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About Us

There's nothing stuffy about this Chamber. Founded by visionary business leaders in 1890, your chamber is future-focused, evolving alongside our members. Together, we create a more vibrant city.

Today, we continue a legacy of those forward-thinking business and community leaders who sought to create a fertile environment for business growth and personal success.

Our VISION

We are your primary resource for business success.

We foster an environment for:

• Business Growth
• Entrepreneurship
• Talent Attraction and Retention
• Innovation

Our MISSION

Business Thrives. Community Grows.

Supported by a committed board comprised of Chamber members and small but mighty staff, the Chamber's mission is to help business thrive so that our community grows.

Cindy Frey - med

Cindy Frey

President

With a career that spans more than 40 years, Cindy has demonstrated leadership in community and economic development. She joined the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce as its president in 2013. She has called Columbus her home for nearly 30 years.

Crissy Riley - med

Crissy Riley

Membership Director

With a background in marketing and sales, Crissy brings years of experience in fostering community relationships and driving business growth. Her passion for connecting local businesses and advocating for their success is matched by her approachable and supportive nature. Crissy's commitment to enhancing member engagement and delivering exceptional value ensures a thriving and dynamic business community.

Kami Adams - med

Kami Adams

Director of Operations & Finance

 

A 25+ year veteran on the team, Kami ensures the Chamber of Commerce runs smoothly and efficiently. She directs financial oversight for the Chamber and its Foundation, human resources for the Chamber and two partner organizations, and the Chamber's communications and event logistics. Kami fosters a collaborative environment, making her a trusted and invaluable leader within the chamber.

Aubrey Smith - med

Aubrey Smith

Member Services Leader

 

As the first point of contact, our member services leader ensures that our members and the community get the answers they need. Aubrey coordinates dozens of events and programs, including ambassador meetings, board meetings, ribbon cuttings, advocacy events, Speed Networking, Taking Care of Business, and more.

Dan Nash

Dan nash

Director of Entrepreneurship

 

As Director of Entrepreneurship, Dan is the first point of contact for start-ups, small businesses and tech endeavors. If you have an idea on a napkin, need help with funding or creating a business plan, reach out to Dan.

Board Members

Mandy Wyant

Chair
Family Chiropractic and Wellness

John Sadtler

Past Chair
SIHO Insurance Services

JONAS HOWELL

Executive Committee Member
Centra Credit Union

NICK SPRAGUE

Executive Committee Member
Sprague Hotel Developers

Kelsey declue

Executive Committee Member
Columbus Regional Health

CURT ATON

Noblitt Fabricating

Lindsey babinec

Blondie's Salon and Spa

MATT CAROTHERS

Northwestern Mutual - Greater Horizon

RYAN DAY

Cummins Inc

WAYNE De FREITAS

CinLee Services, LLC

Betsey elwert

Lohmeyer Plumbing

DR. KEVIN JONES

Indiana University Columbus

BRANDI LEGGE

White River Running Company

DANIELLE NICKERSON

Toyota Material Handling

TYLER NICKERSON

First Financial Bank

CHAD PHILLIPS

Bartholomew Co. School Corporation

MICHELLE SCHAEFER

JCB

DONNA ZEH

Ivy Tech Community College

ASHLEY DIETER

Ex-Officio
Community Education Coalition

larrY Kleinhenz

Ex-Officio
Bartholomew County Commissioners

JASON HESTER

Ex-Officio
Greater Columbus Economic Development

MISTY WEISENSTEINER

Ex-Officio
Columbus Area Visitors Center

Mary Ferdon

Ex-Officio
Mayor - City of Columbus