Garden City Chamber Executives Receive KCCE Education

"In these turbulent economic times there are new pressures on every Chamber of Commerce in the country," said Bob Harris, CAE, consultant and keynote speaker at the recent KCCE (Kansas Chamber of Commerce Executives) spring conference held recently in Manhattan. Some 65 Chamber executives from around the state of Kansas attended the three-day session including Garden City Area Chamber of Commerce executives. "A Chamber CEO and staff," Harris continued, "must all be highly efficient and able to effectively guide the Chamber board and advance the strategic plan."

"Lots of great ideas!" is how Chamber President Paul Joseph summed up Harris' presentation and the conference. Joseph attended the event with vice presidents Shawna Whitehurst and Aaron Cannon. "Harris broke down the three most important proficiencies of every Chamber: board development, strategic direction and organizational efficiency," added Joseph. "During this challenging economic period, now is the time for a Chamber to shine. This is when our members need us most. Bob's ideas and his insight couldn't have come at a better time. We'll go back home and implement many of these ideas."

"It was great! I agree," said Whitehurst. "I got the most out of the sessions on membership and retention but also making connections with membership personnel from other Chambers. But it wasn't all work, work, work you know," confides Whitehurst. "We did have the opportunity to network, socialize and tour the K-State Football Stadium one night. That was very enjoyable!"