The 麻豆精选 Chamber of Commerce has finalized its Top 40 honourees. Over the next few months, biographies and photos of the honourees will be announced.
Be sure to follow 麻豆精选 for updates on who鈥檚 who in the Top 40.
RACHEL CLARIDA
Rachel Clarida is the Owner and Principal Registered Interior Designer (RID) at Hatch Interior Design Inc., a 麻豆精选-based firm specializing in commercial interiors. She holds a Bachelor of Architectural Science from Toronto Metropolitan University and became a RID in 2007 after completing the NCIDQ certification.
Under Rachel鈥檚 leadership, Hatch has grown from a solo venture into a collaborative, full-service interior design studio. Her mentorship-driven leadership style supports designers at every level鈥攑roviding clear guidance for junior team members and strategic autonomy for senior designers. This approach has helped foster a strong, skilled, and engaged team.
Rachel is also deeply committed to advancing the interior design profession. She co-founded the Okanagan Chapter of the Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia (IDIBC), has served on both provincial and national boards, and regularly mentors students through practicums and guest instruction. Her advocacy work has strengthened awareness of the value of Registered Interior Designers and helped build trust among clients, contractors, and municipalities.
Rachel鈥檚 career reflects a balance of creativity, leadership, and community impact. Through her work at Hatch and beyond, she continues to shape spaces that support business success while contributing to the growth of her profession.
DR. SUZANNE DEGNER
With a unique background in both nursing and dentistry, Dr. Suzanne Degner brings a compassionate and patient-centered approach to her practice. She is the founder and sole owner of Love It Dental, where she blends clinical expertise with a warm, supportive leadership approach. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with distinction from the University of Alberta (1995) and a Doctor of Dental Surgery with distinction from the University of Western Ontario (2003). Since 2003, she has been a member in good standing with the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta, and more recently, the College of Dental Surgeons of British Columbia, as well as the Edmonton and District Dental Society.
Her practice philosophy emphasizes team cohesion and positivity, creating a dynamic, patient-focused environment. Suzanne is also an engaged community member, currently raising $30,000 for the Central Okanagan Hospice Association (COHA) through her participation in Swinging with the Stars 2025. In addition to her professional achievements, she is a proud mother of four, a marathoner, Canadian national slalom waterski champion, and lifelong cellist, having performed alongside Tom Cochrane. Her volunteer efforts span local and international communities, including medical-dental missions to Ecuador, Guatemala, and Honduras.
DR. JACK GORDON
Dr. Jack Gordon is a dedicated general dentist and part-owner at Care Dental Pandosy Village in 麻豆精选, BC, where he also practices at the Banks Road location. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Alberta in 2010, following a Bachelor of Biological Sciences with a minor in Chemistry. His early academic journey began at Mount Allison University and reflects a lifelong commitment to science and healthcare.
Jack is passionate about continuing education and has completed extensive training in a wide range of clinical areas鈥攊ncluding orthodontics, sleep apnea treatment, dental implants, and oral surgery. This ongoing development allows him to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care to his patients and lead innovation within the practice. At Care Dental, Jack has helped grow the orthodontics program and played a key role in launching the new Pandosy Village clinic and its in-house digital lab. This facility now fabricates custom night guards, orthodontic retainers, dental implant surgical guides, porcelain and zirconia crowns and bridges, enhancing patient outcomes and clinic efficiency.
Jack鈥檚 collaborative leadership style, clinical excellence, and focus on teamwork have made him a trusted and respected figure within his practice and the broader dental community.
TASCHELEIA MARANGONI
Tascheleia Marangoni is a visionary leader, artist, and advocate for the performing arts and social impact. With a diverse background spanning dance, nonprofit development, and business strategy, she has dedicated her career to fostering creativity and community. As the Executive Director of the Central Okanagan Performing Arts Festival, Tascheleia has revitalized the organization, securing key sponsorships and expanding opportunities for young artists. She also serves as Director of Business Development for the S.H.A.R.E. Society, leading social enterprise initiatives that support poverty reduction, employment accessibility, and environmental sustainability.
A classically trained dancer since 1978, Tascheleia鈥檚 career includes founding Mosaic Dance (Edmonton) and Worldbeat Dance & Art (麻豆精选), along with a memorable role as Lead Dancer on the Food Network鈥檚 Family Restaurant. She is also the founding Executive Director of PMDA, a nonprofit supporting families affected by postpartum depression.
Tascheleia鈥檚 contributions to arts and advocacy have earned her the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. Passionate about mentorship and community building, she is the President-Elect of the Rotary Club of 麻豆精选. Her impact spans local and national initiatives, always guided by her motto: La Dolce Vita鈥攍iving life with passion, purpose, and artistry.
