FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Marion Chamber of Commerce Reflects on a Successful 2024
and Looks Forward to an Exciting 2025
Marion, IL – January 24, 2025
– The Marion Chamber of Commerce, under the leadership of Executive Director
Karen Mullins, celebrated a year of remarkable achievements and community
engagement during the annual year-end event. In her speech, Mullins highlighted
the Chamber's milestones and introduced the incoming board members, setting a
positive tone for the future.
A Year of Growth and Community Engagement
2024 was a year marked by significant events and
partnerships for the Marion Chamber of Commerce. The year began with the ribbon
cuttings of the Deaconess Illinois Clinic and the Rachel Academy of Education,
enhancing healthcare and educational resources in the region. The Chamber's
FBLA Career Fair saw participation from over 25 community partners, and the
annual Duck Spree and A Taste of Bev’s events brought the community together in
celebration.
Karen Mullins remarked, "Our community's spirit of
collaboration and innovation has truly shone through this year. The
partnerships we've formed and the events we've hosted are a testament to
Marion's vibrant and resilient business environment."
The second quarter was highlighted by the
once-in-a-lifetime Solar Eclipse, which attracted visitors from nearly 30
states. Chamber members welcomed these visitors with enthusiasm, showcasing
Marion's hospitality. The Chamber also hosted a successful Business After Hours
event with Black Diamond and Oasis Outdoors and launched the annual Bass
Tournament. The quarter concluded with the celebration of AES Solar's 25th
anniversary and the opening of new locations for Spero Family Services and the
Southern Illinois Community Foundation.
Summer and Fall Highlights
The summer season featured the SI Made Expo, a showcase of
local products and businesses, supported by Senator Fowler and corporate
sponsors. The Chamber also hosted a delightful Business After Hours event at
Mandela Gardens with the Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois. August saw the visit
of the Sister City delegation, fostering international relationships and
cultural exchange.
In September, the Chamber celebrated the opening of
Chick-fil-A and the 40th Chamber Golf Scramble, a sold-out event at Kokopelli.
The fall season included the opening of Bits and Pieces in downtown Marion, the
Regional Legislative Summit, and the reopening of the Boys and Girls Club of
Southern Illinois in Marion.
Reflecting on these achievements, Mullins stated,
"Each event and milestone this year has reinforced our commitment to
fostering a thriving business community. We are proud of the progress we've
made and the strong foundation we've built for future growth."
Looking Ahead to 2025
As the Chamber looks forward to 2025, several exciting
projects are on the horizon. The Marion Chamber will host one of the regional
events for the US Chamber’s National Civics Bee in April at John A. Logan
College, promoting civic engagement among junior high students. Additionally,
the Chamber will host the 2025 IACCE Fall Conference, bringing Chamber
professionals from across the state to Southern Illinois for the first time.
"We are thrilled to bring these prestigious events to
Marion," said Mullins. "They will not only highlight our community's
strengths but also provide valuable opportunities for learning and
networking."
Acknowledging Leadership and Welcoming New Board Members
Karen Mullins expressed her gratitude to the 2024 Board of
Directors for their dedication and service. She also welcomed the incoming 2025
Board of Directors, including new members Jared Garrison with The Pavilion and
Whitney Stringer with First Southern Bank. Mullins recognized the reelection of
Amanda Throgmorton and Pastor John Holst and introduced the 2025 Chamber Board
Executive Committee.
The 2025 Chamber Board Executive Committee includes:
Treasurer:
Kimberly Walker with Kemper CPA
Secretary:
Megan Zeller with Priority Staffing Group
2nd Vice Chair:
William Cox with AISIN Group
1st Vice Chair: Matt
Carnaghi with James Arthur Design Co
Chair: Toni
Perkins with US Bank
Immediate Past Chair:
Deborah Hogg with Hospice of Southern Illinois
Mullins concluded, "Our leadership team is dedicated
and proactive, always striving to implement best practices within our industry.
I am confident that with their guidance, we will continue to achieve great
things in 2025 and beyond."
About the Marion Chamber of Commerce
The Marion Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization
dedicated to building a healthy economy and improving the quality of life in
Marion, Illinois. The Chamber advocates for businesses, connects members with
government officials, and promotes economic, commercial, and civic engagement
within Southern Illinois.
For more information, please visit the Marion Chamber of
Commerce’s website.
Contact: Marion
Chamber of Commerce 2305 W Main St, Marion, IL 62959 Phone: (618) 997-6311
Email: programs@marionillinois.com
