It is with great enthusiasm that I write to you about the incredible transformations happening in Edmond, Oklahoma a city that is not just growing but truly flourishing As President & CEO of the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce, I have had the pleasure of witnessing firsthand the remarkable strides our community has taken in recent years
Edmond’s cultural and recreational landscape has been enriched with new facilities and events The recent upgrades of our parks and community spaces provides residents with abundant opportunities for leisure, learning, and socializing These enhancements reflect our city’s dedication to fostering a vibrant, connected community where residents can enjoy a high quality of life
Education remains a cornerstone of our community, and we continue to see significant investments in our schools and educational programs. The Chamber’s collaboration with educational institutions such as Edmond Public Schools, Deer Creek School District, Francis Tuttle, the University of Central Oklahoma and more, underscores our commitment to providing teachers and administrators with the tools they need to succeed.
Community engagement and inclusivity are also key themes in Edmond’s ongoing development. Events such as VIBES, Heard on Hurd, Edmond Arts Festival, and Liberty Fest are all efforts to bring people together and have strengthened the bonds between residents, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Looking ahead, Edmond’s future is filled with promise. The collaborative spirit of the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce, alongside the dedication of local leaders and residents, ensures that our city will continue to grow and thrive. The opportunities that lie ahead are as boundless as our community’s potential.
Thank you for being part of Edmond’s journey and for supporting our city’s growth and development Together, we are building a future that celebrates progress, embraces innovation, and honors the rich history of our beloved community
SherryJordan
PRESIDENT AND CEO
SAVE THE DATE FOR UPCOMING EVENTS:
Annual Sporting Clays Tournament
Presented by: Service Master by Eagle-Eye Friday, November 1 , 2024
Annual Women’s Summit
Presented by: Arvest Bank Thursday, November 16, 2024
Annual Awards & Hall of Fame Banquet
Presented by: Arvest Bank Thursday, February 5, 2025
On Thursday, August 8, 2024, the City of Edmond, in collaboration with the Metropolitan Library System and the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, celebrated the groundbreaking of a new $31 64 million community complex This dynamic project will feature a modern library and a cutting-edge YMCA. We had the opportunity to interview Chris Berry, District Executive Director, and Susan Smith, Interim CEO of Metropolitan Library System about the mission, vision, and execution of this new and exciting project
Q: Please describe the mission and vision of your organization.
Susan: Our mission is to connect our diverse communities with resources and experiences to educate and enrich lives
Chris: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all
Q: Can you describe the partnership between your organizations and the city for the development of this project?
Susan: The partnership between the Metropolitan Library System, the YMCA, and the City of Edmond is a groundbreaking collaboration that brings together shared values of community service, education, and well-being By pooling our resources and expertise, we aim to create a facility that meets the diverse needs of Edmond residents combining lifelong learning, health, and wellness in one central location This partnership ensures that the library and YMCA services complement each other to enrich the community in a holistic way
Chris: The community wins when partners work together After the success of partnering with the City of Edmond & Edmond Public Schools on the Mitch Park YMCA and Edmond Public Schools Aquatics Center, we knew the biggest impact could be made in Edmond, by working together We are very excited for this new opportunity to partner with the Metropolitan Library System and City of Edmond to make a large impact on Edmond This will be our first shared space partnership with the Library; however, we have worked together on programs previously This new partnership will allow Edmond Citizens to improve all areas of themselves: Spirit, Mind, and Body
Chris Berry District Executive Director of the YMCA
Susan Smith Interim CEO of Metropolitan Library System
THE EDMOND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Q: What are you most excited about this development bringing to the community and to each of your organizations?
Susan: This will allow us to serve the community in a more comprehensive way For the Metropolitan Library System, it’s a chance to expand our offerings, engage more residents, and help foster a love of learning and literacy.
Chris: We are excited for this unique opportunity to bring together three vital community resources, the YMCA, Metropolitan Library System, and the City of Edmond, under one roof Having a space like this is new for Edmond and we are excited to see how it will bring our residents together to encourage learning, wellness, and community engagement This project is a reflection of the Y’s commitment to building strong communities, supporting healthy lifestyles, and fostering connections that help individuals and families thrive.
