Meet the Board

Janene Ervin is President of the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce and owner of Aurum Construction, a Buena Vista-based construction company. As Chamber President, Janene helps guide the organization’s efforts to support local businesses, strengthen community partnerships, and promote economic vitality throughout the area. She brings a local business owner’s perspective to the Chamber’s leadership and is actively involved in initiatives that connect businesses with the broader Buena Vista community. Janene is also engaged in community projects and events, reflecting her commitment to the people and businesses that make Buena Vista home.

Jen Cousins serves as Vice President and oversees Social Media for the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce. She is the owner of Hi-Lonesome Boutique in downtown Buena Vista, a distinctive retail shop featuring clothing and curated goods inspired by desert-mountain style, music, travel, and the spirit of adventure. Jen brings her experience as a local retailer and small-business owner to the Chamber, helping promote Buena Vista businesses and connect them with residents and visitors. Her work with the Chamber combines community involvement, business advocacy, and creative storytelling to showcase the people and businesses that give Buena Vista its character.

April Pishna serves as a Director of the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce and is part of the team behind Strange Craft Beer Company BV, located in downtown Buena Vista. Strange Craft BV operates a craft beer and food garden featuring beer from Strange Craft along with food from local outdoor kitchens and a variety of community events and live music. April brings the perspective of a local hospitality and small-business owner to the Chamber’s board. Her experience creating a gathering place in the community complements the Chamber’s work to support local businesses, encourage connection, and contribute to Buena Vista’s vibrant downtown culture.

Dennis Heap serves as a Director of the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce and is Treasurer of Mountain West UAS, a Buena Vista-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting safe and responsible unmanned aircraft systems through education, training, and community engagement. Dennis has been involved in the development of the Buena Vista Drone Training Park and Mountain West UAS programming, which provides opportunities for drone pilots, public agencies, and businesses to learn and explore emerging UAS technology. He brings experience in technology, aviation, and community organizations to the Chamber’s board and contributes to efforts that connect local business and innovation.

Nathan Doty serves as Secretary and leads Tech Strategy for the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce. He is the founder of Ark Valley Systems, a Buena Vista-based IT consultancy providing managed technology services to businesses throughout Chaffee County. Nathan brings extensive technology and small-business experience to the Chamber, helping the organization think strategically about its digital tools, communications, and technology infrastructure. Through Ark Valley Systems, he focuses on proactive technology management and long-term partnerships with local businesses. His combination of technical expertise and local business experience makes him an important resource for the Chamber and its members.

Dan is the Buena Vista Market President at High Country Bank and a multi-generational Buena Vista local with deep roots in the Arkansas Valley. He enjoys building relationships, supporting local businesses, and spending time outdoors. As a Chamber board member, he cares about helping Buena Vista thrive while preserving the small-town character that makes it special.