Staff

The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC is a private, non-profit organization focused on supporting the regional business community. Please note that we are not a regulatory body or state agency and are unable to respond to general public inquiries unrelated to business or economic development. Business assistance inquiries will be reviewed and answered in a timely manner. We appreciate your understanding and thank you for reaching out.

If you’re not sure who to direct your inquiry to, please call us at 717.232.4099. You may also email us here.

Dom Colardo
Dominic Colardo
Member Engagement Manager
717.213.5040

Dom oversees the recruitment of new Chamber members and ensures a positive experience for current Chamber members.

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Kevin DiGuiseppe
Kevin DiGuiseppe
Business Policy & Advocacy Manager
717.213.5041

Kevin manages the design, coordination, activities and operations of the Chamber’s government relations program, serving as the primary liaison between Chamber members and the region’s elected and government officials.

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Heather Eyster Headshot
Heather Eyster
Senior Director of Investor and Member Engagement
717.213.5045

Heather is responsible for the direction and execution of strategic revenue initiatives including CREDC campaign fundraising, membership sales and retention, advertising sales and event sponsorship sales.

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Lindsey Holtzman
Lindsey Holtzman
Senior Director of Events
717.213.5044

As Director of Events for the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC, Lindsey manages sponsorship solicitation and oversees the development and implementation of over 80 events annually, ranging from large regional events to a slew of networking events.

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Susan Hunter
Susan Hunter
Staff Accountant
717.213.5021

As Staff Accountant, Susie reports directly to the Director of Finance and is responsible for the daily financial activities of the organization. She also assists in administering various state programs and related non-profit financials.

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Jamal Jones Headshot
Jamal Jones
Manager of Regional Initiatives
717.213.5054

As Manager of Regional Initiatives for the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC, Jamal Jones leads the development and execution of strategic initiatives that support regional growth and economic development. He plays a key role in fostering partnerships, securing funding, and implementing programs that drive business expansion and community revitalization across the region.

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Kara Luzik Canale
Kara Luzik Canale
Vice President of Strategy and Chamber Impact
717.213.5030

Kara is the Vice President of Strategy and Chamber Impact. She leads the implementation and management of our strategic plan and directs chamber operations to produce powerful results for the Harrisburg Region.

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Scott Rogers
Scott Rogers
Vice President of Finance and Administration
717.213.5039

As Vice President of Finance and Administration, Scott’s areas of focus include annual audits, annual budgets, and monthly financials, in addition to HR responsibilities.

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Paige Shope
Communications and Marketing Manager
717.213.5046

As the Communications and Marketing Manager, Paige Shope strives to highlight the untold stories of the greater Harrisburg region, aiming to showcase its economic successes, cultural richness, and untapped potential.

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Melissa Stone
Vice President of Economic Development
717.213.5042

Melissa serves as the Vice President of Economic Development for the Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), the economic development arm of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber.

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Ryan Unger
President & CEO
717.213.5020

Ryan serves as President & CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (Chamber & CREDC). He provides high-profile leadership, vision, and strategic direction for the organization.

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Anita Weikel
Anita Weikel
Lending Officer, Economic Development
717.213.5036

Anita manages the loan programs and loan portfolios, enhance pipeline growth, and nurture client relationships while helping to elevate the potential of the tri-county region of Cumberland, Dauphin, & Perry.

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We can’t wait to meet you!
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Contact Dominic Colardo

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Dom Colardo
Dominic Colardo
Member Engagement Manager
717.213.5040

A resident of the Capital region since childhood, Dominic Colardo attended Central Dauphin East High School.  He continued his education at Mount Saint Mary’s College where he received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and competed for the track and cross-country teams.  He is proud to call Harrisburg his home.

Over the past decade, Dominic worked for various local media companies including Pennlive.com and The Insurance & Financial Media Network in new business development and marketing consultant roles.  He found joy in helping his partners grow their businesses by combining data analytics with his experience in digital advertising solutions.  Whenever he played a part in the success of a local business, he knew it was a win for the community as a whole.

