Don't Think of it as Retirement

It’s not easy to make the decision to retire, and I have struggled with it for more than a year.  However, since I believe the chamber would benefit from fresh leadership, I have made the decision to retire, with a final work date of Sept. 28.

In the past five years, we transformed this organization from an events management organization into one that focuses on workforce development and building strong relationships between business and education. We have taken two very different chambers that merged in 2005, and made them one. We closed an office, jettisoned several  events that were draining our finances and energy, improved office technology and the chamber’s Internet presence, increased the chamber’s profile in the community and streamlined office operations. We developed policies and procedures, building a stronger organizational framework. We have added programs and benefits, and built new relationships. I feel good about what we have accomplished together!

I am especially pleased with the highly professional and exceptionally savvy people we have recruited for the board of directors in the past several years. I have confidence in their ability to choose a new chamber CEO.

Under President Paula Langteau’s leadership, the search and screen committee will need time to begin a national search (as was done in 2007),  identifying the educational, professional and personal characteristics of the next director.

I’ve enjoyed having the opportunity to serve the chamber and the community. It has been a fascinating experience and I have learned a great deal from it.

But I'm ready to spend more time with my family, especially my husband, who is also retiring on Sept. 28. I have a family commitment to honor, and I want to do more reading, cooking, writing, traveling, maybe some teaching and yes, maybe more working, but in a different area.

I look forward to continuing to work toward the chamber’s success in the next 90 days and beyond.