One of Highlands’ most influential leaders is calling it a career, and her retirement will leave a big pair of shoes to fill.
Last week, Highlands Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kaye McHan informed the Chamber board of her intention to retire as of June 30. McHan has been the leader of the organization since 2019 and under her watch the Highlands business community has flourished – even in the face of trying times and unprecedented circumstances.
Less than one year into her tenure as executive director at the Chamber, the COVID-19 pandemic gripped the country and McHan was forced to adjust on the fly. Not only did she maintain the Chamber’s mission of promoting local businesses and helping them grow, she was innovative in finding ways that Highlands could market itself during the pandemic in a way that would continue to spur tourism and business development.
Following a tumultuous 2020, Highlands emerged from the pandemic stronger as a whole, with many businesses reporting record years in 2021 and 2022.
Along with promoting the Chamber’s business development initiatives, McHan also made sure that the organization remained active in the community. Each year the Chamber hosts the “Plateau Pickup” litter collection event in April. The Chamber also presents two free concert series throughout the tourism season each week on Friday and Saturday nights.
The “Chamber Chat” speaker series has welcomed experts on a variety of topics to share their knowledge with Highlands business owners, and McHan has personally volunteered her time with the Rotary Club of Highlands, the Friends of Founders Park, and the Highlands Performing Arts Center board.
Over the next four months, McHan will be assisting in the search for her replacement. Chamber board chair Blye Hunsinger noted that the search will begin soon and there will be as little disruption as possible during the transition period.
Kaye McHan navigated the Chamber through rough waters, hopefully her successor will be better prepared for smooth sailing thanks to her effort. We should all wish her the best as she prepares for her next chapter.