The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce is one of Salem's oldest and finest organizations, and we're proud of our longtime relationship with them. The Salem Chamber is a membership organization with over 1,200 local businesses, non-profits, and individuals. In addition to 13 staff members, the organization is led by a a 21-member Board of Directors representing a range of business types and sizes. Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Director of Events and Programs, Marla McColly Founded in 1884, the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce is one of our oldest community advocates and has worked tirelessly to promote our community by lending a positive voice for local businesses. 'We have a long history in Salem, and create a platform for a very tight knit business community,' says says Director of Events and Programs, Marla McColly. 'We represent these businesses and take action or lead initiatives that make Salem a better place to live, work, and play.' The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce has hosted a range of events with us since we opened almost 11 years ago. Mike McLaran, who served as their CEO during that time, was one of the biggest advocates of the project in downtown Salem. 'Salem Convention Center is a great fit for our annual events because of the convenient downtown location and their capacity and flexibility of space,' says McColly. 'Not to mention, the staff bends over backwards to help us out in a pinch and we have a really great partnership with the leadership team and banquet staff'. We could say more about what this group means to our community, but we'll let their members do the talking. The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce currently is planning two upcoming annual events with us in addition to their monthly Forum Speaker Series happening September through May of each year. It's a pleasure to serve this important group that has given so much to the greater Salem area & Mid-Willamette Valley region. Read on for additional details about their special programs happening at The Salem Convention Center, or visit them at www.salemchamber.org. First Citizen Awards Banquet Staff and volunteers are currently making final preparations to honor Salem's best and brightest at the First Citizen Awards Banquet on Friday, March 4th, here at The Salem Convention Center. Now in it's 66th year, this special event honors those who exemplify servant leadership. 'The event is about honoring men and women who do remarkable things to make our community a better place,' says McColly. 'They are wonderful examples of what happens when ordinary people take action.' The following individuals will be recognized at this special event: First Citizen Award - Byron Hendricks Distinguished Service Award- John & Susan Gallagher, Ron Hays, & T.J. Sullivan Outstanding Young Professional - Evann Remington “We are proud to recognize these gems in our community,” says Dan Clem, CEO of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce. “They shine a bright light in the Salem community and serve as examples to us all.” Read more about these generous local citizens who do so much to enrich this community. LEAD Business Summit The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce is also hosting the first ever LEAD Business Summit at The Salem Convention Center on Wednesday, April 27, 2016. The purpose of the event is to inspire and support local business owners and leaders through a series of educational programs, breakout sessions and networking opportunities. Details on registration and a full agenda will be online in early March, so make sure to check www.leadempowered.com for info, or follow the LEAD Business Summit on Facebook. Salem Chamber of Commerce Forum Speaker Series This inspiring nine-month series lunch series takes place in our venue during the months of September through May of each year. Their impressive line-up of featured speakers have included fascinating figures like global creative director for football and baseball at Nike- Todd Van Horne, Grammy-winning musical arranger Dave Metzger (of Disney's Frozen!) and motivational speaker Lou Radja just to name a few. Visit the Chamber's Forum Speaker Series page to see what's in store next month!