When asked about his “Why” as Member Engagement Manager, Dominic stated “My mission is to inspire and empower local business leaders.  As we unite, we can bring about positive change.  I’m excited to use my knowledge, experience, and passion to contribute to the greater good of the places we call home.”

To learn more about all of the incredible benefits of membership, schedule a meeting with Dom today: Select a Date & Time – Calendly

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Contact Kevin DiGuiseppe

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Kevin DiGuiseppe
Kevin DiGuiseppe
Business Policy & Advocacy Manager
717.213.5041

Growing up in Bucktown, Pennsylvania, Kevin developed an interest in government and politics in his high school U.S. Government and Comparative Government classes. After graduating from Penn State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science, he began working as a District Representative for then-State Senator John Rafferty.

From there, Kevin went on to work in the communications department of the Pennsylvania House Republican Caucus, where he sharpened his skills in message crafting and issue advocacy. In this role, Kevin gained a deep understanding of the central Pennsylvania region and the issues faced by its businesses and residents.

Kevin brought this knowledge and skillset to the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC in August 2021 as the Business Policy & Advocacy Manager. Kevin works for the betterment of businesses in the Harrisburg metropolitan area, advocating legislation and public policy that supports our region’s growth and progress.

During his free time, you can find Kevin at the gym, playing music, and taking full advantage of the many opportunities for outdoorsmanship found around the capital region.

Kevin is dedicated to making sure that public policy allows our region’s business community to thrive.

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Contact Heather Eyster

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Heather Eyster Headshot
Heather Eyster
Senior Director of Investor and Member Engagement
717.213.5045
Heather Eyster, a Carlisle, PA native and Boiling Springs High School graduate, attended West Chester University, where she played basketball and earned a degree in Political Science. After briefly pursuing law school, she transitioned to a role with the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., before returning to the Harrisburg area to build a career in federal and state sales. She later expanded her expertise as a project manager for a communications firm.
Heather brings a strong background in account management, communications, and project leadership to her role at the Chamber. Known for her drive to improve systems and outcomes, she thrives on building relationships and solving problems.
As the Senior Director of Investor & Membership Engagement, Heather is responsible for leading strategic revenue initiatives, including CREDC campaign fundraising, membership growth and retention, advertising sales, and event sponsorships. Her focus is on building meaningful connections, driving results, and championing the story of the Harrisburg Region.
Outside of work, Heather lives in Camp Hill with her husband and two children. She’s also a fitness instructor at H2L in Mechanicsburg, where she channels her passion for helping others feel their best.
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Contact Lindsey Holtzman

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Lindsey Holtzman
Lindsey Holtzman
Senior Director of Events
717.213.5044

Lindsey’s journey into the world of event planning began during her freshman year in college.  It was ignited by her love for the movie “The Wedding Planner,” and coupled with insightful classroom presentations from industry professionals. Recognizing her natural talents in this field, she began her career as a wedding planner at Felicita Garden Resort & Spa after graduating from Messiah College in 2006 with a B.A. in communications.

After a year of transforming brides’ dreams into reality, Lindsey seamlessly transitioned into the world of corporate events. This shift allowed her to broaden her expertise. With her keen eye for detail, she adapted her event planning capabilities to create impactful and memorable experiences for the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC.  Through several promotions with the organization over the years, Lindsey currently serves as their Director of Events. In this role, she orchestrates the planning, development, and implementation of more than 80 events annually: ranging from large regional gatherings to various networking opportunities. Facilitating connections and fostering growth among business members in the community is one of the most fulfilling aspects of her job.

Her passion for knowledge and growth fuels Lindsey’s dedication to her profession. She actively seeks opportunities for professional development, constantly expanding her skill set and staying ahead of industry trends. In 2012, she received the Institute of Organizational Management designation (IOM) from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is a past participant of the Dame Leadership 10 New Leaders Program. She was also selected as one of Central Penn Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 recipients in 2022.

