Our Team
ALI RAUCH
President & CEO
Ali leads the Chamber with energy, vision, and a deep love for community. As President & CEO, she sets the tone for everything the Chamber does - from shaping strategy and driving growth to championing small businesses and creating a culture of connection. Ali brings a fresh perspective and bold leadership to Opelika’s business community, combining big-picture thinking with a passion for people. Originally from Paris, Illinois, Ali holds an associate degree in Communication from Lake Land College and a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Her career spans a wide range of small business roles, where she often wore many hats. Most notably, she served as Director of Marketing at Chicken Salad Chick, playing a key role in scaling the brand from 3 to 160 locations nationwide. Ali leads with excellence in everything she does - constantly raising the bar and challenging the Chamber team to dream bigger, execute smarter, and serve better. Goal-driven and mission-minded, Ali led the charge of the Forward Opelika Capital Campaign - a bold, visionary capital initiative that raised over $2.7 million to fuel economic growth and long-term impact for both the Chamber and the community. Under her leadership, the Chamber has redefined its mission, expanded its reach, and earned national recognition - all while keeping people at the center of everything. When she’s not on the clock, you’ll find Ali curled up with a good book, cheering on her Auburn Tigers or Green Bay Packers, or showing up as Opelika’s biggest fan at community events.
“What's my favorite thing about Opelika? The people - we have a little bubble of the most incredible people in America. Not only are they kind and generous, but they welcome others with open arms and have created a community that is truly one of a kind.”
MACKENZIE POOLE
Vice President
Mackenzie is the steady hand and strategic leader behind the Chamber team, programs, and day-to-day operations. From overseeing internal processes to managing chamber initiatives and producing over 330 events each year, she keeps everything - and everyone - moving forward with purpose. Mackenzie plays a key leadership role in guiding the staff, aligning goals, and making sure the Chamber delivers on its mission with excellence and heart. With a background in hospitality and public administration, Mackenzie brings both professionalism and personal connection to everything she does. Originally from Roswell, Georgia, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Sport, & Tourism Management and her Master’s in Public Administration from Troy University. Prior to joining the Opelika Chamber in 2019, she served in community engagement and student involvement roles for the City of Troy and Troy University. At the Chamber, Mackenzie leads major initiatives such as the REACH Campaign and supports a number of program-related committees, while also serving as the steady presence the staff counts on. Known for her organization, calm confidence, and ability to juggle it all, Mackenzie is the glue that holds the Chamber team together. Outside of work, she loves to travel, catch live music, and enjoy community events with friends and family.
“What I love most about Opelika is that here is always something to do or get involved in like Sno*pelika, On the Tracks, Victorian Front Porch Tour, and Summer Swing.”
ASHLEY COLQUITT
Director of Operations & Engagement
Ashley is the engine behind our operational excellence and member engagement at the Opelika Chamber. As our Director of Operations & Engagement, she manages the Chamber’s financial systems, oversees internal processes, and ensures everything runs efficiently behind the scenes. From onboarding new members to coordinating billing, benefits, and renewals - Ashley is the expert making sure our members are informed, supported, and set up for success. Born and raised in Opelika, Ashley brings over 13 years of business management and customer service experience to the table. She also leads the Chamber’s Ambassador Program, empowering a team of volunteer leaders who serve as the welcoming committee and cheerleaders for our business community. Her attention to detail, love for logistics, and ability to make people feel connected make her an invaluable part of the Chamber’s leadership team. When she’s not at the chamber, Ashley’s soaking up time with her family, cheering on her two kids at their after-school sports, or enjoying Friday night lights at Opelika Bulldog football games!
“I love the small-town vibes where everyone knows everyone and going to Opelika Bulldog football games. Go Dawgs!”
LENZI WOMACK
Director of Marketing, Communications, & Media
Lenzi Womack is the creative force and strategic mind behind the Opelika Chamber’s brand and voice. As Director of Marketing, Communications & Media, she leads the development and execution of the Chamber’s overall messaging, visual identity, public relations, and promotional strategy - ensuring every touchpoint reflects the energy, heart, and professionalism of the Opelika business community. From visual storytelling to social campaigns, website design to event branding, and magazine creation - if you’ve seen it, Lenzi’s likely shaped it. A proud graduate of Auburn University with a degree in Marketing and a minor in Communication, Lenzi brings a unique blend of creativity, high-level vision, and heart to everything she touches. Her professional background includes marketing roles at Chicken Salad Chick and Auburn University’s Alumni Association, where she honed her skills in brand storytelling and meaningful audience connection. Beyond her creative work, Lenzi plays a key role in shaping the Chamber’s strategic direction, elevating internal workflows, mentoring her team, and leading with clarity and collaboration. Originally from the charming town of Scottsboro, Alabama, Lenzi is known around the office (and beyond) for her bright smile, contagious joy, and deep love for people. She thrives on authenticity, building community, and helping Opelika shine. Outside the Chamber, Lenzi’s probably spending time with her people, playing pickleball, or dreaming about something in the future!
