You’ve heard me reference The Chamber’s new fiscal year, which started September 1. As we’ve begun heading into this year, we have exciting plans we can’t wait to share with you.

Voices of Vision
Typically our biggest event of the year is once again upon us. A series we started 10 years ago is certainly a concept that is working for our region. Voices of Vision is consistently sold out and the speaker quality continues to raise the bar.

This year we’ve got a touch down with Peyton Manning headlining the 2019 event. Many members that have already heard Peyton speak say he is bright and witty, and we know he will impart much wisdom—and probably some laughs—when he takes the stage next month. A few arena seats are still left, so we hope you can join us!

Reflections on the Annual Meeting
Last month we hosted our Ninth Annual Meeting, which serves as a celebration of our chamber’s and community’s accomplishments, honors volunteers and recognizes the Legacy Leader. This year was our largest Annual Meeting yet, with 800 attendees. We try to make this event exciting and informative. Rather than a report of financials or voting agendas, it’s truly about shining light on the successes of those who make our region great by sharing the work of our committees and volunteers.

With another record year of membership and events, we’re so proud to represent this community and will keep striving to offer the best programs, events, networking, community advancement, business representation, advocacy and membership benefits.

Find our newest strategic goals on our About page, and a brief recap of some of our proudest accomplishments on this page.

Women Connect
You probably noticed our latest announcement on this month’s cover of The Bridge. We’re excited to welcome another outstanding speaker to the stage for January’s Women Connect event.

Last year, Rachel Hollis rocked the SHAC with our biggest crowd ever— and this year, Marissa Orr is bringing her fresh perspective on women in the workplace to the Delta by Marriott. We believe we have another great plan that has the potential to inspire women in our community.

This program is one that fills a unique niche for our region. Prior to the launch of Women Connect, we took our time to survey if this program had a need in the region, and the answer was a resounding yes. The mission of Women Connect is to bring women together in a unique, courageous forum that will build connections, provide a space to be brave and explore what leadership means both personally and professionally.

Marissa has a message that many have talked about, but in a new, unique way. The reviews of her new book are extremely positive as she tackles diversity and female leadership. Her book is top of the Amazon best-seller lists, and we hope your team can make it out to see her this January. Of course, much more is in the works, so stay tuned to see even more work from our programs, events and membership offerings.

Craig Whitney
President / CEO
The Chamber