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BARNESVILLE -- The Barnesville Area Chamber of Commerce announced Monday that Denise Adkins Leach will serve as its new director.
A Barnesville native, Leach has three decades of experience as an educator, mentor and organizer. She said she plans to bring her local passion, leadership experience and commitment to fostering a vibrant economic future to the position.
Leach spent her career in education with Barnesville School District and is the owner of Coastal Core Compass LLC. Chamber officials said her experience as a local business owner will give her firsthand insight into the opportunities and challenges facing area businesses.
Her background includes master's-level training in instructional technology, strategic planning, budget management and public relations. Chamber officials believe those skills will help her achieve the organization's goals.
Chamber Board President John Rataiczak said the organization is excited to have Leach take on the role.
"We are very excited with this announcement and look forward to what Denise will do for the Chamber. We were so impressed with our interview and what all she talked about that she could bring to benefit the entire Barnesville community," Rataiczak said. "We also like the aspect that this new relationship will even further strengthen the incredible connection between the business community and the school system. Her experience with nonprofit agencies is stellar and unparalleled."
Rataiczak also pointed to Leach's work with "Cutting Class for a Cure," a fundraiser she has helped organize that has become well known throughout the village.
As board president and organizer of the fundraiser, Leach has mobilized more than 100 volunteers and brought together hundreds of local students, staff and community members over the years.
"I am incredibly excited to begin this new chapter focused on community and economic development," Leach said. "A successful Chamber of Commerce depends on strong partnerships, engaged members and a shared vision. I look forward to working closely with our local business owners, elected officials and community organizations to build on our momentum and attract new opportunities for growth."
Leach said she is looking forward to getting out into the community, meeting residents and talking with business owners about ways the chamber can help their businesses grow.
"I’m excited to work in the community. I was born and raised here, so it’s very close to my heart," Leach said. "I'm just really excited to hit the ground running and see what I can do for our area businesses. I’m excited to help them grow."