|
Dear Members, Partners, and Community Stakeholders,
I am writing today to share news of an upcoming transition at the Tompkins Chamber & CVB. After a decade leading this incredible organization, and nearly twenty years serving as a chamber of commerce and economic development leader, I will be transitioning out of my role in mid-October.
This role has provided so many opportunities to do inspiring and exciting work alongside our members and the broader community, and I will be forever grateful for the privilege and honor of serving as president of this wonderful organization. Beginning in mid-October, I will be serving as Director of Community Relations for Cornell University. I am excited for this new chapter and look forward to building on many existing partnerships, identifying new strategic opportunities, and continuing my work with the community.
To the dozens of team members, Board members, Ambassadors, and committee volunteers I have had the pleasure of working with over the last ten years: thank you! I have been consistently in awe of your commitment to fostering the economic success of our community and region. I commend you for your investment of time, treasure, and expertise to benefit the community. While the work of the Chamber & CVB is often taking place in the background, it has not gone unnoticed by many who benefit and who work alongside you.
To our broader membership, our tourism partners, numerous current and former community leaders, elected officials and their staff: we have navigated some very good and very difficult times together; we have learned from and supported each other; and we have collaborated on a series accomplishments and projects which will impact our community for decades to come. I am so proud of the work we have done together, and I look forward to seeing what comes next.
The Tompkins Chamber & CVB are in wonderful, capable hands. I am pleased to share that the Board of Directors have appointed Peggy Coleman, current Vice President and CVB Director, as Interim President of the organization beginning on Friday, September 27th. Peggy has been with the organization for over eight years, and has capably led not only the CVB division, but has also supported me in leading the entire organization. Prior to joining our team, Peggy has served as President of Corning & the Southern Finger Lakes (Steuben County CVB) and is known by many as a statewide leader in the tourism industry and in association-based government affairs work.
I know that Peggy and the rest of our great team will be here to support our members and partners, and continue the great work of the organization in the months and years ahead. I look forward to working with many of you in my new role and seeing you around town - please do not hesitate to stay in touch.
With gratitude,
| 
