Chamber President’s Message

Although 2020 changed many things, it did not change everything. One thing that remains is the strength of our local Springville and Mapleton business community. Hearing stories of great experiences disguised as challenges had us pivoting and learning new ways to communicate and prosper, such as Zoom meetings and home office commutes being at the forefront of our 2020 work day. We saw an inherent desire to support and cheer on one another as many navigated these new adventures. Business executives generally work well in a fast-changing environment, and this past year validated that statement.

Although many of our scheduled chamber events had to be canceled due to restrictions, it opened the door to social media conversations we had previously only dabbled in. Expect to see more of that in 2021 as our committees are eager to highlight all of the great things happening in our cities.

Together, we braved the new experiences with excessive amounts of hand sanitizer and elbow bumps. We learned we are all far more alike than we are different. And when we look around at each other, we can sense a lot of emotions and adrenaline while we anxiously wait to see “what’s next.”

At the chamber, we plan on “creating what’s next” for our members. No waiting around here; we have started planning events such as our annual BBQ, Business Bingo and golf tournament, and we always make it our goal to encourage citizens to Shop Local!

The chamber stands to serve as an advocate for our business leaders. Having been on the board for the last two years, I have witnessed the good the chamber brings to our business economy and the dedication, wisdom and experience we have in our local leaders. We have a vast array of entrepreneurs and risk-takers. Whether you have been a business owner for decades or you’re someone with an idea and do not know where to start, we encourage you to look to the chamber and get involved. As I have networked around our business community statewide during the past 20 years, I have met many men and women who have added value to my business personally and professionally through simply getting involved.

The chamber is eager to leap into 2021; our plans have already taken flight to focus on adding more value for our members. We continue to foster an environment for entrepreneurship and industry growth for the city’s future. Our membership is the lifeblood of the chamber, and I believe the chamber to be the lifeblood of the growing business economy. I encourage you to get involved. There are many opportunities available for our members.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Melanie Bott is our new executive director and a past president of the chamber; she has a wealth of knowledge and is committed to making sure you have a great experience.

I am personally excited to be dedicating time, effort and leadership to the chamber. Special thanks go to the members of the chamber board for their dedication to elevating this organization to a new level of excellence and furthering the mission of the chamber.

Jessica Devenish President, Springville-Mapleton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors