Hinckley Chamber expands, two new executive members added

Membership in the Hinckley Chamber of Commerce nearly doubled in 2023.

Averaging approximately 30 members between 2015 and 2022, as of early December 2023, membership was at 53.

Monthly membership spotlight speakers enabled chamber members to learn more about ways to engage with and help others in the community, said President Melinda Mallari Swan.

Two new leaders will join the executive board, with each serving a two-year term. Two existing leaders will serve one more year after that, and then those positions will be appointed every even year. Vice president and secretary roles will become open every odd year, along with president and treasurer appointments.

Serving as vice president for the 2024-2025 year will be Melissa Augustine.

“An experienced leader in corporate and elected positions, Melissa has been an active continuous Chamber member since 2017 who has always managed to find time to volunteer in community events,” said Mallari-Swan.

New Chamber Secretary for 2024-2025, is Vicki Getz, a member since 2021. Getz holds a leadership role at Our Savior Lutheran Church and acts as its liaison to the Chamber. Mallari-Swan commented that Getz is one of the Chambers’ most present and engaged members and is “the ideal candidate” to fulfill the secretary role.

Staying on as Treasurer in 2024 is Denise Klag, whose position will open back up in 2025. She is currently employed as associate vice president with Cleveland Home Title and is the co-creator of the Hinckley Ohio Discuss It Facebook group. As treasurer, Klag manages the Chamber’s finances.

As Chamber president, Mark Staron will become the longest serving officer since the Chamber was reorganized in 2014, Mallari-Swan said.

“Mark is ‘old school,’” said Mallari Swan. “[He] does what he says he’s going to do – which is a LOT for Hinckley. He organizes the Happy Hinckley Holiday event, oversees the kitchen at Buzzard Day, supervises the details of Buzzard Day supplies and [maintains] the Chamber’s grills and shed maintenance. The depth of his involvement and experience helps ensure strong leadership as new people come aboard.”

Mallari-Swan said the Chamber looks forward to continuing its collaboration with local businesses and organizations to advance community benefits.

“Chamber membership is open to individuals, non-profits and businesses and not just in Hinckley,” she noted.

Learn more about membership at hinckleyohchamber.com/join-the-chamber/, or email info@hinckleyohchamber.com. ∞