Ambassadors

Corvallis Chamber's Ambassador Team 2024

The Chamber Ambassadors welcome new businesses and celebrate milestones for existing businesses in Benton County. Ambassadors host groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, dedications, anniversary celebrations and other business milestones by meeting at a place of business, facilitating an appropriate ceremony and promoting the event through the Chamber’s various marketing channels. They also participate in volunteer projects which benefit other businesses in our community.

Anyone interested in becoming an Ambassador must be a member in good standing, agree to participate in the events on a regular basis and commit to a modest investment to offset the individual costs associated with the program. To join the Ambassadors team, download and complete the Ambassador Application. You must also review and the Ambassador Code of Ethics to be considered for this position. (These forms can be found at the bottom of this page.)

Why did you join the Ambassador Committee? My employer, Cardwell Hill Cellars was a part of the Corvallis Chamber and they wanted me to represent them at the Greeters meeting on every Tuesday. Also, to let people know about Cardwell Hill Cellars and the beautiful places that is within our community. Plus, it was a way to connect with others. 

BIO: I have worked for Cardwell Hill Cellars for the past 10 years. I started out doing accounting, then moved into the Tasting Room and then doing some marketing.   I have lived and worked in the community my entire life.  I have 5 children and I love to ride motorcycles.

Bio: Building relationships: Using technology for a human connection---By Brenna Wieg and
Ryan Kackley has a renaissance soul.

He has translated his passion for human connection and technology into a business epitomizing and helping define the way of business in the coming decades, with social capital as its currency.
Clients, including many start-up businesses, often start by having Kackley create a WordPress webpage, or updating their existing site to WordPress. He guides them in the use of social networking tools, including Facebook pages, blogs, and other networking resources.

I like empowering people to do as much of it as they would like to.” Kackley recommends promoting one’s business, non-profit or community event on Facebook. “When I meet somebody I’m looking to plug them in somewhere, based on their unique skills, services and what their needs are,”
“If someone can simply come up with three needs, goals or desires, generally I can facilitate at least one of them, if not all three,”

He conducts trainings for businesses, including stress reduction, increasing business leads, cold-calling and computer classes, including how to use Facebook, Skype, WordPress and smartphones.
“For a long time, I didn’t have a term for what I did and the way it’s geared around relationships,” Kackley said. He embraced the term “social capital” while going through the Ford Institute Leadership Program. He now helps conduct Ford Institute trainings.

“My goal is mutuality and harmony for any interaction or transaction; you’re not trying to sell anybody anything,” Kackley said. “My philosophy is that everything is about relationships.”

Why did you join the Ambassador Committee? To help further business connections within our great community--in order to make it an even better place, to conduct business. For profit-making ventures, public agency's, and non-profit organizations. And to help foster the growth of our Chamber--and our local economy--by engaging with our local leaders, at all levels. 

Bio: My family settled in Eugene in 1847. So, I’m a sixth-generation Oregonian. My birthplace is Albany; but I spent my formative years growing up in the logging community of Philomath.

After graduating from high school, I’ve earned degrees in Radio Broadcasting, Business Management, and a BA in Organizational Leadership from George Fox University. Among other things I’ve worked for the local chapter of the American Red Cross, and the United Way of Benton County. In addition, I’ve been an electronic security systems sales and design consultant, since 2004. We specialize primarily in Intrusion and Fire alarm and Camera Surveillance systems—for both homes and businesses.

I’ve been active in the Chamber since 2004 (and was honored to be Co-Ambassador of the Year in 2012). In my spare time I collect classic rock and blues music, which I listen to on vintage home stereo gear. Plus, I’m an administrator on the Oregon Fishing Forum. 

Bio: Ben Danley has spent most of his career working for local and international nonprofits and now owns a business that provides services for nonprofit leaders and long distance pet transportation (guess which part of his business involves more visits to sketchy interstate gas station bathrooms). His nonprofit consulting business focuses on leadership transitions, board development and one-on-one coaching. When he's not working, Ben enjoys volunteering, riding his motorcycle, backpacking, photography, and traveling in Asia.

Why did you join the Ambassador Committee? As a Chamber Ambassador, Craig became involved for several important reasons. First and foremost, it aligns with his passion for supporting local small businesses and helping them grow. Being a Chamber Ambassador allows Craig to connect with like-minded professionals and provide mentorship and guidance, helping fellow business owners succeed in the community.



Additionally, it gives Craig a platform to promote his advocacy for nonprofits, encouraging collaboration and fostering relationships that benefit the local economy. It also provides opportunities to stay actively engaged in community events, giving him a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities small businesses face. This role supports Craig's long-term goal of building a thriving local economy and creating lasting partnerships across diverse industries.

Bio: Craig McPherson brings a vast and diverse background in manufacturing, project management, and problem-solving to his role as a small business owner. With decades of hands-on experience, including working with automation, robotics, and precision engineering, Craig has mastered the art of turning ideas into reality. His journey from a Tool & Die maker to managing large-scale construction projects gives him a unique skill set that he now applies to running his business, CNC Wood Cutters.

Driven by a lifelong goal of helping other local small businesses thrive, Craig is passionate about supporting entrepreneurs and nonprofits alike. His commitment to community is evident in his efforts to collaborate with businesses and individuals, offering personalized marketing solutions, custom products, and expert design services.

Craig believes in the power of small businesses to fuel the local economy, and his mission is to uplift others by sharing his knowledge, resources, and creativity. Whether it's providing promotional products, aiding in brand development, or offering guidance to non-profits, Craig is dedicated to making a positive impact and helping others succeed.

Why did you join the Ambassador Committee? I love all the support the Chamber gives to local businesses and am excited to be a part of that!

Bio: As the Customer Care Advocate at Fitzpatrick Painting and Construction, Deanna is dedicated to delivering exceptional service through meaningful customer interactions, seamless event coordination, and effective marketing support. Known for her detail-oriented and proactive approach, Deanna brings energy, organization, and a people-first mindset to every interaction. She has been part of the Corvallis community since 2007 and involved with the Corvallis Chamber since 2018. In her free time, Deanna enjoys exploring the beautiful Oregon coast, wine tasting, and spending time with friends and family.

Why did you join the Ambassador Committee?  I want to be an Ambassador because I genuinely enjoy connecting with people and helping them feel welcomed. I have seen firsthand how impactful Chamber relationships and resources can be.

Bio: With over 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals and families across Oregon turn their homeownership dreams into reality. Based in Albany and serving the surrounding communities, I’m more than just a mortgage advisor: I’m your neighbor, your advocate, and your partner in navigating one of life’s biggest financial decisions. My journey has taken me across cultures and continents, including nearly two decades living in Bolivia and Peru. These experiences have shaped my approach to service –empathetic, inclusive, and deeply rooted in community values. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, refinancing, or exploring investment opportunities, I’m here to guide you with clarity, care, and commitment. I’m not just here for the paperwork; I’m here for the people. This community is home, and I love being part of it. Whether I’m cheering on a local business, volunteering at an event, or rowing on the river with friends, I believe in showing up and being present. Helping people feel supported – whether they’re buying a home or building a life here – is what it’s all about.

Scott Benson

Company: WorkSource Oregon
Ambassador since:  2026

Phone: 541-812-8640

Email: Brian.S.Benson@employ.oregon.gov
Webpage: WorkSource Oregon - Home