Our Staff

Sandra Lombana Lindquist has 20+ years experience in economic and community development in the New Orleans region. She has worked at several great organizations including JEDCO, Tangipahoa EDF, The Idea Village, and St. Tammany West Chamber. Sandra graduated from the University of Texas and has a master's from Tulane University.

Originally from Columbia, South Carolina, Ashley Hilsman received a BA from Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina with a double major in Visual Arts and Art History before pursuing graduate work at the University of South Carolina. Ashley is also a float captain with the Krewe of Tucks, a board member for New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute, New Orleans Chapter Chair for the University of South Carolina Alumni Association, and a member of the New Orleans Jazz Museum Improvisations Gala Planning Committee.  She enjoys exploring the city's unique spirit and lives in Central City with her husband Win, daughter Elizabeth and 2 dachshunds, Folly & Myrtle.  

Candise moved to New Orleans by way of Seattle in 2009.  After years of working in corporate settings, her interests shifted towards supporting non-profit/community focused programs. Prior to joining the Chamber team, she assisted local public health executives at Second Harvest Food Bank, Louisiana Public Health Institute, Landmark Consulting and Ochsner Health. In her free time, Candise enjoys engaging with local arts and exploring nature across the south.  Candise is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Superior.

Born and raised in New Orleans, Alexis graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing. Since then, she has had the pleasure of working for iconic New Orleans brands like the New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans. Alexis loves living in a city with such a rich, diverse culture and is passionate about the people and businesses who call NOLA home.

Born and raised in New Orleans, Clare is a graduate of Louisiana State University, where she earned a degree in Marketing with a concentration in Sales. With a strong passion for hospitality, she has built her career in New Orleans’ vibrant hospitality industry, including experience at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans. She is deeply committed to contributing to the city she calls home and values the unique culture, community, and collaborative spirit that shape how business is done in New Orleans. She is proud to support local businesses and help preserve the culture that makes the city an exceptional place to live and work.

Kalin is a New Orleans native and communications professional with experience in public sector media, strategic messaging, and community engagement. With a background in city government, Kalin has led and supported a range of initiatives including press conferences, event promotion, and digital storytelling. Passionate about connecting people to resources and opportunities, Kalin brings a creative and detail-oriented approach to every project.