​Conference planning season is in full swing, and I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be serving as Chair for this year’s WACE Conference, February 3–6 in Tucson, Arizona. This year, we’re taking a fresh approach: elevating you as a whole person. Our theme, IGNITE: Mind, Chamber, Soul, reflects our commitment to spark your professional mindset, strengthen your leadership within your chamber, and fuel your creativity with opportunities that nurture your soul.
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A few months ago, I had the opportunity to visit the Westin La Paloma resort in Tucson AZ where the conference will be held, and it is stunning! I know you will love the desert landscape, the resort amenities, and, of course, the authentic food. 

W.A.C.E.’s “Leader to Leader” column poses timely questions to Chamber leaders across the Western region to provide valuable insight and ideas to our readers.

This month, we asked: What are Chamber leaders not talking about enough and why should we?​

Chambers of commerce don’t get to pick the times—we answer to them. In mountain towns and metros alike, our relevance hinges on one thing: we must be relentlessly responsive to community needs. That’s not a slogan; it’s the job description for chambers.
 
ACCE’s new Horizon 2035 research makes this plain. Communities increasingly look to chambers as trusted problem-solvers, not just event planners or ribbon-cutters. In fact, a 2024 Harris Poll for ACCE found 81% of U.S. adults view their local chamber as a trusted resource and partner for business; nine in ten believe chambers help grow the local economy and address community challenges. That’s a mandate to lead, not coast.