The Team

Helpful, friendly service is a top priority at The Lone Star Convention & Expo Center. We’re known for it! From your first contact, you’ll feel your event is our only event. Let our professional team help you plan every detail. We are always available for your call.

It’s the way we listen to your requests, anticipate your needs, follow-up with each detail, and stay at your side from start to finish that makes the difference for you and your guests. Your success is our success, and your satisfaction is our reward.

Don R. Carpenter Jr. – CFE, Director

Don has more than 25 years experience in the convention and expo industry. He is responsible for the overall operations and management of The Lone Star Convention & Expo Center. Those duties call for him to help plan, direct, and oversee the activities and events held on the property.

Don works closely with clients throughout the planning and implementation of their event.

He is a member and ex-official director of the Greater Conroe/Lake Conroe Area Chamber of Commerce, a Life Member of the Montgomery County Fair Association, president of the Conroe Bay Civic Association, and member of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.

Mark Darsey – Operations Manager

Mark Darsey began his employment with Montgomery County in the Custodial Services Department in 1987, later transferring to Building Maintenance where he was elevated to the position of Assistant Director. Mark moved again to the County Engineers office where he served as an inspector. In 2000 he was named Operations Manager at The Lone Star Convention Center.

Mark’s expertise includes building systems operations and maintenance, as well as grounds preparation for all types of equestrian events. Mark works closely with clients to assure their technical requirements are met as needed for their event.

Terri Strozier – Administrative Assistant to the Director

Terri Strozier has been an employee with Montgomery County for 30 years. She began her career at the County Extension Office in 1980, then transferred to the County Judge’s Office in 1994 where she served as executive secretary to the County Judge until 2001. In 2001 Terri accepted the position of Administrative Assistant at The Lone Star Convention & Expo Center. She has extensive experience in County Administration.

As do Don and Mark, Terri works closely with clients throughout the planning and implementation of their event.

Lisa Stroyne – Director of Food & Beverage Services,
                                      Spectrum Catering

Spectrum Catering is the preferred food and beverage service provider at the Lone Star Convention and Expo Center. Lisa has been associated with the company for more than 12 years. Her career spans more than 25 years in the floral-hospitality business. In addition to her extensive background in catering management, her resume includes owning her own businesses in Pittsburg and Houston, wedding consulting along with working for Walt Disney World as a floral designer in the Fairy Tale Wedding Department. 

She delivers exceptional and quality service and is known for exceeding expectations with a consistent, steady work ethic and enthusiasm. 

Kristi Holguin – Receptionist

A native of Montgomery County, Kristi Holguin joined The Lone Star Convention Center team as Receptionist in 2009 after having been previously employed in the oil & gas industry.

Kristi is an asset to the team, along with her warm and friendly smile, she exemplifies positive customer relations.