The Livingston/Overton County Chamber of Commerce inducted six new board members and outlined an ambitious vision for economic growth at its sold-out Annual Luncheon on July 30th.

The event, attended by over nearly 100 business and community leaders, featured the installation of new board members Greg Burgess (Volunteer State Community College), Ned Cobb (INOAC Exterior Systems), Emma Cannon (James F. Scarlett, CPA, P.C.), Jason Garrett (UT Extension), Stacy Johnson (TCAT Upper Cumberland), and Lesley Riddle (Overton County Schools), who will serve two-year terms guiding the Chamber’s strategic initiatives.

“Today’s sold-out luncheon reflects the incredible energy in our business community right now,” said Zach Stephens, Chamber President & CEO. “With new board leadership in place and transformational initiatives launching this fall, we’re ready to tackle our biggest challenges head-on. From workforce development to state funding for downtown revitalization, we’re focused on initiatives that will have lasting impact on our economy.”

Board Chairman Clint Melton emphasized the collaborative spirit driving the Chamber’s efforts. “Having six outstanding leaders join our board shows that our business community is ready to step up and lead,” Melton said. “These individuals bring diverse expertise and fresh perspectives that will be invaluable as we work to strengthen our local economy. When business leaders volunteer their time like this, it sends a powerful message about their belief in our community’s future.”

The Chamber also recognized six outgoing board members for their dedicated service: Cristy Miller (Overton County Schools), Tammy Mangrum (Traci Willis Layne Agency), Sean Martin (AG1 CO-OP), Rhonda Young (Quality Home Health), Cliff Wightman (TCAT Upper Cumberland), and Ben Winningham (UCEMC).

During the luncheon, Stephens remarked that the Chamber is constantly working on economic and tourism development efforts. He also outlined key initiatives for the coming year, including:

· Developing partnerships with educational institutions to create workforce pipelines

· Exploring opportunities to improve literacy

· Advocating for the continuation of downtown revitalization funding

· Expanding entrepreneurship programs including the relaunch of “Powered by Her”

· Exploring a community kitchen to support agricultural entrepreneurs

“First National Bank is proud to support the Chamber’s Annual Luncheon and the important work being done for our business community,” said Ken Dodson of First National Bank, the event’s presenting sponsor. “When we invest in the Chamber, we’re investing in the economic vitality of our entire region.”

The Chamber represents over 280 businesses in Overton County and serves as the voice of business in the community.