Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce Announces New Director of Membership & Education

Richmond, Ind. – Wayne County native Shawntel Baker will join the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce team in 2023. Bringing significant experience in both the education and business sectors, she will serve as the Director of Membership & Education.

Baker is a graduate of Centerville High School and attended Indiana University East. She currently serves as a school board member for Northeastern Wayne Schools. In addition, she has held leadership positions with the Northeastern Music Boosters and PTO. She has also coached cheerleading as well as basketball for both Northeastern and Randolph Southern Schools.

While Baker’s career includes time managing projects in the insurance and human resources sectors, she also served as Deputy Treasurer for Randolph Southern School Corporation. “I have worn many hats at the same time,” Baker said. “I am sure this experience will be valuable as I step into the Chamber world.”

“It was important for us to find someone who could move our current initiatives forward, but also have the leadership skills to work collaboratively with our members and community partners,” said President & CEO Melissa Vance. “I am excited to find these qualities in Shawntel and look forward to working with her.”

The position serves as the staff lead for the Business & Education Committee, Membership Outreach Committee, and HYPE Wayne County. Baker will work with the volunteer committees to lead initiatives such as the Career and Hiring Fairs with local high school students. She will also focus on growing benefits for existing members and work one-on-one with new members, helping them through the orientation process.

HYPE Wayne County is amid its second leadership cohort, WC Leads. This applicationbased program graduates no more than 12 per year and will be recognized at the Chamber’s upcoming Annual Dinner on January 20, 2023. This group learns from area experts on subjects like project management, developing a team, emotional intelligence, and communications.

The Chamber has about 540 current members serving the Wayne County area. Three other staff members work with numerous member volunteers and a board of 30 community leaders. Lynnette Davis serves as the Director of Events and works with the Buy Local Committee. Deborah Holdorff is the office’s administrative assistant, and Melissa Vance leads the organization as the President & CEO.

​“I am so proud to have such a high-functioning team that is passionate about serving others,” Vance said. “We are equally fortunate to have excellent board members who offer leadership, support, and advocacy for our business community. The New Year is looking very promising for Wayne County!”