Events Coordinator Terri Smith retires

The Chamber bids a fond farewell to Events Coordinator, Terri Smith. Terri's memorable smile, positive attitude and constant presence at Chamber events for the past 10 years will be missed by staff and members alike.

"Terri has coordinated hundreds of ribbon cuttings and business celebrations over the years. She has a way of making individuals feel welcomed and works with them through the process," said Marcy Hyder, Chamber Executive Director, Membership & Events. "We've worked closely together for the past six years, and to say I'm going to miss her is an understatement."

Terri began working at the Chamber in 2013, coming to us from Moline Centre where she worked with the Main Street Program. According to Hyder, "Her great rapport with Moline businesses spilled over to her Chamber role."

In 2018, Terri was put in charge of the Chamber Ambassador program. "At first, I was nervous to work with 50 of our business advocates. But these professionals not only welcomed me into their group, to this day they are some of my closest friends. Ambassadors are not only dedicated Chamber volunteers but contribute many hours to their community as well," said Smith.

Terri said that although event planning can be chaotic and challenging at times, seeing the final product come to life is very satisfying. "I think my favorite program was called Amp Up. It was a morning networking event with a variety of topics, and was one of those pre-COVID programs that everyone loved." 

With events now in the rearview mirror, Terri is looking forward to some well-earned beach time, traveling and visits with grandkids. "I also want to get back to my artist roots, volunteer (Chamber Ambassador?), and maybe relax," she said with a smile. "I’m going to miss the Chamber staff. These people are some of the most talented, hardworking, dedicated people I know and it has been a pleasure to work with all of them."