Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Announces Communications Team Transitions
Two key staff transitions took effect this fall within the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce’s Communications team. Emma Faulkner, previously the organization’s Content Manager, has been promoted to Director of Communications as of August 2025. In addition, Mario Espinoza joined the Chamber as Member Experience Associate in November, bringing fresh energy and member-facing expertise to the department.
These appointments reflect the Chamber’s continued commitment to intentional, relationship-driven communications and member support.
“We are excited to welcome Mario Espinoza to our team. His energy and enthusiasm for community outreach and organizing is an immediate match for the skills required to be successful in the chamber industry. It's clear he has a passion for Boone and the High Country community, which aligns well with the rest of our team. Mario helped create one of the best customer service experiences in our community, at The Cardinal Food & Spirits, and that will make him a natural when it comes to connecting with our members and helping them communicate their objectives.,” said President/CEO David Jackson.
In reflecting on these transitions, Jackson also spoke to the value of Emma’s promotion and her contributions to the Chamber’s communications work.
“Emma Faulkner has earned this opportunity, and we can't wait to see how she enhances her influence on the Chamber's communication strategies and strategic priorities. Emma's insights and vision are already visible across our various communications channels. She guides strategy, creates and directs innovative content, and seeks to tell stories in ways that showcase the best of our community. Emma has inspired our entire team with her continued desire to learn, and add new skills to her portfolio. She values new experiences and ideas and is always eager to apply them the unique stories she creates about our members and High Country community.”
The Chamber’s communications function plays an essential, organization-wide role, shaping how members and the broader community engage with its work. From delivering member marketing benefits and managing crucial touchpoints like newsletters, and social media, to event and program marketing and visual branding, communications ensures consistency and clarity. The department also leads the creation of community-facing press releases, storytelling, and advocacy messaging that highlight key initiatives and strengthen the Chamber’s role as a trusted regional voice.
About Emma Faulkner, Director of Communications
Emma Faulkner is a driven storyteller and community advocate who serves as the Director of Communications for the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. She began her journey with the Chamber in January 2021 as the Communications Intern, taking on more responsibilities as the Content Manager in 2022 and promoted to the Director of Communications in August 2025.
Throughout her time at the Chamber, Emma has made an impact by using relationship-focused communications to highlight key community projects, support advocacy efforts, and elevate workforce development initiatives. She’s also led intentional, creative marketing campaigns and event promotion that have significantly expanded the Chamber’s digital reach. She believes communications should never be boring, and works to make information digestible and engaging for all audiences.
In August 2025, Emma furthered her leadership journey by graduating from NC Rural’s Homegrown Leaders Program. She was sworn in as an NC Public Notary in 2021 for Watauga County, where she currently resides.
When not in the office, Emma enjoys walks on the greenway, cooking, camping and live music. Learn more about Emma here.
About Mario Espinoza, Member Experience Associate
Mario Espinoza joined the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce as Member Experience Associate in November of 2025. He will be working closely with Director of Communications in executing the Chamber’s communications strategy, with a strong focus on member engagement.
Originally a Queens, New York native, Mario came to the High Country in 2018 to pursue a degree in International Business at Appalachian State University. During his tenure at ASU, Espinoza focused on his Spanish language minor by hosting various cultural events with an emphasis on Latino film and music. Mario went on to help organize a student trip to Spain in 2022 before graduating cum laude that same year.
Coinciding with his educational career was a 5-year run with The Cardinal Food & Spirits. Mario worked at the local beloved restaurant in various capacities including operations management, event planning, social media, community outreach, and more. His time in the service industry opened the door to the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce.
When he is not in office, Mario enjoys spending time with his loved ones, updating his record collection, and going for extended walks on the greenway. Learn more about Mario here.