Chair Message

BY MARIE HOLLIDAY, CPA

My company, Cover & Rossiter, has been a longstanding member of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce. As a member, I would attend a few events like the Annual Dinner, Superstars in Business Awards, and the networking breakfasts. I had few expectations of my membership beyond meeting other business leaders and promoting my firm. How things have changed in the last several years!

I would have never predicted that I would be as involved in the inner workings of this great organization as I have found myself, and on so many levels. I must tell you at the risk of sounding trite that my involvement with the State Chamber has enriched my life and my business.

I have always believed that making a difference in the community in which we live is important to all of us. So, when Mike Quaranta asked me to join the Board of Governors after my firm received the Superstars in Business award, of course I said yes. The Board of Governors is a group of roughly 80 business leaders who are among some of our most involved members. They meet quarterly to learn about the state of affairs in Delaware, hear from experts on a range of topics, and offer helpful counsel to the State Chamber. At the same time, I was encouraged to join one of the committees to help promote some of the State Chamber’s initiatives. It was my involvement in these groups that really enabled me to make effective contributions to the State Chamber, develop stronger relationships with other business leaders, and ultimately play a role in shaping the future of the state of Delaware.

So, I urge you to volunteer. You will enjoy it, I promise you. Check out the website, DSCC.com, for a wealth of opportunities matching your interests and skill sets. You will meet some great people—members like yourself who want to give back and get involved. Here are a few possibilities:

Delaware Manufacturing Association

As the Delaware affiliate to the National Association of Manufacturers, this group focuses on improving the climate in Delaware for manufacturing to thrive and grow. It strives to enhance competitiveness, serving as an advocate for manufacturers in state and local government. This body also advises the State Chamber on topics that specifically impact manufacturers such as regulation, supply chain disruptions, and trade and tax policy.

Delaware Young Professionals Network (DYPN)

The DYPN encourages ambitious young professionals to get involved in the State Chamber and further their professional growth. Focusing on professionals between 21 and 40, its aim is to develop the workforce through networking and personal growth opportunities. They hold bi-monthly networking events ranging from happy hours, golf outings, volunteer opportunities to guest speakers.

Infrastructure & Transportation Committee

This committee monitors issues, policies, and trends affecting Delaware’s infrastructure and transportation systems and advises State Chamber leadership on related policy issues, helping to introduce and modify bills during the legislative process.

Small Business Alliance (SBA)

The SBA aims to connect the many voices of small businesses in the state into one resounding voice for the legislative body. This group supports businesses of fewer than 150 employees by bringing them together to network, share ideas, and help solve problems.

These are just a sampling of the volunteer opportunities available to our members. There are other choices too. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Tyler Micik at tmicik@dscc.com to become engaged. I urge you to step up and share your talents and opinions with Delaware’s business community. You won’t be disappointed; in fact, you will be gratified.

When you align your company with our organization, you not only connect your company’s brand with the mission of improving the First State, but you become part of creating a better tomorrow. Investing your times in the Delaware State Chamber is investing in the future of Delaware’s business community.

And like what happened to me, next thing you know you will be the Chair of the Board!