This past October, I had the opportunity to attend the National Events and Communications Conference hosted by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) in Huntsville Alabama. This annual gathering brings together chamber professionals from across the country who work in communications, marketing, and events, and this year delivered an incredible mix of inspiration, connection, and practical takeaways. I met peers from Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, and even Alaska, just to name a few. It was energizing to be surrounded by people who understand the fast paced and multifaceted work of chamber communications and events.

What struck me most was the overwhelming consistency in the challenges and opportunities chambers are facing nationwide. Whether it is how we communicate our message, manage social media, analyze performance metrics, or produce publications, our work is remarkably aligned. The most profound theme that surfaced across nearly every conversation and session was intentionality, which includes the deliberate effort chambers make to serve as the matchmakers and the puzzle finishers within their communities.

Chambers play a unique role in amplifying stories, building connections, and creating meaningful touchpoints that elevate their regions. Whether it is highlighting local businesses, sharing the journeys of entrepreneurs, promoting community events, or showcasing why people choose to live and work where they do, our communications efforts help shape the identity and pride of entire communities.

My biggest personal takeaway from this conference was the reminder to embrace the power of relationships. Many chambers across the country operate with teams of twenty or more staff members, with multiple people dedicated to communications or events. At the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance, our structure is much leaner. I lead our marketing and communications, and Mercedies serves as our incredible Director of Events. While we collaborate closely with our entire team, we individually carry the full weight of our specialized roles.

Because of that, relationships are everything. Our success as an Alliance is fueled by the support and partnership of the Regional Lynchburg Business Community. We rely on and deeply appreciate our member businesses across so many industries, including print shops, restaurants, event spaces, coffee shops, staging vendors, and more. These partners help bring our events, publications, and outreach efforts to life.

Beyond that, our partnerships with larger employers and regional organizations allow us to offer behind the scenes tours, engage in workforce development initiatives, support educational programs for youth, and highlight the incredible career and industry opportunities right here in our backyard. These connections make it possible for us to share the story of our region in an authentic way.

Throughout the conference, I gathered new tools, tips, and strategies to work more efficiently, understand when and how to ask for help, and better elevate the stories that make the Lynchburg Region so special. I left Huntsville feeling more inspired than ever to connect with our business community, amplify our members, and shine a light on the remarkable impact being made across our region at the local, state, and international level.

I look forward to continuing these conversations, building new relationships, and highlighting the stories that deserve to be told. If we have not connected yet, I would love to do so. Let's connect on LinkedIn and continue championing the incredible work happening in the Lynchburg Region.