Q: What were some of the motivating factors behind adding this new facility?
Susan: The tremendous demand for library services in Edmond was a key motivator The current Edmond library is the busiest library in Oklahoma, with over a million checkouts annually. There is a growing need to expand our space and services to better serve the community This facility will not only meet the current needs but will be a forward-thinking investment in Edmond’s future, serving generations to come
Chris: We are always looking to meet the ever-growing needs of our community This new facility will be centrally located in an area of Edmond that is rapidly growing and is easily accessible through public transportation and with its proximity to I-35 We also saw an incredible opportunity to share a space with the Metropolitan Library System that will help us create a vibrant hub that meets the diverse needs of our community in Edmond
Q: Is there anything else that you would like to add about this project?
Susan: This project represents more than just a new building it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when organizations work together for the greater good of the community We are grateful for the support from the City of Edmond and look forward to seeing how this facility transforms lives
Chris: This new facility will provide much-needed access to health and wellness services, educational resources, and community spaces in a convenient and centralized location in Edmond. By offering YMCA and Library programs and services under one roof, we can meet the needs of families, individuals and seniors who are looking to stay healthy, informed, and connected
The groundbreaking of the new YMCA and library facilities in Edmond is generating widespread excitement This new complex promises state of the art amenities, including a modernized YMCA and a beautiful library, set to significantly enhance community services and enrich the lives of local residents The upcoming complex, located on 15th Street just east of I-35 on land that was previously owned by Henderson Hills Baptist Church, is anticipated to open in early 2026
2024 EDMOND’S DANCING WITH THE STARS
On Thursday, September 5, our 7th Annual Edmond's Dancing with the Stars, presented by Mercy Hospital was an incredible success!
The night would not be possible without our sponsors including Presenting Sponsor - Mercy Hospital, Printed Program Sponsor - NP2Go, Cocktail Hour SponsorOklahoma ER & Hospital, Photography SponsorOklahoma Natural Gas, Auction Sponsor - INTRUST Bank, and Wine Pull Sponsor - Tinker Federal Credit Union. A special thank you to our Event Partner, Dance Makers!
Our 6 celebrity dancers included Thom Bishop-Miller, Humanity Hospice; Will Blanchard, Oklahoma Christian Academy; Edmond Mayor Darrell A. Davis; Edmond Public Schools Board Member Courtney Hobgood; RaeAnn Thomas, Evolution Imaging; and Senator Kristen Thompson.
The People's Choice Award winner was Thom BishopMiller The Best Overall Winner was Senator Kristen Thompson The Star of the Show was Mayor Darrell A Davis.
Thank you to all of those who attended, voted, donated, volunteered, and participated in the event!
The six celebrity dancers from left to right: Thom Bishop-Miller, Will Blanchard, Mayor Darrell Davis, RaeAnn Thomas, Courtney Hobgood, Senator Kristen Thompson
The 2024 People’s Choice Award winner, Thom Bishop-Miller with Humanity Hospice along with his dance partner Kylee Hopkins
The 2024 Star of the Show Award winner, Edmond Mayor Darrell A Davis along with his dance partner Elizabeth Wood
The 2024 Best Overall Award winner, Senator Kristen Thompson along with her dance partner Blake Whisenhunt
THE UNCOMMON GROUND SCULPTURE PARK
This article is an interview between Shannon Price, Edmond Fine Arts Institute and Melissa Pepper, Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park The Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park is a 62-acre site on the northwest corner of 2nd and Coltrane, along Route 66.
Q: We have been watching the park unfold and know the project halted in early summer 2023, what’s the latest on the project?
Melissa: It’s a go and we are full steam ahead In a way, the project having to halt was serendipitous because it made way for a collaborative partnership that really strengthens the impact of the park and its benefits for the community
Q: Tell us about the partnership between Uncommon Ground and Edmond Fine Arts Institute.
