David A. Gardner - Executive Director
davidgardner@tds.net

David A. Gardner accepted the position of the executive director of the Gadsden County Chamber of Commerce in September 2004. David was previously employed by Visit Florida as the director of brand development.  He was responsible for strategic alliances, sponsorships, licensing and branding. David led the management team that created the Florida Tourism brand for the recently established public/private corporation firm to market Florida's $52 billion tourism industry worldwide. Through his guidance, Florida became one of the first destinations to trademark, protect and market a brand successfully. In his last position at Visit Florida, David was in charge of tourism partner economic development for thirty-five North Florida counties with emphasis on the twenty-eight designated rural counties.

Added to David's Chamber responsibilities are his personal commitments to many community and economic development board of directors and programs such as the Gadsden County Development Council, WORKFORCE plus, Tallahassee-Leon County Economic Development Council, Enterprise Zone Program, Opportuntity Florida and the North Florida Fair.

Prior to joining Visit Florida, David was the vice president of World Imports in Atlanta and a co-owner of Fletcher-Cantey clothing stores for fifteen years. He also consulted for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Ford Motor Company and Lear Corporation. Having obtained his degree in finance at Florida State University, David has also given lectures at his alma mater about integrated and strategic marketing.

David lives in Quincy with his wife of twenty-eight years, Noreen. Together they have three children: Guerrin, Lindsey and Gage.

Michelle M. Burdick - Vice President of Membership
michelleburdick@tds.net

Michelle M. Burdick was appointed the vice president of membership in July 2007. She is responsible for membership and communication functions as well as the day to day operations for the Gadsden County Chamber of Commerce.

Michelle brings with her ten years of membership experience and a proven track record in membership growth and retention. She was previously the director of member services with the Professional Insurance Agents of Florida, Inc. in Tallahassee. Throughout Michelle's eight year tenure, the association received several awards for it's extensive membership growth including one recognizing fifty consecutive months of increased growth.

Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from Florida State University. She also earned the Certified Insurance Service Representatives professional designation and is a Florida licensed 4-40 Customer Service Representative.

A resident of Quincy since 2001, Michelle shares a home with her husband of five years, Johnnie (better known as Blue) and her stepdaughter, Emily.