A Letter to the Temple Chamber Membership & Community

As we mark the midpoint of the year, I feel privileged to pen this update as the new President & CEO of the Temple Chamber of Commerce. Stepping into this role, I am deeply honored to continue the legacy of leadership that has defined our organization for 117 years.
 
While I have had the privilege of serving the Temple Chamber for the past nine years, stepping into the role of President & CEO has been a new and welcome challenge. I am committed to building upon and advancing our mission with renewed dedication and enthusiasm.
 
During my interview, I emphasized the importance of architecting a bold future for the Temple Chamber. Boldness, to me, is not just a trait but an action, and our Chamber has a rich history of bold leadership.
 
Since our founding in 1907 by a visionary group of leaders who paved sidewalks for downtown shoppers, the Temple Chamber has been instrumental in shaping our community's growth. From pioneering initiatives like the Blackland Experiment Station to establishing educational institutions, our history is a testament to our commitment to community progress.
 
The growth and development we see in our community today—from our lakes and interstate to our community college and Fort Cavazos (formerly Hood)—are the legacies of bold and pioneering leaders within the Temple Chamber. Drawing strength from this courageous spirit, we are charting a bold new course for our future.
 
This blueprint is not a solitary endeavor; it is a collaborative process. Together with the Board of Directors, our dedicated Chamber Team, community partners, and Members, we have embarked on a journey of shaping our future. My top priority remains listening, understanding, and identifying areas where we can enhance value for our Members and the broader community.
 
To date in 2024, we have welcomed 55 new Members to the Temple Chamber, reflecting a thriving business climate in our region.
 
Our Membership of over 1,000 Members includes industry titans like Wilsonart and McLane Company, healthcare leaders such as Baylor Scott & White Health, and innovative firms like PDI and Meta, alongside numerous small businesses that enrich our city's fabric.
 
We have celebrated 22 ribbon-cutting ceremonies, symbolizing the birth of new ventures and the expansion of existing ones.
 
In March, we held the State of Temple College Public Policy Council Luncheon, highlighting the present accomplishments and future vision of the institution. Temple College is redefining its physical landscape with new construction and renovations, providing students with cutting-edge facilities and resources to excel in their educational journeys and career paths.
 
Leadership Temple graduated its 35th cohort in May and remains pivotal in cultivating the next generation of community leaders. Our new seminar series with Small Business Connect has hosted two seminars to date and aims to empower local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
 
We have hosted three signature events: Salute to Business in January, the Spirit of Santa Fe Trail in April, and the 14th Annual Baylor Scott & White Health Community Showcase in June. Each of these events showcases the diversity and vibrancy of Temple’s business community.
 
These events, along with our ongoing networking opportunities and community engagement initiatives, reinforce our Chamber’s role in fostering an environment where businesses can thrive without unnecessary obstacles. We’re talking about growth, development, and endless possibilities.
 
Looking ahead to the remainder of 2024, the Temple Chamber stands committed to supporting our Members and advancing our community's interests. We will continue with the program of work we began at the beginning of the year with upcoming initiatives like the Summer Sizzle “Seltzer” in August, the Golf Classic powered by Amos Electric in September, and the 40th Military & First Responders Salute in October.
 
While our 2024 programming and events are underway, recent challenges have reminded us of the need for adaptability. The flooding of our Chamber building twice in May and the devastating tornado that struck our community have tested our resilience but have also showcased our strength and unity.
 
In response to these challenges, our community has rallied together under the banner of Temple Strong. The Chamber has actively supported recovery efforts assisting affected businesses and collaborating with local organizations and volunteers. From coordinating donation drives to aiding in relief efforts, our Members and community partners have demonstrated unparalleled compassion and determination.
 
As adaptability relates to the future of the Temple Chamber, we have initiated a strategic planning process to guide us for the next 3 to 5 years. Through this process, our focus remains on innovation, collaboration, and resilience. We are committed to expanding our programming, enhancing Member benefits, and strengthening our partnerships with local stakeholders.
 
Your feedback continues to be invaluable as we navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and architect a bold, visionary future for the Temple Chamber of Commerce. A Membership Satisfaction Survey and Focus Groups will be conducted later this summer to continue our exploration of new opportunities and initiatives that align with our strategic priorities and address emerging needs within our community.
 
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Temple Chamber Membership and the community for your ongoing support and collaboration. Together, we are shaping a vibrant and resilient business community in Temple, poised for continued growth and success.
 
Kindly,
​Whitney
 
Whitney Theriot
President & CEO
Temple Chamber of Commerce

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