While not originally from the Harrisburg area, Lindsey has embraced it as her home for nearly two decades. She currently resides in Susquehanna Township with her husband, Greg, and their two children, Scarlett and Leo. When she’s not immersed in event planning, Lindsey finds joy in reading, hiking, singing at her church, spending time with friends and cherishing precious moments with her tiny humans.

While not originally from the Harrisburg area, Lindsey has embraced it as her home for nearly two decades. She currently resides in Susquehanna Township with her husband, Greg, and their two children, Scarlett and Leo. When she’s not immersed in event planning, Lindsey finds joy in reading, hiking, spending time with friends and cherishing precious moments with her tiny humans.

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Contact Susan Hunter

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Susan Hunter
Susan Hunter
Staff Accountant
717.213.5021

Susan Hunter is a Schuylkill County native who brings over 25 years of accounting experience to the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC. Before joining the Chamber, Susan began her career with the Credit Bureau of Greater Harrisburg where she was responsible for credit reporting and mortgage approvals. Susan also worked for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for 13 years where she was responsible for corporate taxes, employee taxes, sales taxes and individual taxes, as well as the Rent Rebate Program. Susan also served as the Hilton Harrisburg’s Staff Accountant for 5 ½ years where she was responsible for accounts payable, accounts receivable, budgets and daily reconciliations of revenues.

As Accounting Assistant, Susan reports directly to the Director of Finance and is responsible for the daily financial activities of the organization. She also assists in administering various state programs and related non-profit financials. Susan provides her accounting services to not only the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC but also Visit Hershey Harrisburg.

Susan received her Certificate in Business Scientific Programming from Schuylkill County Vocational Technical School. In her spare time Susan loves exploring the region by hiking, biking, and kayaking.

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Jamal Jones
Manager of Regional Initiatives
717.213.5054

Jamal Jones brings over 20 years of leadership and service experience to his role as Manager of Regional Initiatives at the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in Writing: Rhetoric, Genre, and Form.

Before joining the Chamber, Jamal served as the Program Manager of the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (CIE). He also held the position of Director of Business Development and LERTA Administrator for the City of Harrisburg, where he was instrumental in supporting the needs of new and existing businesses by addressing job retention, growth, expansion, financial incentives, permitting, and regulatory compliance.

Jamal’s extensive background in workforce development includes nearly a decade as the Director of South Central PA youth programs with Pennsylvania CareerLink. His leadership has been marked by a commitment to building inclusive teams and driving programmatic success.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Jamal is deeply involved in the community. He coaches youth basketball and soccer, serves on the Board of Managers at the Camp Curtin YMCA, and is an Advisory Board Member of the Central Pennsylvania Film Commission. In 2024, Jamal was recognized as one of Pennlive’s “Trailblazers and Trendsetters” and cited by City & State PA as a Black Trailblazer for his dedication to uplifting his community through his work and advocacy.

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Contact Kara Luzik Canale

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Kara Luzik Canale
Kara Luzik Canale
Vice President of Strategy and Chamber Impact
717.213.5030

A fourth-generation member of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC, Kara has a deep appreciation of the powerful personal impact of the Chamber’s mission.

Her great-grandfather started a construction business in the 1930s with nothing but a toolbox. The Harrisburg Chamber gave him connections to grow that business into a powerhouse that pulled his family out of poverty, created jobs in his community and improved countless lives. She is energized to continue the Chamber’s vital work today.

Kara joined the Chamber & CREDC staff as Vice President of Operations following nearly a decade in strategic communications agencies. Her life’s work has been giving a voice to those who would otherwise be drowned out, unheard and misunderstood. She has worked on both sides of the aisle of labor and industry, inside state government and political parties, and for community-based nonprofits. She played key roles in opening a casino resort, building a major highway interchange and introducing innovative health care programs.

