The Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce is preparing for a new chapter with a change in leadership. After two decades as president, Rex Richards is set to retire. Vanessa Lynch will become the new president, and Stephanie Edwards will assume the role of executive vice president of growth and engagement. Together with the Chamber team, they aim to build upon the organization’s existing foundation while developing programs and opportunities designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s members.
For both Lynch and Edwards, the vitality of a local business community is intrinsically linked to the overall quality of life in Valparaiso. They emphasize that factors such as strong schools, accessible parks, cultural attractions, and various opportunities for connection all contribute to making Valparaiso a desirable place where individuals choose to reside, work, and invest. Lynch noted that people often select their place of residence based on these elements—the schools, parks, activities, culture, and connections that enhance a community's appeal.
The Chamber actively works to strengthen these vital connections through several key areas. These include business advocacy, initiatives for leadership development, the hosting of various events, and the formation of strategic partnerships across the city. This comprehensive approach has guided the team’s work in recent years, leading to the introduction of programs designed to incorporate new voices and perspectives within the Chamber’s activities.
An example of this intentional programming is the Lift & Lead Women’s Leadership Luncheon. This event brings women together to share experiences, engage in mutual learning, and foster professional relationships. The attendance for this luncheon saw growth from its inaugural year to its second, indicating a clear interest in opportunities that blend meaningful conversation with professional networking. Lynch affirmed that the Chamber approaches all its endeavors with deliberate intent.
This deliberate and intentional approach also extends to how the Chamber recognizes contributions within the community. The organization introduced the Chamber Champion and Emerging Leader awards. These awards serve to celebrate both long-standing, dedicated supporters of the Chamber and professionals who are bringing fresh ideas and new leadership to Valparaiso.
Edwards views the recognition of these contributions as a crucial element in ensuring members feel valued and actively involved. She stated, “We want our members to feel connections.” She added that they also want members to feel recognized and to feel a part of something larger than themselves.
Further demonstrating its commitment to the future of Valparaiso, the Chamber team is actively developing the Chamber Foundation. This initiative has been supported by $14,000 in seed funding. The Foundation's primary focus areas will include entrepreneurship, continued leadership development, and creating opportunities to support the growth of small businesses within the city. As the work of the Foundation progresses, it is expected to significantly expand the Chamber’s capacity to invest in the individuals and businesses that are crucial to Valparaiso's future.
Across all these efforts, the overarching goal is to ensure that Chamber membership offers meaningful benefits beyond mere attendance at events. Lynch and Edwards aspire for members to build lasting relationships, acquire useful knowledge, and clearly understand how their involvement contributes positively to the broader community of Valparaiso.
As a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, the Valparaiso Chamber serves as a crucial convener, bringing together various businesses and community partners around shared priorities. This upcoming chapter will continue that essential work while simultaneously creating space for new ideas and innovative ways for members to engage. Lynch and Edwards perceive this leadership transition not just as a change, but as a significant opportunity to honor the Chamber’s established history while thoughtfully addressing the evolving needs of a growing city. For members, this means ongoing opportunities to connect, contribute, and help shape the future trajectory of Valparaiso.
