As a fourth-generation Alaskan, a graduate of the University of Alaska Fairbanks and after more than a decade as a Chamber member, I am committed to Fairbanks, and I am honored to serve as this year’s Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for the Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber was organized more than 50 years ago to advance the prosperity of the community. As a business community, we are also charged with the challenge of maintaining and improving Alaska’s Interior, strengthening the economy and maintaining our quality of life. To meet this challenge, we are fortunate to have a strong and diverse Board of Directors representing academia, large business and small business, non-profit and not-for-profit organizations, service and resource development. The Board consists of prominent leaders in our business community who are committed to volunteerism and our citizenry. In addition to the Board, the membership is represented by a hardworking, dedicated, and experienced staff. With the talented and committed team we have, it is really no wonder that Fairbanks Chamber was selected as the 2011 Chamber of the Year by the Alaska State Chamber of Commerce. The Board and the staff are honored to advocate on your behalf. Throughout this next year, the Chamber’s goal is to be your most important local business partner. You and your organization can look to the Chamber for business connections through face-to-face and online networking opportunities. You can be assured that the most relevant and impactful issues of the day will be discussed, debated, and considered as we continue our candidate and issue forums, General Membership Luncheons, and committee meeting discussions. And, you can trust that your business interests will be represented at every level of government and in all business associations in our community. Finally, as a Chamber member, you will have access to the resources you need to stay informed.

The Chamber has 11 active committees: from the Governmental Relations Committee with an aggressive political advocacy plan, to the Transportation Committee, that works to promote and grow Fairbanks as a hub for the state, each committee truly has their finger on the pulse of local, state and federal issues. Whether you are a new company or an established business, you will find counsel, resources, and assistance. Other committees include Natural Resources, Energy, Business and the Arts, Education, Military Affairs and much more. Each one represents your membership in the business community and serves to fulfill the Chamber’s mission.

Our members are the Chamber’s greatest asset, and as our membership continues to grow, the Chamber’s web of connections and contacts strengthens. We will have an even stronger voice and greater impact in our advocacy efforts through your continued support. In 2012, we will work to expand networking opportunities to help you make the most of your membership.

I thank you for the opportunity to serve, and I look forward to chairing the Board of Directors for the coming year.