A lifelong resident of Central PA, Kara is guided by her values of integrity, innovation and grace to make the Harrisburg Region a better place for everyone. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of Visit Hershey Harrisburg and Leadership Harrisburg Area, and on the Marketing Committee for Hospice of Central PA. Previously, she served on the board of directors for Harrisburg Young Professionals where she led the development of the Harrisburg Internship Connection, designed to retain future leaders by helping college students discover Harrisburg through a regional mentorship program. She is a frequent speaker and panelist, addressing audiences on topics including the opportunity-rich Harrisburg Region, her leadership philosophy and inspiring confidence in women.

Kara graduated summa cum laude from Elizabethtown College with a B.A. in corporate communications and a minor in political science. She is a recipient of the Association of Chamber of Commerce’s 40 Under 40 award, the Central Penn Business Journal Forty Under 40 award, and an inaugural recipient of Harrisburg Young Professionals’ 20 in Their 20’s award. She was named a Foundation’s Finest young professional for her work with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Her work in strategic and crisis communications has received accolades from the Central PA Public Relations Society of America, Pennsylvania Public Relations Society and International Association of Business Communicators.

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Scott Rogers
Scott Rogers
Vice President of Finance and Administration
717.213.5039

Scott Rogers has served as the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC’s Director of Finance for nearly 10 years. Prior to the joining the Chamber, Scott served as Controller for the Pennsylvania Automotive Association, and as Chief Financial Officer at Pennsylvania Newspaper Association. Scott also spent 10 years specializing in providing audit services to local not-for-profit organizations with KPMG.

Scott’s skills as a Certified Public Accountant help him manage all aspects of the Chamber’s accounting and finances. Scott also serves as the Chamber’s Human Resources Manager. Scott prides himself on being able to find answers to any questions our members may have.

Scott is a graduate of the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. When Scott is not working at the Chamber, he can be found on the golf course or traveling with his wife, son, and daughter.

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Contact Paige Shope

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Paige Shope
Communications and Marketing Manager
717.213.5046

Born and raised in Perry County, Paige Shope’s educational journey began at West Perry High School and led her to Shippensburg University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Journalism and Media with a specialization in Public Relations, along with a certificate in Graphic Design. During her time at Shippensburg, Paige held leadership roles across campus media, including Managing Editor of The Slate newspaper, Director of Public Relations at WSYC 88.7FM, and World News Anchor for SUTV.

Paige’s deep roots in Central Pennsylvania inspire her dedication to telling the region’s stories. Her connection to the people, places, and traditions of Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry counties fuels her mission to highlight the region’s economic growth, cultural depth, and community potential. She believes that by telling these stories well, she can help build pride among residents and elevate the Harrisburg region.

In addition to her professional work, Paige is actively involved in organizations that support communications and regional development. She serves as Treasurer of the Pennsylvania Public Relations Society (PPRS), is a member of the American Marketing Association’s Central Pennsylvania Chapter (AMA-CP), and belongs to Harrisburg Young Professionals (HYP), where she joins fellow civic-minded professionals in advancing the future of the region.

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Contact Melissa Stone

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Melissa Stone
Vice President of Economic Development
717.213.5042

Melissa serves as the Vice President of Economic Development for the Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), the economic development arm of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber.  In this leadership role, Melissa oversees her organization’s economic development goals and efforts for the three county region of Cumberland, Dauphin & Perry counties and the CREDC staff, which focus on the intersection between economic development and workforce development, business retention, expansion and attraction, business financing activities and administration of public grant funding.

Professional Background:  Melissa began her career in economic development in 2006 as CREDC’s Business Finance Officer after spending 10 years in banking.  During a brief detour from economic development, Melissa created the small business underwriting department for Graystone Tower Bank which supported the company’s footprint of 50 small business lenders and later served as AVP and Regional SBA Business Banker for Susquehanna Bank.  She returned to CREDC in 2012 advancing into her current leadership role.

Education: Melissa graduated from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1992. She obtained the professional certification of EDFP (Economic Development Finance Specialist) in 2015 after 160 hours of training and a series of 4 certification exams.

