Articles of Interest
How to Stop "Volunteer Drift"
Associations Now
Volunteer leaders sometime stick around longer than bylaws dictate. That's a problem not just for the people in charge, but those hoping to be.
Tis the season for stress. The holidays are crazy enough, but add in year-end deadlines and sales goals, performance reviews, and the news of yet another raise not given, and you can already feel your blood pressure rise. But there's good news: You can still stay healthy, even when work is insane. It'll just take a little extra effort.
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Be sure to save the dates for our 2018
CACCE events:
Staff Leadership Development Conference
April 25-27, 2018
Hilton Head Island, SC
Annual Management Conference
October 3-5, 2018
Blowing Rock, NC
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President & CEO
Catawba County (NC) Chamber of Commerce
lkeisler@catawbachamber.org
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How long have you been in Chamber work
?
8 years
How long have you been in your current position?
1 year
What do you love most about your job?
My why is hearing firsthand the story of a recent CVCC Manufacturing Academy graduate who has a greater sense of self-worth, a new set of skills and a new career with a steady paycheck to provide for his family.
My why is the small business owner who "can't participate" because in order to step away she would have to close shop and risk losing a sale. In addition to carrying many titles, she carries many worries.
My why is the first generation US citizen, whose parents came to America in order for their children to live their best life. We cut a ribbon for their new business several months ago. The sense of pride on their faces and tears welled in their eyes as the ribbon fell was unforgettable.
My why is a note on the inside front cover of a self-published novel by a gentleman who said he wanted to personally deliver one of the first copies of his book to me because I listened, encouraged him and connected him to the proper resources he needed in order to finish it.
My why is a desire to continue the work of the legacy leaders gone before me. Sitting in our Board room and wishing the walls could talk and share about the decisions that have been made which have resulted in many of the things we benefit from today.
My why is looking into the sparkly blue eyes of my two boys and wanting them to possess the same love and pride for Catawba County, their home. And later, to reap the benefits of a thriving, vibrant community that is growing and full of opportunity.
I could truly go on and on -- I challenge you to write down your "Why"! Your lifework is a worthy calling!
Tell us about your most embarrassing Chamber moment.
We've all had that moment when we called someone by the wrong name in front of a crowd, or neglected to recognize a sponsor or had a brief lapse in train of thought while speaking publicly. It happens!
Which Chamber Executive has had the biggest impact on your career and how?
Many of you have touched my life, both personally and professionally, but I had the privilege of coming alongside of Danny Hearn for 8 years. Danny has been my most influential mentor, the leader who has allowed me to learn, make mistakes, take risk, and grow. The person who has believed in me...and certainly whose passion for this industry is highly contagious.
What is your Chamber's signature event? Tell us about how it is run and what time of year it is held...
I wouldn't say we had a "signature event." I am most proud of the impact that our program of work is making for the growth and business competitiveness success of our Shareholders, Investors and Catawba County at large.
What is your favorite Carolina destination outside of the one you represent and why?
Our family loves Blowing Rock, NC. Funny story - my parents are renovating a mountain house in Blowing Rock. We were up checking on the progress and passed one of their neighbors outside doing yard work. Even with a dust mask, I could recognize my friend and colleague, Charles Hardin, President/ & CEO of the Blowing Rock Chamber. Turns out, they are neighbors! Small world!
What is your favorite hobby?
I spend every ounce of my personal time with my heart and soul, which are "my guys" - My husband Corey, and two sons, Jeb (3) & McCoy (8 months).
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Veterinarian, Forensic Scientist, or an Olympic volleyball player on Team USA.
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