Melissa: Edmond Fine Arts will now have a brand new 35,000 sf program space anchored in the center of the park. It’s going to be an incredible addition to the 62-acres of space where art, nature and recreation intersect
Q: How did that partnership come to be?
Shannon: In 2021, we were asked if our organization would be willing to offer arts programming once the park was built. We were thrilled to be involved and started generating ideas immediately. The ask came at an opportune time also We had started thinking through the future of EFA Since I started as ED ten years ago, we’ve experienced 92% growth. We’ve outgrown our current space’s capacity. Having this opportunity allowed us a way to serve some of the 4,000 people on the waitlist each year
When we heard the news that the park wouldn’t happen, it was a big disappointment. I know there were lots of conversations to be had to make the park a reality, but I also knew that so much progress had already been made, not to mention, 38 incredible sculptures had already been purchased.
So, I went back to the folks who came to us and pitched them on an idea would they be willing to give it another try if we partnered with them and built a new facility in the park.They didn’t hate the idea. That was a Thursday and on the following Monday, I got an email that said, “how big would you like your building to be?”
Shannon Price Executive Director of the Edmond Fine Arts Institute
Melissa Pepper Executive Director of Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park
Q: What will happen to your space in downtown Edmond at 27 E. Edwards. Shannon: That’s a great question It’s important to us to continue having a presence in downtown Edmond We own the building and will retrofit the space to support our artist in residency program.
The 6,000 students (40% are adults) that currently take our classes will now come to the new space where the park is our front yard The current space is only 8,000 sf and the new building will be 35,000 We will be able to serve so many more students and host indoor festivals There will be a large event space open to the public for event rental usage as well.
Q: What was the catalyst for the park?
Melissa: The 62-acre site sits at the NW corner of 2nd and Coltrane, along Historic Route 66. It was home to a couple who raised Arabian horses for years In 2021, Mr Hal French purchased the property with a dream to build Oklahoma’s first sculpture park. I’ve asked him what the motivation was to make such a generous gift. He said he wanted to give back to the community that has given so much to him He grew up here, worked here and raised a family He has seen Edmond grow over the years and believes the park will be key for Edmond’s economic development and to strengthen a sense of community and connectivity. Coincidentally, the park will open the same year as Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary It will attract visitors from 200 miles and be an exciting new feature along the route
THE UNCOMMON GROUND SCULPTURE PARK
Q: Tell us about some of the features that will be at Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park.
Melissa: We have a few natural features about 15 acres are wooded and we will keep that area natural with a couple miles of hiking trails We plan to have art surprises around each bend Spring Creek runs through the property and bike trails connecting Arcadia and Mitch Park will run alongside the creek. The park will have three stocked ponds with docks and a boardwalk
We plan to build a large event lawn and stage to host special events The lawn is terraced giving it an amphitheater feel and better views of the stage We will have a welcome center with food service and a gift shop as you enter the park.There will be a dog park, a fitness/endurance course and a children’s playground. We will have covered space dedicated for picnics and a large pavilion for bigger outdoor gatherings
Q: Tell us about the sculptures.
Q: What is needed to open the park and Edmond Fine Arts Institute’s new building?
Shannon: We will be launching our official capital campaign mid-October We need to raise $20 million Our budget includes money for the building’s endowment and a portion of that budget goes to retrofit our current building downtown
Melissa: For the park, we need to raise a total of $72 million. $31 million has been raised so far You may have noticed dirt work along 2nd street We plan to sell that 5-acre space as a restaurant site The money from the sale of that land will go towards building the endowment that supports park maintenance.
Q: How can the community help?
Melissa: Every penny counts and in the coming months and years, we will have lots of opportunity for the community to come together to be part of making this a reality We will also be inviting the public to take part in the grand opening celebrations
Melissa: We’ve purchased 42 sculptures so far. We look forward to featuring local, regional and national artists. The sculptures are now owned by the city of Edmond through Edmond’s Visual Arts Commission program That program has elevated Edmond’s reputation as the art center of Oklahoma and between that and the impact the park will make in the arts community, we really see Edmond becoming known for being the regions’ art capital.
