Wood

ELKINS — The Elkins-Randolph County Chamber announced the resignation of Executive Director Lisa Wood on Tuesday.

Wood, who took over as director in the fall of 2018, submitted a letter of resignation to Chamber Board President Zach Elbon at the end of November.

Wood originally planned to step down this summer, but after the Chamber announced some major changes with the organization last month, she felt the time to resign was now.

“I believe a transition of leadership sooner may be more appropriate,” Wood said in a press release. “We are at a pivotal point in the Chamber’s evolution to a ‘partner-focused’ mindset. I believe the earlier we can bring in a new executive director the better, as we begin our journey on a new and exciting path.”

At its annual Christmas Party on Dec. 10, that was billed “A Gift to Randolph County Business Community,” the Chamber announced that there would no longer be a fee to join the organization. Instead, those who join the Chamber, will be asked to sponsor some type of community event.

Chamber members will continue to have access to all educational programming and networking events. Businesses and organizations joining free of charge will also receive a listing on the member roster at erccc.com.

Elbon spoke about the decision to make the Chamber free to all businesses during the Christmas event, saying, “As the business community grows and evolves, I think it’s important that the Chamber does the same thing. This model is a little bit different from what we have done and what other chambers have done. But I think it opens the door for more businesses in the community and allows all of them to be a part of the Chamber.”

During her stint as Chamber Director, Wood created several new programs and initiatives, including “Building a Vibrant Community” and “Leadership Randolph.”

“I’m very grateful to the Elkins-Randolph County Business Community for providing me the opportunity to serve as the Chamber’s executive director,” Wood said. “It’s been a wonderful six years, and I am proud of the accomplishments the Chamber and the community have completed together.”

Elbon applauded Wood’s effort and said he is pleased with the foundation she has laid for the organization.

“I would like to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude to Lisa Wood for her unwavering dedication and tireless work with the Elkins-Randolph County Chamber,” said Elbon. “Over the past six years, her exceptional leadership has been instrumental in the Chamber’s growth and evolution.

“It is no exaggeration to say that she leaves the organization in a much stronger and better position than when she first stepped into the role. As we celebrate Lisa’s remarkable contributions, we are excited to announce the opening of the search for the Chamber’s next Executive Director.”

The Chamber’s goal is to appoint a new executive director at its Feb. 25 board meeting.