The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber announced on Apr. 22 the selection of its 2026 CV Next honorees, a group of individuals recognized for their impact in business, nonprofit organizations, and public policy across the Coachella Valley.
CV Next was launched earlier this year to highlight people who are making significant contributions to the community and demonstrate strong potential for future influence. The program aims to celebrate rising leaders from various industries who are committed to the region’s growth and success.
The list of honorees includes Matt Lokay from Chick Fil A – La Quinta; Erin Hyland from Read With Me Volunteer Programs; Bryan Newman from Pedego Electric Bikes; Emmanuel Martinez from Coachella Valley Association of Governments; Francinni Zabata from Desert Sands Educational Foundation/Desert Sands Unified School District; Roberta Crncic from City of Desert Hot Springs; Sean Smith from Greater Palm Springs Economic Development; Amy Blaisdell from City of Palm Springs; Alison Hendrix from NBC Palm Springs – Univision; Jerremy Sage from JNS Next Creative & Media Hub; Andrew McDuffie from California Bank & Trust; Nick Anziano with Office of Assemblymember Greg Wallis; Ashley Yanez with Office of Assembly Member Gonzalez; Alissa Vatter with Fidelity National Title; Amy Cuen McDuffie with Office of Supervisor V. Manuel Perez; Aaron Espinosa with Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory; David Isen with Desert Rodeo, and Will Dean with Desert Healthcare Foundation. Two additional honorees will be announced soon in partnership with College of the Desert.
The chamber said these individuals were selected after a competitive nomination process based on their leadership, innovation, and commitment to strengthening the community. Honorees will be featured in an upcoming issue of Voice of Business Magazine and formally recognized at the Chamber Honors: Annual Board Installation and Business Awards this June.
Greater Coachella Valley Chamber contributes to economic vitality by promoting tourism and hosting events that connect community members, as outlined on the official website. The chamber also advocates for businesses by providing networking opportunities, educational resources, and supporting pro-business policies at local and regional levels according to its official website. Its reach extends across cities including Cathedral City, Coachella, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Palm Springs, and Rancho Mirage according to its official website.
Additionally, Greater Coachella Valley Chamber fosters partnerships among businesses, government entities, and stakeholders to enhance economic vitality as per its official website, while offering services such as leadership training programs and referral support for member organizations according to its official website.
Through initiatives like CV Next,”GCVCC continues its mission to serve as a catalyst for business growth, a convener of leaders, and a champion for the regional economy—investing in the individuals who will help shape the future of the Coachella Valley.”