Q: Tell us about some of the art programs Edmond Fine Arts Institute will lead at the park.
Shannon: This is my favorite topic Our new Art and Event Center will significantly grow the arts scene in Edmond Our expansion isn’t just about size; it’s about deepening and diversifying our engagement with the arts We will be able to offer a wider array of classes, including painting, ceramics, jewelry, digital arts, and sculpture plus the stateof-the-art performance space will be ideal for small theater productions and concerts The park’s natural beauty will be perfect for plein air classes and exploring temporary and multimedia installations. We plan to spotlight local, regional and national artists in our new gallery spaces, fostering a community-focused approach to the arts It’s an exciting time for the arts in Edmond, and we’re looking forward to all the opportunities to come!
Q: What can we expect when the park opens?
Melissa: We plan to open in fall 2026. The park will be free and open to the public during park hours
The Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park is a 501c3 and relies on the public-private partnership for operating funds Through the public-private partnership, funds from the city will help support the park’s maintenance, but we will rely largely on donor support, membership sales, private event rentals, and fee-based programs to support annual operation costs
Daniela Deuel
My name is Daniela Deuel, and I am Regional Manager for Creative Financial Strategies, a valuesbased, comprehensive financial planning firm with offices in Albuquerque and Edmond Outside of the office, I volunteer regularly with Fostering Sweet Dreams, Anna’s House Foundation, Edmond Mobile Meals, and the Kelli O’Hara Awards Additionally, I serve as a member of the city’s Community Policing Board I spend my other time singing and playing the piano, walking my dogs Rocky & Apollo, trying out new recipes, and living a full life with my loved ones.
Leaving behind thirty years of professional/personal relationships and moving to a brand new town was no easy task. Within the first few months of living in Edmond, a coworker had suggested that I join a group specifically geared for young professionals The day I attended my first “Leadership Latte,” I unknowingly stumbled into one of the best decisions of my life Fast forward two years, EYP has brought me so much value in the professional relationships/network I’ve grown and the development opportunities so that I can continue grow my own business and leadership acumen. My EYP involvement and connections opened the doors to opportunities and conversations that ultimately led to my appointment to the Community Policing Board.
EYP is so much more than just a networking organization. I count myself fortunate to call many EYP members not just colleagues, but also friends. Without EYP, my life would have a noticeable void and all that I have experienced and accomplished would look drastically different Next year, I am very excited to lead EYP as the Chairwoman and look forward to continuing the mission of this dynamic group of professionals
Clay Collier
My name is Clay Collier and I am a Financial Advisor with FrontPoint Wealth Management We are an independent and locally owned firm in Edmond I work with individuals and families with retirement planning, financial planning, wealth accumulation and some insurance solutions. I also work with businesses where I can offer retirement benefits for the company or even work directly with the owner to offer them a business based financial plan. Outside of my work life, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Tatum, and my daughter, Tommie, as well as getting to hang out with friends watching football or playing golf.
Being an Edmond Chamber Ambassador has shown me what it means to be integral part of the Edmond community and the importance of supporting its local businesses. My favorite part of being an Ambassador is getting to meet all of the chamber members and expanding my network of friendships in the community
I think the biggest advantage to joining the Edmond Chamber is the exposure to other business owners and the people as a whole. My favorite part about Edmond is definitely the people. I always say I can't imagine raising a family anywhere else and I truly believe that.
Jake Wilburn
My name is Jake Wilburn, and I am a Commercial Real Estate Associate with Moriah Brokerage Services. In my day-to-day role, I work closely with business owners, investors, and developers to facilitate successful commercial property transactions - whether that's buying, selling, or leasing Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and playing golf I've been a proud resident of Edmond for the past 9 years, and I'm excited to continue contributing to the growth and development of this vibrant community
To me, an ambassador is meant to be a good representative of the community. Ambassadors should be friendly, supportive, and contribute to advancing the community. My favorite part has been about growing my network and creating strong bonds with members. The biggest advantage of joining the chamber is exposure, but you have to show up first. Through the lens of a father, I’d say the quality of life and people. I wouldn’t raise a family in a place where both weren’t present.
