The Altoona-Blair County Development Corporation and the Blair County Chamber are ramping up our merger process by adding two key staff people on the Chamber side of the house.
Jennifer Fleck has been named the new Events Coordinator and Megan Rossman steps into the role of Member Engagement Manager. Both are new positions that will assist the Chamber events and committee operations.
“We are excited about these major staff additions and the experience they bring to the table. The new positions are the result of early discussions with current staff and Chamber members who have identified key needs to support both current and future operational needs,” said Stephen McKnight, ABCD President and CEO. “Jennifer and Megan bring the right experience and vision to these respective positions, both of which will enhance member services, impact and communication across the board,” McKnight added.
Fleck has most recently been Sales and Admissions Director at Westminster Woods, a retirement community in Huntingdon County. She was previously Marketing and Membership Director at Explore Altoona and a reporter and weekend anchor at WTAJ-TV.
Rossman was Public Relations Coordinator for ARROW Land Solutions, LLC where she planned and executed company events, managed the company’s website and social media accounts, and coordinated community outreach endeavors and sponsorships.
“They bring a lot to the table,” acknowledged Chamber President Joe Hurd. “As we look at ways that a merged organization can better serve its membership base, it starts with great people. Adding Jenn and Megan to our outstanding existing staff solidifies a team that members should feel good about.”
“I have sincerely been touched by the warm welcome from both the Chamber and the ABCD staffs, board leadership and Chamber members,” Fleck admitted. “Working at the Chamber will allow me to use my professional skills and make a difference in the local business community.”
Rossman expressed similar thoughts.
“With the number of committees offered through the Chamber, each with its own separate mission, I am eager to learn about the great things they already do,” she pointed out.
The first phase of the merger process, which is underway now and will continue through the end of this year, involves establishing new governance procedures, bylaws to ensure the operational foundation for both ABCD and the Chamber are in place and ready to serve the modern market needs of the membership base. 2024 will be a year of strategic planning, focused on member input and new ideas and potential changes they see should take place. 2025 will be a year of implementation on any of the new approaches that result from the strategic planning process.
