Chamber endorses - March 2023

Chamber endorses candidates for RPS 205 Board

Pearson, Bennett and Haley backed by business community

After hearing presentations and reviewing completed questionnaires from RPS 205 School Board candidates, the Rockford Chamber of Commerce voted to endorse the following candidates: Denise Pearson (Subdistrict A), Nicole Bennett (Subdistrict D), and Kimberly Haley (Subdistrict F).

The Rockford Chamber supports candidates that reflect our fervently held belief that a viable, healthy community requires a healthy and vibrant business community. The largest educating body in our community, Rockford Public Schools-District 205, is an important part of the equation for a healthy and vibrant business community as they educate today’s youth and tomorrow’s workforce.

“With over 27,000 students and 4,000 employees, the Rockford Public School District impacts our community on a multitude of levels. A community with a robust and thriving school system attracts talent, increases home values and drives economic development with a guarantee for future workforce,” said Jean Crosby, chair of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “The Rockford Chamber is committed to working with those elected to the Rockford School Board to ensure a connection to and support from the business community. The candidates endorsed by the Rockford Chamber are candidates that will help strengthen that bond, hold the District accountable and keep it moving forward in its mission to be a first choice for all families.”

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce has an active Government Affairs Council focused on advocating for a strong and healthy business environment by influencing legislative, economic and social policy. All members of the Rockford Chamber are welcome to join the council to represent the business community’s interest by encouraging business growth, promoting a strong local economy and fostering a favorable business climate in the Rockford region.