Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/809553
58 | M A C O N M A G A Z I N E A P R I L / M A Y 2 0 1 7 2017 ushers in a new commitment to economic development through the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce. Working closely with our economic development partners, the Chamber has targeted key areas that are critical for sustaining job development, economic employment and socioeconomic growth. These achievements cannot happen without the partnership of our education and business leaders, public officials and community members. The regional presence of Mercer University, Wesleyan College, Fort Valley State University, Middle Georgia State University and Georgia College and State University all prove that high-performing academic talent live and thrive in our area. By working collaboratively with these institutions and with our community partners to engage underutilized talent, I believe Macon is prime to have a renaissance in job creation and secondary education performance success. Maintaining a business-friendly environment is also key to our region's stabilization. We act to enable sustained economic growth through the promotion of public policy and community development initiatives. Across all facets of business, the Chamber understands that the importance of a healthy business climate is driven from the community it serves. In addition to the promotion of education and business, we will continue to promote regionalism and engage our elected officials at the local and state levels to help build a healthy community. The success of the more than 150-year-old Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce is the result of a combination of its valued members and staff. As 2017 Chair of the Chamber, I am honored and grateful for their dedicated support and pledge that the Chamber will continue to be a bridge for building a stronger business community for all of Middle Georgia. Isaac J. Culver III 2017 Chairman Today's Work is Tomorrow's Growth