The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Business Summit will be the largest and best-attended in the 89-year history of the organization. The excitement of great speakers combined with the opportunities found when business, industry, healthcare, banking, education and government leaders come together continues to draw West Virginians eager for progress.
Chris Stirewalt represents the best of West Virginia. We are proud to recognize him and honored that he has accepted, yet again, an invitation to come address almost 1,500 of the eager West Virginia Chamber crowd in attendance to honor, welcome and learn from him. West Virginians have long excelled in the national and global arena. There are not as many of us as in neighboring populous states, but we are legion in accomplishments. Chris represents the best of us and we are so proud to officially recognize his many accomplishments.
Speaking of recognizing greatness, Leadership West Virginia is on the march again. Founded by the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce over 35 years ago, this organization continues to shine. We fondly thank retiring executive director Pam Farris and heartily welcome Jennifer Willits as the new Executive Director. Joining Jennifer as the new Deputy Director is Jessica Robinson. Welcome, Jen and Jessica, and thank you, Pam, for almost 20 very fast years of a job so well done.
The West Virginia Chamber team continues to grow and increase capacity. Kaylin Jorge is now our Chief Communications, Development & Policy Officer, Lilly Barickman has become our Communications & Events Coordinator and Andrea Oxley has added to her role and has become our Business Development, Policy and Strategic Growth Lead. Additionally, Kaitlyn Pytlak-Morra anticipates adding to her role as the Chamber’s well-respected Legal Advisor.
Brian Dayton and Kathy Thomas deserve an extra special shout-out for helping the Chamber achieve record growth and a long list of milestone accomplishments.
Growth at the West Virginia Chamber is growth for the state of West Virginia and a hopeful sign of things to come. We look forward to our 90th year with energy, vision and loyalty to West Virginia, and most especially gratitude to the great members who have steadfastly and loyally supported the West Virginia Chamber’s work on behalf of a healthier, wealthier West Virginia.
Steve Roberts
President, West Virginia Chamber of Commerce