Historic leadership appointment positions 31-year-old entrepreneur to lead one of West Tennessee’s leading business organization into its next era of economic development.
JACKSON, Tenn. — The Legacy Chamber of West Tennessee has announced the appointment of Deswick Bonds Jr. as its new Executive Director, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s 27-year history of supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses, and economic development throughout West Tennessee.
At 31 years old, Bonds becomes the youngest Executive Director in the Chamber’s history and joins a new generation of leaders shaping the future of Black chambers of commerce across the United States.
His appointment reflects the Board of Directors’ commitment to strengthening regional business development, expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs, and positioning the Legacy Chamber as a leading resource for West Tennessee business owners, professionals, and community leaders.
“Deswick embodies the direction our Board is committed to—fresh leadership, strong business alignment, and a renewed focus on regional growth. We selected him because he brings the energy, discipline, and clarity needed to guide the Chamber into its next era. We look forward to the opportunities his leadership will create for businesses across West Tennessee.”
— Clarissa Halton-Williams, Board President
Celebrating More Than 25 Years of Business Leadership
Founded in 1999 as the African American Business Coalition, the organization was established to strengthen entrepreneurship, promote economic opportunity, and advocate for minority-owned businesses throughout Jackson and Madison County.
The organization was founded through the vision and leadership of Clarence D. Boone, founding president; Murinell D. Huntspon, founding secretary; Grady Carter Jr., founding treasurer; and Katie Brantley, founding leader.
Over the past quarter century, the Chamber has become a trusted resource for business networking, professional development, advocacy, strategic partnerships, and small business support. As its mission expanded beyond Jackson-Madison County, the organization adopted the name Legacy Chamber of West Tennessee, reflecting its broader commitment to serving businesses across the region.
Today, the Chamber continues connecting entrepreneurs, corporate partners, nonprofit organizations, and civic leaders while creating opportunities that strengthen the regional economy.
Leadership Built on Legacy
Bonds succeeds Don McCorry, whose leadership helped expand Chamber programming, strengthen community partnerships, and increase engagement among businesses throughout West Tennessee.
The transition represents both continuity and renewed momentum as the organization continues building on its strong foundation while preparing for future growth.
(Pictured: Outgoing Executive Director Don McCorry)
A Vision for the Future of West Tennessee Business
As Executive Director, Bonds will lead initiatives focused on expanding Chamber membership, increasing access to business resources, strengthening strategic partnerships, supporting entrepreneurs, and creating new opportunities for businesses across West Tennessee.
His leadership will emphasize collaboration between the public and private sectors while continuing the Chamber’s mission of advancing minority-owned, small, and emerging businesses through advocacy, education, and economic development.
“I am honored to build upon the foundation established before me and serve our business community. Together, we will create stronger connections, expand opportunities, and build an ecosystem where businesses across West Tennessee can thrive for generations to come.”
— Deswick Bonds Jr., Executive Director
About the Legacy Chamber of West Tennessee
The Legacy Chamber of West Tennessee is a regional business organization dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship, economic development, and business success across West Tennessee. Through advocacy, networking, education, strategic partnerships, and business resources, the Chamber empowers minority-owned, small, and emerging businesses while strengthening the region’s economic future.
Business owners, entrepreneurs, corporate partners, and community leaders are invited to become members, attend upcoming networking events, and participate in the Chamber’s signature programs, including the 15th Annual Celebrity Golf Classic.
Learn more, become a member, or register for upcoming events at LegacyChamberWestTN.org.