Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce finds new executive director from within

PALMER— The Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce recently appointed past president, Ailis Vann as the new executive director, effectively replacing Ralph Renzi who resigned March 25 due to health concerns.

Vann said that as a longtime member who is familiar with their operation, she’s confident about entering the new era of her chamber service.

“It should be pretty seamless,” Vann said.

Vann said the position has been in the back of her mind for some time but when Renzi resigned rather suddenly, she started thinking about the position more seriously and quicker than she anticipated. She said that she took some time to mull things over and weigh out her life options before applying.

“I have a lot of love and pride in the chamber,” Vann said. “It was fun to get interviewed by people I sit on the board with.”

Vann first got involved with the chamber in 2011 while working for the city of Palmer. She joined the chamber a year later when she opened her business, Midnight Sun Yoga Center, and has been an active member ever since, taking on various roles including president and past president. She said that her new position will be another yet another way for her to invest in the community she’s so fond of.

“What a way to give back to the community,” Vann said.

Vann said that she’s made a lot of friends within and through the chamber in a “web of interconnectedness.” She said that her colleagues have been very supportive and she looks forwards to working with them moving forward.

“It’s very collaborative,” Vann said.

She plans on growing new programs like Shop Palmer and continuing to help community driven events like Colony Days in stay full swing.

“I really love the community chamber creates,” Vann said.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com