Quarterly Chamber Luncheon

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

Topic: On the Move: Orlando’s Evolving Transportation Landscape

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

• CFX

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.

👉 Register now – space is limited!

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.

Panelists:

Tiffany Hawkins | Chief Executive Officer
Lynx

Tiffany Homler Hawkins is the chief executive officer at LYNX. She has worked with or for the agency for more than 20 years most recently overseeing the planning, marketing, grants and government affairs teams.  With more than 25 years in Central Florida, she also has held positions in the private sector and county government.  A favorite project of Hawkins during her time with LYNX was overseeing the construction of the iconic LYNX Central Station.

She has served as president of the WTS Central Florida Chapter, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando and the Community Hope Center Board of Directors.  Hawkins has a bachelor’s degree in public administration and master’s degree in communications, both from the University of Central Florida.

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

Will Hawthorn | Director of Transportation Planning and Policy
Central Florida Expressway Authority

With over 20 years of experience in civil engineering, Will Hawthorne currently serves as the Director of Transportation Planning and Policy at the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX). In this role, Will is responsible for the development of the agency’s Master Plan and the 5-year work plan, ensuring the strategic direction and growth of the CFX system. He provides oversight of all planning studies conducted throughout CFX’s extensive five-county jurisdiction, helping shape the transportation landscape of Central Florida. Will also works closely with elected leaders at the local, state, and federal levels to align policy with CFX’s planning initiatives, ensuring that transportation infrastructure keeps pace with the region’s growth.
 
Throughout his career, Will has demonstrated a commitment to leadership and community service. He has held several prominent positions, including Chairman of the Technical Advisory Committee for the Orlando Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in 2019, Chairman of the Winter Garden Planning and Zoning Board, and served on various community organizations. His ability to navigate complex technical and political landscapes has made him a respected figure in the field of transportation planning.
 
A proud graduate of the University of Central Florida (UCF), Will earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 2007, followed by an MBA in 2021. He is a registered Professional Engineer in the state of Florida and a member of the Florida Engineering Society. Will also graduated from the Florida Engineering Leadership Institute and is an active member of the American Society of Highway Engineers.
 
In recognition of his professional achievements and leadership, Will was named one of Orlando Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 in 2020, an honor that highlights his contributions to the engineering and transportation industries in Central Florida.
 
Will’s combination of technical expertise, leadership experience, and commitment to public service has made him a key figure in shaping the future of transportation in Central Florida.