Three Years, Three Summers, One Purpose: Investing in the Future of Our Chamber

This week marks the completion of my three-year journey through W.A.C.E. Academy, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience. 

For the past three summers, I’ve spent the first few days of August alongside Chamber professionals from across the country, learning, collaborating, and growing as a leader. W.A.C.E. Academy is a high-quality, three-year summer program designed to provide a strong foundation in Chamber management essentials for today’s Chamber executives and professional staff. It encourages you to think differently, lead intentionally, and return home with fresh ideas and renewed purpose. 

For me, Academy has been about much more than professional development. It has been an opportunity to grow so that I can better serve our Chamber, our members, and our community. 

I’ve always believed that one of the greatest investments an organization can make is in its people. When leaders continue learning, the entire organization benefits. I’m incredibly thankful that our Board of Directors has invested in my professional development, and I’ve been equally committed to investing in myself—both professionally and personally. I don’t take that opportunity or responsibility for granted. 

Every class, every conversation, and every new perspective has strengthened something I’ve believed since joining the Chamber: we have so much potential. 

I believe our Chamber can become an even stronger leader in our community—not simply as an organization that hosts events or promotes businesses, but as a trusted partner, an advocate for economic growth, and a place where meaningful connections are made. Reaching that vision won’t happen overnight. It takes consistency, collaboration, and a willingness to keep learning and growing together. 

There’s a quote that has stayed with me throughout this journey: If you build it, they will come. 

To me, that means if we continue building a Chamber that creates value, supports businesses, fosters relationships, and leads with purpose, people will recognize that value. Our current members will continue to see the impact of their investment, and others will want to be part of what we’re building. 

To our members, thank you for believing in us. Your support allows us to continue growing, learning, and finding new ways to serve our business community. We are committed to making your investment meaningful. 

If you’re not yet a member, I hope you’ll take a closer look at our Chamber. We are committed to strengthening our local economy, supporting businesses of all sizes, and creating opportunities that help our community thrive. We’re building with intention, and we’re excited about where that journey is taking us. 

Completing W.A.C.E. Academy isn’t the finish line—it’s simply another step in my journey as a Chamber professional and as a leader. 

I believe our Chamber can become a recognized leader in our community, and I’m committed to helping lead us there. Together with our Board of Directors, our members, and our community partners, we’re building an organization that creates opportunities, strengthens local businesses, and makes a lasting impact. 

The work of the Chamber matters. Investing in people matters. And the confidence our members place in us matters. 

I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful to be part of building the future of our Chamber. 

- Cheri