MARTHA'S VINEYARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TEAM
ERICA ASHTON
executive director
Erica Ashton brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to community engagement in her role as Executive Director of the Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce.
With a distinguished 20+ year career in media and advertising sales, Erica has most recently served as VP, Head of Sales at The Arena Group, representing Parade, Sports Illustrated, Men’s Journal, and TheStreet. After fulfilling a lifetime dream to live on Martha’s Vineyard, she and her husband purchased a home in 2015 and moved to the island full-time in 2019, Erica has been dedicated to giving back to the island she loves. Residing in Edgartown with her husband, Chef Jon Ashton, and their beloved labradoodle, Eleanor Rigby, Erica is passionate about supporting local businesses and enhancing the economic vitality of the community she cherishes.
As an avid traveler, she’s excited about promoting Martha’s Vineyard globally as a premier destination. Outside of work Erica loves yoga, tablescaping, and gardening.
ALESSANDRA HAGERTY
deputy director
Alessandra Hagerty brings over 15 years of advertising sales and marketing experience to her role as Deputy Director, along with a profound appreciation and love for the Island community. Prior to joining the Chamber, she held key positions at the Vineyard Gazette Media Group, The Knot Worldwide, and WeddingWire. Alessandra notably launched the annual Martha's Party Wedding + Event Conference for Martha's Vineyard Island Weddings magazine in May 2023.
Having spent her summers on Martha's Vineyard, Alessandra returned to live on the island year-round in 2013. She resides in Edgartown with her husband, two children, and their Vizsla, Archie. Alessandra actively contributes to the community by serving on the boards for both the Edgartown Board of Trade and Martha’s Vineyard Youth Lacrosse. Passionate about local businesses and community vitality, Alessandra is dedicated to promoting Martha’s Vineyard as a premier destination.
CAROL WARD
information specialist
Responsible for greeting visitors, answering phone calls, emails and general help around the office. Carol's friendly nature and extensive island knowledge come in handy in any situation!
MARTHA'S VINEYARD BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Greg Orcutt, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity & West Tisbury FinCom
Board of Directors
Delos "Dee" Lander, Senior Vice President, Rockland Trust
Erik Hammarlund, Attorney, Hammarlund Law Office
Sandy Ray, Principal (retired), Martha's Vineyard Insurance
Barbara Ronchetti, Proprietor, Island Alpaca Co. & M.V. Sales and Rentals
Del Araujo, Owner, Aquila
Geoffrey Freeman, Airport Director, Martha's Vineyard Airport
The Chamber is delighted to introduce you to our amazing volunteer ambassadors:
Joanna Fairchild, The Vineyard Life Brokered by eXp Realty
Tim Lowe, Martha's Vineyard Bank
Sarah Hughes, Marsh McLennan Agency
Ralph Pirozzi, ResortMan, Experience Martha's Vineyard - Tours & Transport
Teri Pirozzi, ResortMan, Experience Martha's Vineyard - Tours & Transport
David Hannon, David Hannon Fine Arts
Heidi Feldman, proprietor Down Island Farm and MV Sea Salt