STaff

Director of Administration for the Chamber since 1995

Focuses on: Finance, human resources, and IT

In my free time I enjoy: Bruce Springsteen music and running.

Fun Fact: The house in which I grew up was previously the office for the Barr pickle factory, which had a connection to Gig Young’s (Byron Barr’s) family.

What the staff says: "Judy is calm and patient in supporting me in my position."

"Judy is one of the most ethical people I have ever known and is always willing to listen to both sides of an issue. I count on her to point me in the right direction."

Vice President of the Chamber since 1988

Focuses on: Membership programs; the Waite Park and Sauk Rapids Chambers; editing Business Central magazine.

In my free time I enjoy: gardening, both flowers and vegetables, but mostly flowers; reading; travel; and embroidery. Did I mention gardening?

Fun Fact: I have been trying to attract Purple Martins to my yard for 18 years. In the spring of 2015 they finally accepted my invitation and we fledged nine out of nine babies!

What the staff says: "Gail takes the best vacations to the best places. I admire her adventurous side."

"Gail always helps me and centers me when I get crazy ideas or am unsure about what to do. I know I can always count on her."

Communications & Workforce Development Coordinator for the Chamber since January 2018

Focuses on: News writing, "Unite for Success" Internship Program, coordinating development programs

In my free time I enjoy:  Photography, running, exploring new towns, hiking, yoga, and trying to pet my cat, Chinook.

Fun Fact: I was born and raised in the small town of Glennallen, Alaska. Since graduating from high school, I have returned every summer to work at Wrangell St. Elias National Park. 2018 will be my first full year in Minnesota!

What the staff says: "Kelti is always thinking about new and creative ways we can reach out to members."
"Kelti brings new perspectives from living in a small town in Alaska. It’s great to find out things we take for granted can be done differently."

Administrative Assistant/Network Administrator for the Chamber since 2002

Focuses on: Website maintenance, special event registration, and program support.

In my free time I enjoy: I enjoy reading, counted cross stitch, baking, writing poetry, playing games with my kids, playing cards.

Fun Fact: When I was about 19 I entered a poetry contest in Reader’s Digest and won 2nd place.

What the staff says: "Vicki has a wealth of knowledge and helps me understand my job better."

"I appreciate Vicki’s knowledge and helpfulness when I have website and computer questions."

Administrative Assistant since 2015

Focuses on: Customer and information services.

In my free time I enjoy: going for walks, crafts, volunteering, and any activities surrounding my four boys.

Fun Fact: My official name is Michelle. I have gone by the name Shelly since kindergarten when my teacher asked my parents if it was okay because there were three Michelles in my class.

What the staff says: "Shelly loves helping people and the joy it brings her seems to come out of her pores!"

"Shelly is personable, friendly and helpful to visitors and staff and a wonderful asset to the Chamber."

Special Events Coordinator for the Chamber since August 2019

Focuses on: Creating and coordinating special events to meet the growing personal and professional needs of the companies and organizations in Central Minnesota.

In my free time I enjoy reading, board games, going to concerts, traveling, singing in community choir, spending time with friends and family

Fun Fact: I like crafts and make many things myself.

What the staff says: "Laura cracks me up with regular references to The Office. She has so many silly phrases that make me laugh."
"Laura cares deeply about providing every member with the best possible experience we can provide. She has a gift for connecting with people."
 

Membership Specialist since 2018

Focuses on: Working with businesses in the community to better understand the value of our chamber and increase our membership base along side providing information and support to our existing membership base.

In my free time I enjoy: Spending time with family and friends, playing golf, watching football and watching my youngest play basketball.

Fun Fact:  I snowboard.

What the staff says:  "Antoinette's happy disposition is contagious. She is always smiling and makes you smile with her.
"Antoinette is passionate about helping others.
"Antoinette’s experience as a member of a chamber in Arizona gives her a unique perspective as she talks with new and prospective Chamber members."
"Antoinette, like all great salespeople, always has a smile, even when I know she isn’t getting any hits."