SALISBURY — The Rowan County Chamber of Commerce has qualified to enter the American Chamber of Commerce Executives 2012 Chamber of the Year competition.
This marks the sixth time the Rowan chamber has qualified.
In 2005 and 2006, the two years the Rowan County Chamber actually applied for the award, it was named one of 12 finalists nationally. At that time, the award was referred to as ACCE’s National Award for Excellence.
Now dubbed Chamber of the Year, the competition features qualifiers that have been selected based on data collected in American Chamber of Commerce’s annual Chamber Operations Survey. Chambers that meet or exceed at least four of six criteria are invited to compete for the Chamber of the Year Award.
Qualifying demonstrates a chamber’s mastery and application of the core principles and techniques used to run a chamber of commerce. The award also examines the chamber’s organization management, programs and member communications used to support the community.
“Once again, we’re thrilled to be included in a group of organizations that help set the standard for non-profit organization excellence,” said Greg Edds of State Farm Insurance, Rowan Chamber chairman of the board. “Our sincere thanks go out to the many dedicated volunteers and staff that make this level of achievement possible.”
One in three businesses in Rowan County belong to the chamber, compared to an average of less than one in five nationally, President Bob Wright said.
“This organization has enjoyed tremendous support from the Rowan County business community,” Wright said.
Wright commended his fellow staff members for making this type of recognition possible. Additional chamber staff members are Charlene Deese Maness, Linda Sherrill and Rose Simerson.