"What do I love most about Opelika? It's the people. There's a bond here that feels like family. Everyone supports one another with such intentionality. Plus, the town is just adorable - I feel like we're living in a Hallmark Movie!"
JOEL ALVARADO
Director of Business & Workforce Development
Joel Alvarado is a connector, collaborator, and champion for Opelika’s future. As the Director of Business & Workforce Development at the Opelika Chamber, he leads the charge on building strategic partnerships, supporting local businesses, and developing a thriving talent pipeline for our community. A proud product of Opelika City Schools, Southern Union State Community College, and a 2015 graduate of Auburn University, Joel brings both hometown heart and big-picture perspective to his role. Before joining the Chamber, Joel sharpened his skills in public outreach and strategic communication while working with the State of Alabama’s 529 Plan and later as the communications lead at Baxter. Whether he’s hosting a workforce roundtable or helping a small business navigate growth, Joel is passionate about creating real impact for the people of Opelika. He and his wife, Jenny, are raising their 2 daughters right here in the city they love. And when he's not at work? You might just catch him on stage - Joel’s the lead singer of a 90s cover band called Truck Dog (yes, he's our actual ROCKSTAR).
"My favorite thing about Opelika is the city pride. It’s easy for a city to get wrapped up in the identity of the larger ones nearby. However, even with a powerhouse SEC school in the city right next door, our identity has only strengthened. From the legacy families of Opelika down to the newlyweds who met in college and just couldn’t leave, our city pride runs deep."
SAFFRON KOPPELMANN
Marketing & Events Manager
Saffron is the engine behind many of the Chamber’s most dynamic events and community programs. As Marketing & Events Manager, she turns plans into action - coordinating logistics, timelines, and the countless behind-the-scenes details that make our events shine. Whether she’s leading cornerstone initiatives like 20 Under 40 and Lee County Young Leaders, or executing community favorites like Food Truck Friday, Saffron brings structure, consistency, and a vision to every project. Originally from Miami, Florida, Saffron earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Relations with a minor in Entrepreneurship from the University of Florida. Prior to joining the Opelika Chamber, she worked as the Marketing & Communication Associate for Peaceful Paths Domestic Abuse Network, where she blended mission-driven work with creative outreach. Known for her initiative, organization, and enthusiasm, Saffron helps spread the word about all of the latest happenings with our chamber members! Got exciting updates about your business? Be sure to connect with Saffron to be featured in our chamber newsletters like The Connector! Outside the Chamber, Saffron’s usually exploring new restaurants, experimenting in the kitchen, or soaking up Opelika’s small-town charm.
"People are always willing to stop what they're doing to make sure you feel welcomed into the community. I have never experienced that anywhere else and will never take it for granted."
MARY MORGAN SHOLTER
Member Services Coordinator
Mary Morgan is the heart behind our member experience. As the Chamber’s Membership Services Coordinator, she’s the friendly face (and voice!) making sure each of our members feels seen, supported, and celebrated. From onboarding new businesses to coordinating benefits and answering questions big or small, Mary Morgan brings warmth, attentiveness, and a genuine passion for people to everything she does. Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, Mary Morgan made her way to Auburn University, where she earned her degree in Public Relations and quickly fell in love with the charm of Opelika. She’s a natural relationship-builder with a gift for making others feel welcome and valued - both inside the Chamber walls and out in the community. In her downtime, you’ll likely find her curled up with her latest needlepoint creation or singing along to her favorite country song!
"My favorite this about Opelika is the people and how everyone is always so welcoming!"
SHAY WIMBERLY
First Impression Coordinator
Shay is more than likely the first person you'll meet when you walk through our doors! As the Chamber’s First Impressions Coordinator, she sets the tone for every visitor experience with warmth, hospitality, and an easygoing charm that instantly makes you feel at home. Whether she’s answering your questions, assisting members, or managing room rentals, Shay is the heartbeat of our day-to-day operations. Originally from the close-knit town of Elba, Alabama, Shay brings a deep-rooted love for community and a background in finance to her role. She has a natural gift for connection and a genuine care for people that shines through in every interaction. Outside the Chamber, you’ll often find Shay enjoying the outdoors, making new friends, or soaking up all the charm Opelika has to offer.
"Opelika has the best blend of small-town charm and modern growth - it’s the perfect place to live, work, and grow together."