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Chamber Committees

Our committees are composed of invested representatives of member corporations, organizations, and the academic community. These volunteers serve on Chamber committees, councils, and task forces that help to define our policies and approach to the issues that are critical to member businesses and organizations. Chamber Committees are what help organize and grow the Chamber. Committee members plan, negotiate and brain storm new ideas while maintaining Sumter traditions. Committees are a great way to take full advantage of your Chamber membership and to be a part of working with like-minded business professionals to help shape the future of Sumter.

Chair: Cary Coker
Staff: Chris Hardy

Our Vision: Sumter… a family-oriented community that excels in the work market.
Our Mission: To promote an ideal business environment which supports growth and total community development.

Small Business Council

Chair: Patina Calhoun
Staff: Chris Hardy

The Small Business Council works to ensure the Chamber is providing its Small Business community with opportunities for growth, networking, relationship building and continuing education. Small Business Council plans Small Business Week programs and events as well as facilitates the Chamber's FUEL Program.

Government Relations

Chair: Cary Coker
Staff: Chris Hardy

Advocates for the position of business in strategic areas of our community at the local, state, and federal levels. This council works towards developing annual legislative priorities in efforts with the Chamber's membership and Board of Directors.

Chair: Lefford  Fate
Staff: Breanna J. Hughes

Education/Workforce Development works to strengthen existing partnerships between the business community and Sumter's educational institutions including public, private, charter, and higher education. This council creates and implements various programs such as Career Leadership Forums and the Golden Apple Awards.

Partners in Education

Membership

Chair: Susan Wild
Staff: Ariel Wilkie Floyd

Membership Council monitors new member recruitment and retention efforts while overseeing current member benefits and ensures they are of value to Chamber members. The Chamber Ambassador Program is included within the Membership Division.

Military Affairs

Chair: Donny Hines
Staff: Chris Hardy 

To actively engage the military and business communities of the Greater Sumter area to develop strategic relationships and mutual support. The Military Affairs Committee works with the Shaw Sumter Community Council as advocates for military needs in order to remove obstacles and ensure the success and longevity of Shaw Air Force Base.

Leadership Development

Chair: Jimmy Davis
Staff: Chris Hardy

To create a platform for our members to build relationships, develop professionally, and become politically and philanthropically active. Programs provide leadership development opportunities while building partnerships that contribute to the economic development of our community. The Chamber’s Leadership Sumter program and Young Professionals of Sumter are included in the Leadership Development Division. The Young Professionals of Sumter is a professional development group for those 21-45 years of age who are looking to grow in their careers as well as expand their civic engagement.

Want to get involved? Email us at chamber@sumterchamber.com or call (803) 775.1231

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