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Contact Ryan Unger

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Ryan Unger
President & CEO
717.213.5020

Ryan Unger joined the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC in July 2021 as President & CEO, bringing with him over 20 years of community and economic development experience on the local, regional, and state levels.

Ryan provides vision and strategic direction for the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC, including responsibility for all administrative and management functions and executing the overall mission of the organization. Ryan directs the organization’s strategic and operating planning in conjunction with the Chamber & CREDC Board. Ryan strongly believes in serving as a champion and advocate for our region and its business community.

Prior to joining the Chamber & CREDC, Ryan served as the CEO of Team Pennsylvania, the commonwealth’s public-private partnership for economic and workforce development, consisting of business and government leaders, chaired by the Governor. During his time there he participated in business development mission trips in the United States, Europe, and South America. While at Team Pennsylvania, Ryan led the organization in the development of nationally recognized research and policy around agricultural economic development and petrochemical manufacturing.

Ryan’s experience in regional economic and community development includes time spent at SEDA-Council of Governments based in Lewisburg, PA, and the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce based in Shamokin Dam, PA.

Nationally, Ryan serves as a member of the Association of Chamber of Commerce (ACCE) Executives Board of Directors. ACCE includes over 9,000 professionals who work for and with more than 1,600 chambers of commerce. He is also a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Committee of 100. This group of 100 local and state chamber executives advises the U.S. Chamber’s board of directors, enhances lobbying and coalition work, recommends programming, and strengthens outreach to the business and chamber communities.
Locally, Ryan currently serves on the board of advisors for Harrisburg Young Professionals, as chair of the Advisory Board for the Historic Harrisburg Association, and a Board Member for the United Way of the Capital Region. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Harrisburg and the Friends of Midtown. He serves on the Penn State Harrisburg Board of Advisors and is a Community Impact Advisor for Harrisburg Area Community College. In 2022, Ryan was appointed by Governor Wolf and confirmed by the Senate as a Commissioner on the State Farm Show Commission. The Commission guides the operations and maintenance of the PA Farm Show, the largest indoor agricultural event in the nation.

In 2022 Ryan was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award by the Department of Communications at his alma mater, Elizabethtown College. Ryan is the past president of Elizabethtown College’s Alumni Council and currently serves on the College’s Board of Trustees & Executive Committee.

When Ryan is not at the Chamber or meeting with local officials or businesses, you can spot Ryan walking his rescue doodle Harrison along Riverfront Park in Harrisburg, eating at any (or all) of the great food stands at the Broad Street or West Shore Farmer’s Market, hiking throughout the region, or cheering on Penn State during fall Saturdays. He resides in midtown Harrisburg.

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Anita Weikel
Anita Weikel
Lending Officer, Economic Development
717.213.5036

Anita joined the CREDC team in February 2023, with experience with International Analyst work at HARSCO and residential mortgage lending for various mortgage companies in the region. Anita has extensive experience in relationship management and has worked with small business owners as they purchased homes.

Anita joined the Chamber & CREDC staff as the Economic Development Lending Officer where she will manage the loan programs and loan portfolios, enhance pipeline growth, and nurture client relationships while helping to elevate the potential of the tri-county region of Cumberland, Dauphin, & Perry.

Professional Background: Anita brings nearly two decades of valuable experience from both the public and private sectors. Her background consists of working in different areas such as workforce development, c-suite administration, international Treasury and credit, as well as many lending areas including processing, production assistance, and origination. Anita has developed a solid reputation for excellent client service and customized financing solutions. Her love of helping others through knowledge, a hand UP, and the potential to improve the overall way of lives in our community has brought her full circle back to the public sector.

Education: Anita earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Pittsburgh and then went on to complete a Master of Public Administration at Shippensburg University. Due to her continued education, she is also a Graduate Fellow of the Education Policy and Leadership Center and holds a certificate from the New York Institute of Finance.

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Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC 3211 North Front Street, Suite 201
Harrisburg, PA 17110-1342
717.232.4099

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