The Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority (SMTDA) has asked the Blount County Commission to reappoint Joy Carver and Chad Rochelle to six‑year terms on its Board of Directors, according to a memorandum submitted for the June 24, 2026 meeting. Two additional candidates — Cassie Halley and Carmen Simpher — were provided as alternates should commissioners choose to appoint different representatives.
Bryan Daniels, President & CEO of the Blount Partnership, Industrial Board and the Tourism board made the recommendation on behalf of the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority Board.
The Authority’s request notes that both seats are expiring and that candidates are ranked in order of preference. Biographical information for each nominee outlines a mix of small‑business leadership, tourism operations, marketing expertise, and regional civic involvement.
Based on a motion made by Commissioner Steve Mikels the Appointments will be postponed to the September 2026 Commission Meeting in order to give the 12 newly elected commissioners a voice in the vote.
Recommended for Reappointment
Joy F. Carver — Owner, Dandy Lions Gifts (Maryville)
Carver is a lifelong Blount Countian and longtime downtown Maryville small‑business owner. After early retail experience at Proffitt’s Department Store, she pursued education at Baylor University and graduate work at the University of Tennessee, later serving in urban education through ProjectGRAD Knoxville. Returning home, she founded Dandy Lions Gifts, now nearly 20 years old, known for artisan goods, baby items, home accessories, and curated retail offerings. Carver manages marketing, merchandising, customer service, and day‑to‑day operations. She is active in local schools, community events, and downtown development efforts.
Chad R. Rochelle — Owner/Principal Broker, Dogwood Cabins; Parkside Realty Services; Partner, Laurel Valley Resort (Townsend)
Rochelle has lived in Townsend for more than 25 years and operates multiple tourism‑related businesses. He oversees Dogwood Cabins, a vacation‑rental management company; Parkside Realty Services, a full‑service real estate firm; and serves as partner/general manager of Laurel Valley Resort, an 18‑hole golf and lodging destination. His background includes property management, investment real estate, hospitality operations, and community involvement through St. Francis Catholic Church. He holds a psychology degree from McNeese State University.
Alternate Candidates
Cassie Halley — CEO, Company Distilling (Maryville)
Halley is a marketing and operations executive with more than a decade of experience in hospitality, retail, and consumer‑brand growth. She previously served as COO/CMO of Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, overseeing operations, retail, and marketing that generated approximately $4M in annual gross profit. Her earlier career included account management roles with Epsilon and OKRP in Chicago, supporting national brands. Halley joined Company Distilling in 2025, first directing marketing and retail operations and later becoming CEO, where she leads brand expansion, new market development, and cross‑functional strategy.
Carmen Simpher — CEO & Cofounder, Little Arrow Outdoor Resort (Townsend)
Simpher cofounded Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, a destination hospitality property at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Her leadership emphasizes guest experience, sustainable tourism, and community identity. Before entering hospitality, she spent 26 years in the medical field and operated two businesses, bringing a disciplined operations background. Simpher has served on multiple civic and regional boards, including the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, Little River Watershed Association, Blount County Chamber of Commerce, and the Townsend–Cades Cove Gateway Alliance. Her work centers on responsible tourism growth and conservation.
Summary of the Appointment Process
- The Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority submits recommended candidates to the Blount County Commission when board terms expire.
- Commissioners may reappoint the recommended candidates or select alternates provided in the packet. Commission can reject candidates and ask the Tourism Board to reconsider.
- Each appointment carries a six‑year term per the bylaws of the authority.
- Biographical information is supplied to help commissioners evaluate professional background, community involvement, and relevance to regional tourism priorities.
- Final approval occurs during a regular Commission meeting, where members vote on the appointments.