NORWICH – Commerce Chenango has announced that its Director of Economic Development, Jennifer Tavares, will leave in July for a position with the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce, located in Ithaca, NY.
Jennifer Tavares, CEcD, EDFP has held the position of Director of Economic Development for the past three years. Prior to that time, she spent four years as economic development specialist for the organization. In mid-July, Tavares will take her post as President of the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce, and will also lead the efforts of the Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB).
The Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce is an organization of over 600 members which actively advocates for its members, the free enterprise system, sound economic development, and to improve the quality of life in Tompkins County. The Tompkins Chamber coordinates professional development programs, networking events, member services, and offers support for community and economic development projects. The Chamber is the designated tourism promotion agency for Tompkins County, and hosts the Convention and Visitors Bureau and its staff. The Chamber also has a foundation which supports the Leadership Tompkins program in conjunction with Tompkins Cortland Community College.
In her time with Commerce Chenango, Ms. Tavares has assisted hundreds of entrepreneurs and small businesses in Chenango County, facilitated direct loan or grant participation in 32 business start-ups and expansions, structured deals with significant job creation impacts, managed the attraction of nearly $8 million in grant funding to Chenango County business, downtown revitalization, and infrastructure projects. Tavares currently serves on the Chenango County Planning Board, the United Way Board of Directors, and served for six years on the County’s Ag Development Council.
“My departure from Commerce Chenango and Chenango County is bittersweet. I am excited about the work ahead, and the new opportunities awaiting our family in Ithaca and Tompkins County,” said Tavares. “I came home to Chenango County seven years ago, and it has been a wonderful experience. I truly appreciate the support of numerous mentors, board members, co-workers, and friends I’ve met along the way.”
Tavares will officially leave her position with Commerce Chenango in early July. “Sincere congratulations go out to Jennifer as she accepts this outstanding professional opportunity,” said Commerce Chenango President and CEO Steve Craig. “Chenango County has benefitted in countless ways from her leadership and expertise.” Craig added that he is extremely confident that Bryan McCracken, who has served as Economic Development Coordinator for the past year, is well on his way to acquiring the skills, training, and experience required to continue meeting the area’s economic development needs.
Organized in 1959, Commerce Chenango is a not-for-profit, community based organization dedicated to enhancing the economic growth of Chenango County and the surrounding area. Visit www.chenangony.org for more information on Commerce Chenango services and programs.