Accredited Chamber Executive: W.A.C.E.’s Recognition of Professional Excellence

WACE’s mission calls on us to lead and promote the development of Chamber professionals.   Through programs like the WACE Academy, Annual Conference, and others, we seek to ensure Chamber professionals have the opportunities necessary to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be effective catalysts and change agents in their communities.
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The Accredited Chamber Executive designation recognizes those Chamber professionals who have committed themselves to ongoing professional development and have achieved a level of excellence in their ability to lead a local Chamber of Commerce.

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Here is how a few accredited executives describe the value of their certification:

“Being an Accredited Chamber Executive through WACE is a significant milestone in my career and it reflects my commitment to leadership, professional development, and excellence in service to my community, said Kristen Dare, president & CEO of the Santee Chamber (accredited in 2022). “This accreditation equips me with the tools and best practices to better serve our members, enhance our programs, and advocate for local businesses more effectively. For our chamber, it means we are continually striving to set higher standards, fostering growth, and ensuring our community thrives.”

Nancy Lindholm, president & CEO of the West Ventura County Business Alliance and former W.A.C.E. Board Chair (accredited initially in 2010, candidate for 3rd re-certification in 2025) shared that “Being an Accredited Chamber Executive gave me additional clout with my Board of Directors. It was clear they instilled more trust in my professional management of our chamber knowing that I was keeping up with the latest trends and best practices in the industry.”

“Earning my ACE designation was my way of showing pride in what I have learned from W.A.C.E. Academy,” shared Trish Christensen, president & CEO of the Modesto Chamber (accredited in 2024).  “It also shows my board and community I have invested in learning and truly understanding the expansive value and power of the chamber of commerce industry.”

Are you ready to claim your stake to professional excellence by completing the Accredited Chamber Executive process this year?  

W.A.C.E. CEO Glenn Morris challenged members, “If you have been in the Chamber business for awhile, invested in formal education and training, and made a commitment to continually improving yourself as a leader, then you should submit an application this year!”

Criteria and process details can be found on the W.A.C.E. website.