Dear friends,
As we head into the holiday season, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your membership and commitment to The Chamber, Leading Business in Cabarrus.
This has been an outstanding year, driven by the work we’ve accomplished together through strong advocacy, strategic workforce development, and meaningful partnerships and connections. Thank you for making our shared success possible!
It has truly been the honor of a lifetime to serve as your President/CEO for nearly ten years. When a former board member convinced me to “come home” from my work with United Way in Charlotte, he was right—it was a homecoming. My time here has been ten years of collaboration with old and new friends, all working to make our community (our home) the very best it can be. It has been a privilege.
After much prayer and discussion with my family, I have decided to retire on June 1, 2026. I feel that The Chamber is in a strong position for the next leader to start their journey, and I’m ready for my next chapter!
As many of you know from our advocacy work, quality childcare is a challenge and extremely expensive. My son and daughter-in-law are expecting twins in late May, and my first endeavor will be to help them by pitching in a few days a week. I also plan to run for elected office – something I can’t do while I’m leading The Chamber. And, of course, I’d love to find a fun, part-time job (no nights or weekends, please!) – so if you hear of anything, let me know!
Our Board of Directors is already putting together a comprehensive transition plan to ensure we have ample opportunity to find the perfect successor and guarantee a seamless transition for The Chamber. I am so grateful for the vision and leadership of our Board, and I couldn’t ask for a better team than Alison Paladino and Jess Fick.
Thank you again for the opportunity to serve this Chamber and this community! The thought of leaving is incredibly bittersweet, but I know this is the right time and the right thing to do. Thank you for your support and understanding.
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday!
Gratefully,
Barbi Jones, President/CEO
