The Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce has its Annual Meeting coming Friday evening. Interim Chief Executive Officer and President Christian Keisler has been among the people leading the planning effort for the event but will not preside.
Board Chair Lisa Kirmer and board members have sent a letter to Chamber members, saying the board has “decided to shift leadership directions” and adding Keisler “concluded his role” as of 8 am Thursday. Kirmer has not been available for interviews. Keisler’s only comment: “shift happens,” reflecting the theme of the upcoming Annual Meeting at White Auditorium on Friday.
Keisler had been part of a transition inside the Trusler Business Center that affected Chamber staff since this past summer when longtime president and CEO Jeanine McKenna became president of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation.
Transition has been a calling card at the Trusler Business Center for two years, with a permanent president still being sought by the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas — two years after Chuck Scott resigned. Just about a year ago, Visit Emporia then-director LeLan Dains left to lead Emporia Spanish Speakers, now known as Kansas Spanish Speakers. Matt Fowler was appointed as interim director and was recently named as permanent director, a move that surprised several Emporia city commissioners when it was announced last month.
While the search begins for a new president, the Chamber Board of Directors says its goal is to operate by consensus to develop a team that’s “proactive in creating an environment for business and community success.” With several facility and business closures since December 2024, the board is also restating its “commitment to assisting in attracting new businesses, supporting existing ones, and fostering resilience. In the spirit of transparency, we reaffirm our commitment to harmonious collaboration with you, fostering trust and backing for shared goals. community connectivity via parks, and supporting infill for sustainable growth as in Plan ELC and the City’s Strategic Plan.”
Tickets for the Annual Dinner are still available by calling 620-342-1600.