2024 GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
The Edmond Chamber of Commerce’s Government Relations Committee enables the Chamber to foster and maintain important relationships with elected officials. The committee works to represent the legislative interests of business on local, state and national levels through a variety of efforts including candidate forums, legislative breakfasts and government relations council meetings with various topics and speakers
Federal Issues
Secure additional federal funding for infrastructure improvements within the Edmond Area.
Economic Growth Transportation
Continue to support expedited funding in eight-year plan for transition of access roads on interstate 35 corridor improvements to ease congestion and improve safety
Support innovative workforce and economic development policy to keep Edmond and Oklahoma competitive.
Education
Advance and support strategies for equitable and competitive funding for the hiring and retention of a qualified workforce for PK16 to provide high quality instruction and the ability to offer competitive compensation, directly impacting the ability to attract and retain a highly qualified workforce
2024 Member Lunch with U.S Senator James Lankford
2024 Washington D.C Fly In with U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin
FUTURE LEADERS
LEADERSHIP EDMOND CLASS XXXIX
Class XXXIX of Leadership Edmond kicked off their year at St. Crispin’s on August 26-27, 2024. Leadership Edmond provides a backstage pass to the Edmond community Class XXXIX is presented by Edmond Electric The retreat sponsor was Sandler Custom Growth Solutions, and the session sponsors are Francis Tuttle, Mercy Hospital, MIDCON and Willowbrook Construction Services
Leadership
Edmond Class XXXIX Members:
Autumn Ackerman, Sandler Custom Growth Solutions
Megan Adame, Great Plains Bank
Scott Berger, Timberlake Construction
Brady Bieber, First United Bank
Kristina Bigby, Oklahoma ER & Hospital
Carson Cansler, Regent Bank
Jim Canton, Novus Bank
Stephanie Clements, Mercy Hospital
Brittany Cox, OklaHome
Lenis DeRieux, Deer Creek Public Schools
Leana Dozier, City of Edmond
Kalea Dutton, First Fidelity Bank
Cody Edmonds, Rader Building Company
Todd Essary, Mercy Hospital Foundation
Thomas Fiordelisi, Mr. Handyman
Heather Gardner, QUAD Construction
Keely Gilpin, Edmond Public Schools
Kinin Goble, First United Bank
Katie Golden, Edmond Family Counseling
Charlotte Hamil, Oklahoma Christian University
Megan Hornbeek Allen, LiveBetter at Home
Amanda Jones, Edmond Library
Chris Kennedy, Edmond Library
Allison Lawrence, Lawrence Capital & Impact
Strategies
Michael Lettner, Poe and Associates
Andrea Magness, Francis Tuttle Technology Center
Kenlee Maine, Leadline Marketing
Sean McGraw, Frankfurt Short Bruza Associates
Brett McMillin, SSM Health
Jack Minnix, Arvest Bank
Damon Minter, City of Edmond
Aubrey Moore, Edmond Chamber of Commerce
Brittnee Nessa, University of Central Oklahoma
Michela Owen, Backslash Creative
Payton Pleasant, Citizens Bank of Edmond
Sandy Rasmussen, BancFirst
Josh Sells, Oklahoma Christian Academy
Rex Shriner, Jetta Corportation
Ben Spencer, Edmond YMCA
Auggie Tuxhorn, Citizens Bank of Edmond
Preston Watterson, Northrop Grumman
Edmond Chamber NEW MEMBERS
Indicates Marketer Level Members
1907 Electric
2709 Jaclyns Trail, Edmond OK, 73012 405-697-1223
1907electric com
1HundredX Roofing, LLC
413 S State St , Edmond, OK, 73003 405-839-5234
1hundredxroofing com
A Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections 8633 Stark St Arcadia, OK, 73007 405-674-5965
