Team

Allen Johnson is a seasoned Sales, Marketing, and Business Development executive with broad experience across hardware, software, consulting, and laboratory services organizations. He has led high performing teams across all levels of the organization—both within and across companies—ranging from emerging enterprises to Fortune 50 firms. Allen has a proven track record of developing and executing strategies that deliver successful product solutions, market expansion, and client growth. His areas of expertise include market analysis, cross functional team leadership, strategic and tactical planning, content development and delivery, partner development, and C suite and board level engagement. Known for his ability to distill complex concepts into clear, business focused insights, Allen is an accomplished communicator equally effective in one on one and large audience settings.

Kathy Marullo is a seasoned banking professional with extensive experience in the financial services industry, having spent multiple years with Texas First. She brings a strong understanding of financial operations alongside a deep commitment to economic growth and community development in Hitchcock. Kathy has been an active advocate for the community through her service on the Hitchcock Chamber of Commerce board and the Hitchcock ISD Education Foundation. In these roles, she has championed initiatives that support local business development, educational advancement, and long term community prosperity. Her passion for thoughtful city expansion is reflected in her ongoing efforts to promote sustainable development and foster collaboration between residents, businesses, and local leadership. With a proven track record of leadership, engagement, and advocacy, Kathy Marullo remains dedicated to driving positive change and contributing to a thriving economic and community environment for Hitchcock.

Hon. Christopher Armacost is the current Mayor of Hitchcock and serves on numerous Boards of different Hitchcock organizations. Chris has worked for the Hitchcock Independent School District for over 20 years and is currently Assistant Superintendent.

Phillip D. Palmer is a dedicated community leader, entrepreneur, and experienced professional with a diverse background in business management, community engagement, event coordination, and organizational development. As a business owner and former restaurant operator, he brings firsthand experience in entrepreneurship, strategic planning, business operations, and building meaningful community partnerships. Palmer holds an Associate of Arts in Psychology from College of the Mainland and completed his Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Houston–Clear Lake. His professional experience includes leadership roles in higher education, nonprofit organizations, and community development initiatives throughout Galveston County. As a member of the Hitchcock Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors, Palmer is committed to supporting sustainable economic growth, attracting new businesses, strengthening existing enterprises, and creating opportunities that enhance the quality of life for Hitchcock residents. He believes that strong communities are built through strategic investment, collaborative leadership, and a shared vision for progress. Palmer is passionate about helping Hitchcock grow while preserving the community values that make the city unique.

Josh Dearing is an Overhead Service Consultant with CenterPoint Energy focusing on providing power to new customers and enhancing the resiliency of existing power facilities throughout the electrical system. Prior to joining CenterPoint Energy, Josh Dearing served as an Economic Development professional for approximately 8 years for two municipalities. During his role in Economic Development, Josh Dearing performed numerous responsibilities including Strategic Planning, Comprehensive Planning, development and oversight of multiple grant programs, execution of a Livable Centers Study through the Houston-Galveston Area Council, execution and tracking of Chapter 380 agreements as well as continued business support and recruitment. Josh Dearing also performed many City Planner responsibilities such as tracking of special districts such as MUD and TIRZ districts. Mr. Dearing obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and obtained the Professional Community & Economic Developer certification from the Community Development Council through the Community Development Institute. Mr. Dearing believes that his professional experience and commitment to business support and growth will allow for valuable insight and contribution to the Hitchcock Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors.

Jack Click is a respected community and financial services leader and a former President and Chief Executive Officer of Associated Credit Union of Texas. He also served as President of the Board of the Hitchcock Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) from 2019 to 2025, providing strategic leadership and guidance during a period of significant community focus and growth. Jack is widely known for his ability to connect people and build strong, lasting relationships throughout the community. His commitment to service is reflected in his involvement with numerous corporate, civic, and charitable boards, where he has consistently supported organizational excellence and community advancement. A lifelong connection to Hitchcock, Jack grew up in the community and remains deeply rooted there; his mother is a current resident. He is a proud graduate of Hitchcock Independent School District, Class of 1979, and continues to demonstrate a strong personal and professional dedication to the place he calls home.

Lance LaCour serves as Executive Director of the Hitchcock Economic Development Corporation (HEDC), bringing more than 34 years of experience in city, county, and regional economic development leadership. He has held senior executive roles across multiple states and has a deep track record of driving sustainable growth, investment, and job creation. Prior to joining HEDC, LaCour served as Director of Economic Development for the City of Granbury and spent 16 years as President and CEO of the Katy Area Economic Development Council. His career also includes 14 years of economic development experience across Alabama and Mississippi. Throughout his tenure, he has played a key role in creating tens of thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in economic development investment. LaCour is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master’s degree in Economic Development from the University of Southern Mississippi. His contributions to the profession have been recognized with numerous economic development awards. A native of New Orleans, LaCour has two grown children and brings the same discipline and competitiveness from his personal pursuits into his professional work. He is a former national racquetball champion, an award winning triathlete, and an avid saltwater angler.

Casey Schoen serves as the Administrative Assistant for the Hitchcock Economic Development Corporation (HEDC). She brings more than 30 years of administrative experience, gained through a variety of roles within the education sector. In her position with HEDC, Casey is committed to providing dependable support to the organization and fostering positive relationships with both current and prospective business partners. A lifelong resident of Hitchcock, Casey graduated locally in 1990 and has deep roots in the community. She cherishes the memories of growing up in the area and is enthusiastic about being part of Hitchcock’s continued growth and progress toward its full potential. Outside of work, Casey values time spent with her large family and especially enjoys weekends filled with what she fondly describes as the “calming chaos” of her many grandchildren.