Story by Joycelyne Fadojutimi/www.infinitieplusmag.com 

Lisa Morgan’s story begins where so many strong stories do at home, around a dinner table, under the steady example of parents who believed in showing up. 

“My parents taught me early,” she says. “Always show up, work hard, be kind and let your faith guide you.” 

That is not all. 

Her parents, Leonard and Linda Morgan just didn’t say those words. They lived them. Her father worked long stretches in the oil fields, often out of town, doing whatever it took to provide. Lisa’s mother worked full time too, yet somehow there was always a home-cooked meal waiting, and never a missed game in the stands. 

Lisa has two sisters who are 11 and 13 years older. Hence, she grew up in the sweet spot, young enough to be doted on, old enough to absorb the lessons unfolding around her. While her sisters stepped into adulthood, she soaked up just a little extra spoiling, and a lot of love. 

Furthermore, their closeness only deepened after losing their dad to cancer in 2019. Out of grief, they built a tradition: the annual “Mama Daughters” trip. 

“It’s our time to do absolutely nothing but soak up the sun and have dinner together each night. I look forward to it every single year,” Lisa said. 

Family is the thread that runs through every chapter of Lisa’s life. Her fiancé, Randy Richardson, stands firmly beside her. He is her biggest supporter and, as she laughingly puts it, frequently, Randy is “voluntold” into service at Chamber events. In the oilfield industry, his daily uniform is overalls and FRs. But when the Chamber calls ; “He never complains when it’s time to trade them in for a sports coat and starched pants.” 

Then there’s her daughter, Alyssa Richardson, who doesn’t just attend events, she jumps in to help. 

According to Lisa, “Watching Alyssa engage in the community I love so much makes it even more special.” 

And at the center of it all is her sweet three-year-old granddaughter, Hazely Herrington, a joyful reminder of why the work matters. 

It is important to note; Lisa’s work isn’t just a job. It’s a calling. 

In December 2025, she stepped into the role of Executive Director of the Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce. In addition, her Chamber journey began long before that. 

Back in 2010, during the recession, Lisa was laid off from Wells Fargo Advisors. It could have been a setback. Instead, it became a doorway. Her boss, Dave Spurrier, connected her with Kelly Hall, President/CEO of the Longview Chamber of Commerce. 

“I met with Kelly, was hired that very day, started the following Monday,” Lisa said. “And, I have never looked back.” 

Kelly didn’t just offer her a job. She invested in her future. Lisa immersed herself in professional development, completing three years in the Certified Chamber of Commerce Executive program and three years with the Western Association of Chamber Executives (WACE). Through WACE, she earned entry into the prestigious Institute for Organization Management at the third-year level of its four-year program. 

Membership. Events. Accounting. Branding. Strategy. 

“I’ve truly done all things chamber related, she said.” 

Now, as Executive Director, her vision is clear. 

“The Chamber should be a true resource, helping businesses succeed, grow, and thrive.” 

Since stepping into leadership, she has focused on revamping communications and events, ensuring consistent branding and meaningful value for members. Behind the scenes, initiatives are taking shape. Moreover, strategic plans are being designed to strengthen businesses and elevate opportunity across the region. 

Best of all, she  doesn’t do it alone. Business Development Manager Char Hampton joined the Chamber this year, bringing a former member’s perspective to the table. 

“Working alongside someone who shares the same passion and vision has been incredibly rewarding,” said Lisa. 

Together, and in collaboration with city partners, they are laying the groundwork for thoughtful growth and long-term economic development. 

“Collaboration is key. That’s how we position our community for lasting success.” 

For Lisa, this isn’t just professional, it’s personal. 

Kilgore is home. It is where she was born. Kilgore is where she was raised. Kilgore is where her roots run deep. 

“It’s an honor and a privilege to be part of the momentum shaping the City of Stars’ future.” 

When she’s not championing businesses or organizing events, she’s traveling, making memories with family, and chasing new adventures. She guards her work-life balance intentionally. 

“I never want to burn out. I want to keep loving the work I do—and the people I do it with.” 

And if there’s one philosophy that defines her, it’s this: 

“Life is meant to be lived. Experience the joy. Embrace the obstacles. Take the leap. And if you fall—fall forward. Learn from it, adjust, and try again.” 

From oil field grit to Chamber leadership, from daughter to mother to grandmother, Lisa Morgan’s story is one of faith, family, resilience, and relentless forward motion. 

And she is just getting started.