Lee Potter
Last month, Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Southeast Texas announced its newly elected officers, directors, and board chair for 2025.
Lee Potter, president of American Air Systems, Inc., was elected as the 2025 board chair. Potter succeeds Robert Bertrand, who will serve as past chair. Other newly elected and re-elected officers for 2025 includes: April Tolbert, chair elect; Michele Cobb, vice chair; Anthony Toups, treasurer; and Elton Hollis, secretary.
“Our organization has made tremendous strides over the past several years to increase community involvement, brand awareness, and continue collaborative efforts with area organizations and groups,” said Darren Erwin, president and CEO of BBB Southeast Texas. “Our goal is to see the businesses in Southeast Texas prosper while providing honest and ethical products and services to consumers. This ensures the fulfillment of our mission by Advancing Marketplace Trust.”
Potter, a Beaumont native, has been involved in the local business and nonprofit community. As the president of American Air Systems, Inc., he led his company to receive the prestigious Carrier President’s Award four times. Through his community awareness program, AmerAirCares, Potter partners with Carrier to give away a new HVAC system each year. He is actively involved in organizations such as the United Way, Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce, and American Cancer Society. He was awarded the Distinguished Alumnus Leadership Beaumont Award in 2024 and continues to serve as a community leader and advocate.
“It is my honor to serve as board chair in the 2025 year. I’m looking forward to the BBB and its leadership in helping and building all businesses here in Southeast Texas,” Potter stated.
Additionally, several directors were re-elected for a three-year term, including: Tim Baker (Baker Auto Repair), Emily Brackin (Apex Payroll), Jennifer Burch (Best Hospice Care of Texas), Teri Hawthorne (Christus Health Foundation) and Donna Peterson (A-1 Peterson Plumbing).
Jackie Padgett, founder and CEO of Accent Compliance, was also appointed to fill an unexpired term on the board until Dec. 31, 2026. With over 27 years of experience in environmental compliance and inspection services, Padgett has made a significant impact on the energy sector.
