Daniel Strauss, DC, dean of the College of Professional Studies at National University – Florida-site, was installed as president of the Pinellas Park/Gateway Chamber of Commerce for the 2018 term during the chamber’s Installation Gala on Jan. 26.

Dr. Strauss has been an active member of the Chamber of Commerce for several years, leading many outreach efforts that bring health care access and awareness to the community. The Chamber of Commerce currently has over 300 members including a local hospital, medical offices and other businesses in Pinellas Park and multiple nearby cities.

“Working with the Chamber of Commerce has helped build recognition for NUHS and expand learning and employment opportunities for students within local non-profit organizations and other health care institutions,” Dr. Strauss said. “As president, I’m looking forward to starting several new initiatives and attracting new members.”

This year, Dr. Strauss plans to restructure the Chamber of Commerce to attract and involve more young business owners along with newer businesses. With input from their members, he will also be leading efforts to update the chamber’s website and logo.

Some of the chamber’s upcoming events include Country In the Park Trade Show in March, which features local businesses and nonprofits, and Back to School: Family Fun Day in August, which helps prepare youth for the upcoming school year.

Dr. Strauss is also chairman of the  Pinellas Park Medical District (PPMD), an award-winning organization that develops opportunities for businesses, students and professionals in the health care field. In recent years, the group has created a scholarship program for students seeking health care degrees. Additionally, Dr. Strauss sits on the board for Vincent House, a local nonprofit that assists individuals with mental illness, and is involved with CASA (Community Action Stops Abuse), a domestic violence center. Both organizations help expose students to a variety of community service opportunities.