HSJC Board of Directors
The Hemet San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Board of Directors represents the diverse business culture supporting the San Jacinto Valley. The Board members are responsible for the strategic guidance and policy governance of the organization.
As local business professionals and dedicated community leaders, each Board member is committed to the well-being, support, and growth of our businesses and community.
Koka Lakshman
Koka Lakshman
Director
About Koka
Bio Coming Soon
Denis Argurllo
Denis Argurllo
Co-Vice-Chair
About Dennis
Meet Dennis Arguello: Championing Local Growth
As the CEO of Go Further Group and Co-Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors for the Hemet San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce, Dennis Arguello is deeply invested in our region's economic vitality.With business roots stretching back to 2003, Dennis understands the unique challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. Alongside his co-founders, he established Go Further Group specifically to service and elevate small and medium-sized businesses. This vision directly mirrors the core mission of the Chamber itself: to provide the foundational support, resources, and advocacy necessary for all businesses in the valley to thrive.Dennis believes that when local businesses succeed, the entire community flourishes. Whether through Go Further Group or his leadership within the Chamber, he remains dedicated to building a stronger, more connected, and prosperous business community in the Hemet and San Jacinto Valley.
Ben Sandoval
Ben Sandoval
Economic Development Director
About Ben
Benigno (Ben) Sandoval is a visionary leader in economic, community, workforce development, bringing over two decades of expertise to his role as the Economic Development Director for the City of Hemet. Ben is widely recognized for his ability to synthesize complex market data into actionable growth strategies, most notably through the creation and execution of the Hemet RISES strategic plan. This landmark initiative serves as the city’s roadmap for economic revitalization, focusing on business retention, infrastructure investment, and sustainable urban prosperity.With a career built at the intersection of Business Administration, Public Relations, and Economic/Workforce Development, Ben excels at bridging the gap between municipal government and the private sector. He has served as a strategic advisor to thousands of businesses, ranging from emerging startups to large-scale enterprises. By leveraging deep insights into Labor Market Information (LMI) and evolving industry trends, Ben provides the tailored solutions necessary for businesses to thrive in a competitive global landscape.Ben’s leadership is defined by a commitment to results. His success in securing award-winning funding for city projects is a testament to his ability to align local needs with broader economic opportunities. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in Public Relations from California State University, Dominguez Hills, and is a Certified Economic Developer through Fresno State University.As a dedicated advocate for the Hemet community, Ben continues to champion initiatives that empower local entrepreneurs and attract new investment. His career is a masterclass in how strategic foresight, coupled with a proactive community-first approach, can fundamentally transform a region’s economic trajectory.
Dan Goodrich
Dan Goodrich
Board Member
About Dan
Bio Coming Soon
Chuck Champion
Chuck Champion
Board Member
About Chuck
Chuck Champion is a versatile executive leader with a distinguished career spanning economic development, strategic planning, and operational turnarounds within the media, gaming, and consulting sectors. In his role at Paladin Capital Partners, Chuck has spent over a decade as Managing Partner, leading complex M&A, crisis management, and business strategy for major corporations and tribal enterprises. Building on this legacy, he recently founded Paladin 360, LLC, a firm dedicated to providing these same critical strategic services with a primary focus on community-based initiatives and regional economic growth, while continuing to serve his long-standing corporate clientele.Champion’s track record of high-stakes corporate leadership is highlighted by his tenure as Chairman, President, and CEO of Youbet.com, Inc., where he orchestrated a massive turnaround of the public online gaming firm—increasing EBITDA by 130% and stock value by 200%. He later served as Chairman and CEO of ProElite, Inc., restoring fiscal discipline and operational structure to the live entertainment company. In the media sector, Chuck demonstrated his ability to revitalize traditional industries as the President and Publisher of the Santa Clarita Valley Signal, where he modernized content and deepened community trust, and through executive roles at the Chicago Sun-Times and Philadelphia Newspapers, Inc., where he managed $300M budgets and achieved double-digit advertising growth.Driven by a commitment to local stewardship, Chuck has become a cornerstone of civic leadership in the Hemet-San Jacinto community. As Acting CEO and Board Member of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre, he collaborated with the board to implement a vital five-year strategic plan, leveraging the Bowl’s historic and cultural strengths to secure funding for its preservation and the expansion of community offerings. His dedication to regional prosperity is further reflected in his role as a Board Member for the Hemet San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce and his active involvement in service groups such as the Hemet Exchange Club and Hemet Rotary.Chuck’s leadership extends to a broad array of nonprofit and arts boards, including the California News Publishers Association (Past President), the Moorpark College Foundation, and the United Way. His professional expertise is underpinned by advanced executive education from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania (Business Administration, Marketing & Finance) and the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan (Accounting & Finance). Whether navigating the complexities of public markets or fostering local economic initiatives, Charles Ford Champion II remains a steadfast advocate for sustainable growth and community engagement.
