Submitted photo Karrah Washington has been named the Elkins-Randolph County Chamber’s executive director, effective March 3.

ELKINS — Karrah Washington has been appointed the new Elkins-Randolph County Chamber executive director.

The appointment, made by the Chamber’s Board of Directors, will be effective March 3.

Washington follows Lisa Wood, who has been with the Chamber since 2018. Washington and Wood will work in tandem during the month of March to ensure a smooth transition, officials said in a press release.

Wood has agreed to stay at the Chamber part-time as the director of Educational Programs. Washington will take on all other responsibilities at the Chamber, including networking and advocacy events, website and social media oversight, and member/partner relations.

“Karrah is the perfect choice for the Chamber at this pivotal time – her extensive experience and visionary leadership uniquely position her to guide us into the future,” Chamber Board President Zach Elbon said. “At this exciting time of growth and opportunity, we are also fortunate to retain the invaluable leadership of Lisa Wood, whose contributions have laid a strong foundation for our success.”

In response to her appointment, Washington said, “I am deeply honored and humbled to be selected for this position. I look forward to all the future partnerships with businesses and organizations in Randolph County. I embrace the opportunity to serve our community.”

Washington has previously served as the executive director of the Barbour County Senior Center and the United Way of Randolph County (now the Tygart Valley United Way). Washington has most recently served as interim branch supervisor for Panhandle Support Services, and as the marketing director/office manager at Nikki Rogers & Devon Rogers State Farm.

“The Search Committee was impressed with Karrah’s extensive experience in both the nonprofit and business communities,” Mike Bell, chair of the search committee and immediate past president of the Chamber Board, said. “Her enthusiasm is sure to lead to greater engagement among the Chamber’s business partners.”

Washington is no stranger to the Chamber, having served on its Network Committee for many years. She is also an assistant director for the Mountain State Forest Festival, a member of the Interact Children’s Museum Board of Directors, a former Randolph County CLIMB mentor, and a volunteer for Relay for Life of Randolph County.

“I am excited for Karrah to engage with our entire business community, inviting members to join our dynamic network and collaborating with our essential partners to move the Chamber forward into a new era,” Elbon said. “Together, their leadership promises a bright and innovative future for our local businesses and organizations.”

The Chamber interviewed several community members for the position but ultimately chose Washington for “her extensive experience as well as her enthusiasm for the Chamber and its new ‘Membership for All’ mindset,” the release states.