As this year comes to an end, I am grateful for the opportunities that I have had this past year serving as the Chair of TCCE. As we moved back to in-person meetings and away from Zoom, it reminded me of how important it for us to have human contact and relationships. It is a role Chambers play in bringing people together, and it is more important today than ever before. Chambers are made for these moments. We need to “lean into” making a difference in our communities, no matter how difficult and challenging the last two years have been.

I have been amazed over the years to see what different Chambers do to slay the fears and to lead in their communities. Your efforts and abilities as Chamber leaders to do extraordinary things is inspiring. It is a reminder to all of us that when we put fear aside, we dare greatness.

I remind people all the time that the easy stuff has been done. Many of the projects and events we take on are hard – and they should be. The only reward for doing something that is easy, is that it is easy. We need to do the work; we need to show up every day and do the little things that will lead to big successes. The successful Chamber executive understands the satisfaction in grinding it out every day, and the reward that comes with that mindset. It is a reminder to embrace the work and do the work.

This year would not have been successful without the outstanding leaders I had an opportunity to work with over this last year and for several years. Each one has contributed to TCCE’s success. Thank you, Keri Schmidt, Mike Malone, Doug Peters, Mary Frazior, Jim Johnson, Diane Probst, Beth Journeay, and Cindy DeWease.

They have all demonstrated the characteristics of great Chamber leaders and what can be accomplished when fear is set aside and the focus is on the work getting done. One person who rarely gets recognized is Aaron Cox. Aaron is such an asset for TCCE. He has the patience of Job and is so even-keeled, regardless of the situation; he keeps a steady, calming personality. I am glad he is on our team.

The future and what is around the corner are unknowns. I am excited about what is beyond the horizon. As we start to “lean into” 2022, I wish you the best for this holiday season, and what is to come.

Join colleagues for three information-packed days of "Institute- style" chamber education.

Whether you are earlier in your career and take the three year certification path or are senior leader that has completed CCCE, IOM, or CCE and engage in Advanced Studies, CCCE is a great opportunity.

Register today and join us February 6-9, 2022 for this excellent opportunity. Early bird pricing ends January 10 so don't delay.

As a follow up to our phenomenal Chairman's Conference and a thought to take you into great governance in 2022, it is important to remember the governing principles that drive a high performing board. It is important to keep these in mind to ensure that the board is fulfilling its duties and operating at the highest level.

Enjoy this resource from our Chairman's Conference facilitator Bob Harris,

As we end the year and begin a new, we are re-sharing this article from TCCE Board Member Jim Johnson that gives us a little reminder of the terms and terminology of our great chamber industry--enjoy!

Part of a good orientation program includes reviewing common language that is used around the office. This could be industry specific terms or acronyms, but the new team members should be familiar with their meanings. As you navigate TCCE’s TEXECUTIVE Monthly Newsletter, it might be helpful to have a snapshot of terms and abbreviations you might see. This month we are highlighting TCCE’s programs and relationships.

TCCE – Texas Chamber of Commerce Executive. We can’t assume you know what TCCE means! TCCE is an organization of dedicated executives and staff from chambers of commerce across the state of Texas, working together to develop business organizations that are relevant and meaningful to their respective members and communities. Think of this as your ongoing state professional development association with your peers across the state working together to find the best and most relevant information for your Chamber!