Taft Schools, Melanie has devoted her life to serving the Taft community through volunteer leadership, civic involvement, and professional achievement. She is passionate about preserving Taft's heritage while helping build a stronger future for generations to come.
Her community service includes serving as President of the Friends of the Taft Public Library and the Tip of Texas Girl Scout Council, as well as leadership roles with the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. She is also an active member of the Holy Family Altar Society, the Taft ISD Education Foundation, and serves as Vice President of the San Patricio County Republican Women.
Professionally, she enjoyed a successful 45-year career in direct sales, earning National Top Sales recognition in 2015. She also owned and operated Heart's Desire, a wedding coordination and decorating business known for creating memorable celebrations.
Married to her high school sweetheart for 50 years, she is the proud mother of three children and grandmother of four. She enjoys traveling, scrapbooking, entertaining family and friends, and continues to invest her time and talents in the community she proudly calls home.
Roselia Searcy
Board Member
Bio
Dena Gonzalez
Board Member
Bio