Huy Nguyen
Huy Nguyen
Board Member
About Huy
Huy Nguyen – Toyota of Hemet
With over 21 years of experience in the automotive industry, I have built a career rooted in leadership, performance, and community engagement. I began in sales, quickly rising to become a consistent top producer before being promoted to Business Development Director at BMW Encinitas. I later joined Mercedes-Benz of Arcadia, where I spent 16 years holding progressive leadership roles including Business Development Director, New Car Sales Manager, Used Car Sales Manager, and ultimately General Sales Manager.In my final year with the Rusnak Auto Group, I built and led a centralized Business Development Center supporting sales and service operations across 14 luxury brand dealerships. During my tenure, I also worked closely with the City of Arcadia on community initiatives, supporting programs such as Toys for Tots, local animal shelters, and cancer awareness causes.In May 2024, our family took over ownership of Toyota of Hemet, and my wife and I moved our family to the city. Since joining the Hemet community, we have made it our mission to strengthen local partnerships and ensure the dealership remains a valuable, engaged community member. We are proud to call Hemet home and are committed to helping the city grow and thrive through collaboration and service.
Carlos Michel
Carlos Michel
Board Member
About Carlos
Carlos Michel serves as a Board Member of the Hemet San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce and is a dedicated advocate for local business development and economic growth in the Hemet/San Jacinto Valley.Carlos is an 8-year veteran of the United States Army, serving four years on active duty and four years in the Army Reserve. His military experience instilled in him discipline, leadership, accountability, and a mission-focused mindset, principles he carries into his business ventures and community service today.A multi-business owner and entrepreneur, Carlos brings hands-on experience in operations, strategic planning, and customer service. His diverse business background provides him with a practical understanding of the challenges local business owners face and the systems needed to scale sustainably.Before becoming a full-time entrepreneur, Carlos served as an elementary school teacher in the valley. His foundation in education continues to shape his leadership philosophy, with a strong emphasis on mentorship, business education, and ensuring Chamber members fully understand and leverage the benefits available to them.As a Board Member, Carlos is committed to strengthening partnerships, supporting economic development initiatives, and fostering a collaborative environment where businesses can thrive. He believes that strong communities are built through service, integrity, and intentional leadership.
Jorge Calvillo
Jorge Calvillo
Board Member
About Jorge
Jorge Calvillo is the co-owner of J&H Automotive Repair proudly serving the Hemet community since establishing the business in 2009 alongside his brother and business partner, Hector Calvillo. Together, they built their family-owned business on honesty, quality workmanship, and trusted customer relationships.Jorge and his wife moved to Hemet CA in 2004 and have proudly called it home ever since. As a father of three daughters, he is deeply invested in the community where they are being raised. In addition to running the business, Jorge serves as a board member of the local Chamber of Commerce and remains an active supporter of the Hemet community supporting local families and businesses.When you visit J&H Automotive Repair, you’re not just supporting a local business — you’re supporting a neighbor who truly cares.We’d love to welcome you! Stop by and say hello!
Michelle Meade
Michelle Meade
Board Member
About Michelle
For more than 17 years, I’ve proudly served the Inland Empire communities I call home—from Beaumont to Winchester and Redlands to Norco. I don’t just sell homes; I help people find the right place to build their lives.Known for going above and beyond, my goal is to bring calm to the real estate process and make sure my clients feel informed, supported, and protected every step of the way. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a long-term investment, or navigating a complex transaction, I combine strong advocacy with a compassionate approach.I am proud to be a NAR Certified Military Relocation Professional, Accredited Buyer’s Representative, and Certified Real Estate Negotiator. Clients appreciate my responsiveness, local market knowledge, and commitment to delivering a smooth, successful experience from start to finish.
Rafael Arce
Rafael Arce
Board Member
About Rafael
Rafael Arce | California Mortgage Expert, Business Funding & Merchant Processing Specialist With over a decade of experience in the California real estate, mortgage, and financial services industries, Rafael Arce is a trusted advisor to individuals, families, and business owners seeking expert guidance across a broad range of financial solutions. As a licensed mortgage broker and financial services specialist, Rafael combines deep market expertise with a client-first philosophy — guiding clients through every stage of the mortgage process, business funding, and merchant processing with clarity, transparency, and precision.A Southern California native, Rafael brings firsthand knowledge of the local market and a keen understanding of the diverse financial needs of its residents and business community. His approach is rooted in integrity and personalized service, ensuring each client receives tailored solutions — whether purchasing a first home, refinancing an existing mortgage, expanding a real estate portfolio, securing business capital, or optimizing payment processing for their business.Rafael is committed to empowering his clients with honest, informed guidance that supports their long-term financial goals and positions their businesses for sustainable growth.Beyond his financial practice, Rafael serves as a Member of the Board of Directors for the Hemet San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce, where he actively contributes to the growth and vitality of the local business community. He is also an entrepreneur and community advocate passionate about helping others achieve success in both business and life.Outside of his professional endeavors, Rafael is a devoted husband, father, and mentor. When not serving his clients, he can be found traveling with his family, coaching, and building purpose-driven ventures.
Board Member
About Veronica
Seasoned professional bringing extensive experience supporting business growth using strategic financial solutions with a strong foundation in relationship management. I am passionate about helping businesses succeed in every stage. Additionally, I am deeply committed to community outreach and development, through volunteer work and local partnerships I invest time and expertise to strengthen communities creating lasting impacts. I believe strong communities are built through strong businesses and dedicated people.
Veronica Vergne
Veronica Vergne
