Committees

Government Affairs Committee

Vice Chairman Donna Gowen Poe

The Chamber is the unparalleled voice of business in Glynn County. Whether working at the local, state, or federal level, the Chamber works for businesses by building relationships with local officials, legislators and the Congressional delegation. Our focus on regional issues like transportation will positively impact our community long into its future. The committee establishes the Chamber’s legislative agenda each year and organizes participation in the Washington DC Fly-In, the Grits ‘N Issues Program and the Glynn County Elected Officials Reception/Cookout.

Industrial Affairs Committee

Vice Chairman Pat Grozier

One of Glynn County’s most valuable assets is its strong industry base, and success in industry lies in a trained and committed workforce. The committee, in cooperation with the Brunswick and Glynn County Development Authority also coordinates the Existing Industry Appreciation Event and the Existing Industry/Business Outreach Program.

Education Committee

Vice Chairman Missy Neu

Education is a Chamber top priority in response to our members’ need and desire for a better-trained, more competitive workforce. As such, this committee works to provide business input, perspective and resources to enhance the quality of education in Glynn County. In partnership with the Glynn County Board of Education, this committee is responsible for the annual Teacher Appreciation Reception and Program; as well as supporting the Partners in Education Program and providing continued support for the Golden Isles Career Academy, the College of Coastal Georgia and Altamaha Technical College.  To learn more about the Education Systems in the Brunswick-Golden Isles area, click here.

Commercial Affairs Committee

Vice Chairman David Burch

The Commercial Affairs Committee initiates and supports programs that enhance the business climate for our community’s existing commercial and retail businesses through Chamber programs like “Shop Glynn” and in coordination with the University of Georgia’s Small Business Development Center and the College of Coastal Georgia, the Committee coordinates business education programs throughout the year.

The committee is also involved in promoting the use of Green Technology through the Green Scene of Coastal Georgia and supports the recycling efforts of Keep Brunswick Golden Isles Beautiful.

Communications and Special Projects

Vice Chairman Joe Willie Sousa

Communication is key! This committee works to inform chamber members as well as the public of chamber activities, events and programs. This committee is responsible for the Chamber eNewsletter, “MemberNet”, the official Chamber publication of events and announcements. Additionally, this Committee works on the Annual Membership and Relocation Guide – a great community and relocation guide and yet another way for businesses to promote themselves.
Special Projects play a huge role at the Chamber. These include a variety of annual fundraising events including the golf tournament and Chamber Experience. Sponsorship and participation opportunities are available for members.

Community Development

Vice Chairman Mason Waters

Quality of life in Brunswick & the Golden Isles is practically unparalleled and the Community Development Committee works to support community projects, activities and programs that continue to positively impact our community. To name only a few of its activities, this Committee conducts both the Leadership Glynn and the Youth Leadership Glynn Programs and in partnership with Keep Brunswick & the Golden Isles Beautiful it works to preserve our natural beauty and recognize businesses doing the same.

Membership Recruitment and Retention

Vice Chairman Greer Ward

The Membership Recruitment and Retention Committee works to recruit and sustain Chamber membership through a variety of activities and programs. Monthly Business After Hours events encourage networking among Chamber members and showcases local business who host and co-host these popular evenings throughout the year. Membership luncheons keep Chamber members informed by bringing in state leaders on topics such as transportation, the State of the Port and education. This Committee is also responsible our Ambassador program.

Internal Affairs

Vice Chairman Catina Tindall

The Internal Affairs Committee serves as the control function of the Chamber, insuring that the Chamber work is done in accordance with the by-laws. The Chairman of the Internal Affairs Committee regularly informs the Board of Directors as to the Chamber’s financial position and also serves as a liaison between the staff and the Board of Directors.

The St. Simons/Sea Island Council is a 16-member council, elected to serve 3 year staggered terms to represent St. Simons/Sea Island Businesses.

St. Simons/Sea Island Affairs

Vice Chairman Fred Zeh

The St. Simons/Sea Island Council serves as a liaison between the business community on St. Simons Island and the Board of Directors of the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce. The council also serves to represent and promote the interests of the business community on St. Simons and Sea Island and recommend support of island projects and programs to the Chamber Board of Directors and general membership.

The Council is responsible for a program of work, which includes quarterly Business Before Hours meetings, rotating 12@12 networking luncheons, Beach Sweeps and membership recruitment.

St. Simons/Sea Island Council Members 2012-2013