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
With nearly 30 years of experience in business ownership, sales, operations, and community leadership, I am passionate about helping businesses thrive and strengthening the communities they serve. I currently own and operate Laundry Masters and Basket Case Flea Market, continuing my commitment to entrepreneurship and exceptional customer service.
My career includes leadership roles with TurnKey Vacation Rentals, Vacasa, and Coastline Adventures Inc., where I spent more than 17 years overseeing business operations, sales, marketing, finance, and customer relations while managing multi-market teams and building strong community partnerships.
Community service has always been central to my career. I have served on the Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, supporting local businesses, fostering partnerships, and promoting economic growth.
One of my greatest passions is volunteering as a patched member of Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA). Through BACA, I dedicate my time to empowering abused children, helping them feel safe, supported, and never alone.
Whether through business leadership or volunteer service, I am committed to making a positive impact by strengthening businesses, empowering individuals, and building stronger communities.
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
Roselia has dedicated both her career and personal life to serving others. She spent more than 20 years in the medical field, where she developed a deep commitment to compassion, service, and caring for her community.
After traveling across the United States in support of her husband's work, she returned to Texas with a renewed appreciation for community and entrepreneurship. Together, they owned and operated 181 Diner & BBQ, proudly serving the Taft community for three years.
Her passion for community service led her to serve four years on the Pride of Taft Board of Directors, supporting beautification and community improvement efforts. For more than five years, she has also been a dedicated member of the Taft Chamber of Commerce, working to promote local businesses, strengthen partnerships, and foster economic growth.
Roselia is also an active volunteer with Holy Family Catholic Church and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, supporting church events and community outreach. Known for her servant's heart and unwavering dedication, she continues to make a lasting impact by helping build a stronger, more connected Taft.
Dena Gonzalez
Board Member
Bio