Thank you for following along with our monthly Chamber Camaraderie series, which highlights outstanding and hardworking team members from Chambers of Commerce throughout Massachusetts.
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Introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do at your Chamber of Commerce?
I am in charge of the administration and marketing at the Chamber. Originally from New Bedford, I’ve lived in the Lakeville area for over 30 years. I am married to my best friend, I have 3 adult children and 2 young granddaughters. I graduated from Bryant University where I met my husband.
I’ve been at the Chamber over 5 years after a career as a Vice President at a packaging company. I take care of all the bookkeeping and administrative duties here at the Chamber. I am the Ambassador “mom” to our amazing Ambassador Leadership Team, and I coordinate and plan all the networking events (lunches, business after hours), and work with our president and CEO, Valerie Glynn, to plan and execute our large annual events (Annual Meeting, Golf Open, Elements for Excellence, and Legislative Lunch). I also help run the Community Involvement Council that provides various campaigns to benefit our community (veterans, foster children, food pantries, etc.).
Valerie and I have a wonderful working relationship and I enjoy the camaraderie and ability to bounce ideas off each other for the benefit and success of the chamber and its members.
What made you want to work for the Chamber of Commerce?
After working for the packaging company, I took some time to sub in our local school district which worked well with my need to take care of one of my children’s needs and then to care for my parents before they passed. I realized I wanted to get back into “owning” my job versus filling in as a substitute teacher. Years earlier I had attended Chamber events, so I was aware of what a Chamber offers. I saw the ad for an opening with the Cranberry Country Chamber, applied, and the rest is history!
I love the idea of helping our members and their businesses. I enjoy introducing and connecting people. In this position I am able to perform all the tasks I’ve trained for from administration to the marketing and running of events. I love the variety and the challenges; there is never a dull day!
What do you love the most about the area where you live in Massachusetts?
I love the changing of the seasons (although I’m not a huge fan of temperatures in the 20’s or below). Being able to travel to the ocean, mountains, or city within an hour is ideal. I relish the rich history of this area and easily being able to visit locations that allow me to witness beauty in nature or in museums, festivals, etc.
Why do you think it’s important for everyone to be a member of a Chamber of Commerce?
Different chambers provide a wide variety of opportunities to members along with offering legitimacy to their organization. In addition to business support, some chambers act as tourism centers for their community which helps drive tourists to their local businesses. But overall, Chambers of Commerce provide chances for businesspeople to expand their reach. A Chamber affords the opportunity to meet others in their community through networking events. Most people prefer to do or recommend a business with whom they like and trust. These get-togethers offer that occasion to get to know members in a relaxed setting.
Secondly, Chambers provide resources for businesspeople to obtain professional and personal growth through educational seminars and legislative events. Chambers partner with local and state agencies that assist companies from grant writing to support in opening or growing a business.
Finally, as a member, through the member dues, a business provides the conduit for which a chamber CAN offer support to other members, the community (through fundraisers for scholarships and organizations that need help, etc.), and their own staff members.
What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
Make EVERYONE feel welcome.
If you weren’t in your current position, what would your next dream job be?
This IS my dream job!
When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?
I love spending time with my family; I adore my granddaughters and I have no problem spending hours on the floor playing games, coloring, etc. with them. During my alone time, I enjoy reading and crossword puzzles. I love the beach and sitting by my pool with my husband, family and friends.
Is there anything else you would like to share about the Chamber?
I was recently thinking about what it is about our Chamber that makes it so special. I believe it is that our staff, ambassadors, board of directors, and the members who truly care about each other. I’ve witnessed events where our members have come up to me to ask who they can introduce others to in order to help them connect. There is a genuine desire to help our business community, and I enjoy providing these opportunities, working daily to develop new campaigns, new, different, and fun events, and provide introductions for members to expand their reach and connections.
Thank you for sharing more about yourself! Tell us how we can get in touch with your Chamber of Commerce or find it online.
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