Quarterly Chamber Luncheon (October)
Description
East Orlando Chamber Quarterly Luncheon
📅 Date: Tuesday, October 15, 2025
🕦 Time: 11:30 AM – 1:15 PM
📍 Location: Central Florida Expressway Authority Headquarters
4974 ORL Tower Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Join the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce for our highly anticipated Quarterly Chamber Luncheon, featuring an expert panel of transportation leaders discussing the current landscape and future of travel in Central Florida.
This dynamic conversation will feature executives from:
-
Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA)
-
Lynx
-
SunRail
-
Orange County Comptroller, Phil Diamond
Together, they’ll address pressing transportation challenges, highlight ongoing and upcoming projects, and share insights on how mobility is evolving across the region. From airport growth and public transit to infrastructure investment and accountability, this is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the future of travel in Orlando.
Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed, connect with key decision-makers, and engage in one of the most relevant conversations impacting our region today.
Moderator:
Raquel Asa | Senior Director of External Affairs
Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX)
Racquel Asa is the Senior Director of External Affairs for The Central Florida Expressway Authority. Racquel brings more than 20 years of experience in public relations with a customer and community focus to the Senior Director of External Affairs role. She is responsible for developing integrated, comprehensive and strategic engagement to all members of the Central Florida Community. She believes in a community-based approach that focuses on solutions that deliver benefits for all. Prior to joining CFX, Racquel was an award-winning transportation journalist and served as the Chief Client Engagement Officer for an Orland-based autonomous mobility start-up. As a veteran journalist, she was at the forefront of every major transportation development and initiative in Florida, operating as one of the most well-informed sources in the industry. She covered every transformational transportation project and initiative for the region and state whether it was by plane, train or automobile, including the Wekiva Parkway, the Wrong-Way Driving program and Brightline to name a few. Racquel has been recognized by the Orlando Business Journal, Women In Transportation, and Congressional leadership during Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Her advocacy for safer streets and innovative solutions to improve regional mobility align with CFX’s vision to provide a world-class network that drives economic prosperity and quality of life for everyone.
Panelist:
Tiffany Hawkins | CEO
Lynx
Panelist:
Darren L'Appanna | Manager of Air Service & Business Development|
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Darren L'Appanna is a seasoned aviation professional currently serving as the Manager of Air Service & Business Development at Orlando International Airport. His journey in the aviation industry is a testament to his dedication and enthusiasm for the field. Education forms a solid foundation for Darren's career. He holds a Bachelor's of Science in Aviation Management from Florida Tech, where he further honed his skills by earning a Master's of Science in Aviation with a focus on Airport Development & Management.
Darren's diverse professional background includes internships at prominent airports such as Orlando International and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, where he delved into Marketing and Air Service Development. He broadened his horizons with experiences at AECOM in Philadelphia as an Airport Planner, F&E Aerospace in London, where he engaged in business development, marketing, and PR, and an exciting role at the Dubai Airshow in 2013 as the Static Display designer, overseeing the presentation of over 150 aircraft.
Before joining Orlando International Airport, Darren played a crucial role in airport planning at Corgan, an esteemed architecture and interior design firm in Dallas. His work spanned major projects across the United States, China, the Middle East, and Europe, showcasing his global perspective and expertise in the field.
Darren's career trajectory within the aviation sector showcases his commitment and expertise. Starting as a Research Analyst, he diligently worked his way up the ranks, progressing to the roles of Assistant Manager and eventually Manager. His extensive experience has allowed him to contribute significantly to the growth and development of Orlando International Airport.
During his tenure at Orlando International Airport, Darren has been instrumental in driving strategic air service expansion. His efforts have led to the successful addition of at multiple new airlines, an increased number of frequencies, and the establishment of countless new routes. This accomplishment underscores his adeptness in cultivating relationships and enhancing the airport's connectivity.
In addition to his role at Orlando International Airport, Darren currently serves as the Immediate Past President of GBTA | Central and Northern Florida, showcasing his leadership and commitment to advancing the travel and business industry. His involvement in GBTA highlights his dedication to staying at the forefront of industry trends and fostering professional development within the region.
His contributions to aviation were recently recognized with the 2024 AviationPros 40 Under 40 Award, honoring his leadership, innovation, and impact on the aviation industry.
Darren L'Appanna's career is a demonstration to his passion for aviation, coupled with a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience that continues to shape the industry's landscape.
👉 Register now – space is limited!
Event Date:
10-15-25
Event Time:
11:30 AM - 01:15 PM EST
Location:
Central Florida Expressway Authority
4974 Orl Tower Road
Orlando, FL 32807
Contact Person:
East Orlando Chamber of Commerce
Details:
Date and Time
Wednesday Oct 15, 2025
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM EDT
Quarterly Luncheon
3rd Wednesday quarterly (April, June, August & October)
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Location
TBD
Fees/Admission
$45 EOCC Members
$55 Non-members
*No refunds | No walk in's
Contact Information
East Orlando Chamber
Send Email