10/29/2026
❤️ After 20 Years… It's Hard to Say Goodbye.
Today is my last day as Executive Director of the Northern Macomb Regional Chamber of Commerce, and I have to admit, this day is a lot more emotional than I expected.
How do you say goodbye to something that has been such a big part of your life for 20 years?
For two decades, the Chamber has been more than a job. It has been a part of who I am. I've poured my heart into this organization, celebrated its successes, worried through its challenges, and made friendships that I know will last a lifetime.
When I look back over these years, I don't think about the long hours, the meetings, or even the countless events we've put together. I think about the people.
The business owners who became friends. The board members and volunteers who believed in what we were doing. The laughter, the hugs, the conversations, and the moments when our community came together to support one another.
There have been so many wonderful people who have walked through my life because of the Chamber, and each of you has left a little piece of yourself in my heart.
I hope that somewhere along the way, I was able to make a difference, whether it was helping a small business succeed, bringing people together, or simply being there when someone needed a little encouragement.
As I turn off the lights and walk out the door for the last time today, I know there will be tears. Not because I'm sad about retiring, but because I have been so incredibly fortunate to spend 20 years doing something I loved, surrounded by people I care so much about.
I'm especially grateful to Madison, who will be carrying the Chamber forward. Knowing that something I've cared about so deeply is in good hands makes this goodbye a little easier.
To everyone who has been part of this journey, thank you. Thank you for trusting me, supporting me, laughing with me, and allowing me to be part of your lives and businesses.
I'm looking forward to this next chapter, but a piece of my heart will always belong to the Northern Macomb Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Twenty years. Countless memories. Lifelong friendships. And a heart full of gratitude. ❤️
With love and appreciation,
Kelley