CULLMAN, Ala. – After seven years as president and CEO of the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center, Leah Bolin informed the Board of Directors of her resignation on Tuesday, April 16. Her resignation is effective Friday, May 31.
Bolin shared the following heartfelt letter during Tuesday’s monthly Chamber Board meeting:
“My time at the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. When I was called to this role seven years ago, I felt that God had a purpose for me to accomplish. During that time, we have doubled memberships, diversified revenue streams, and increased revenue by 53%. We’ve worked diligently to improve the business climate through our ongoing efforts to implement our 5-year strategic plan. I am proud of what we have accomplished as a team on behalf of our volunteers and employees. I am convinced that the Chamber will continue to be an increasingly strong force in our community.
“Seven is the number for completeness and achievement — I feel this is the best time for me and the Chamber to begin a new path. Very soon I will be announcing a new business partnership, and I look forward to sharing this news with you and our community in the near future.
“Moving forward, I am committed to supporting a smooth transition and will be available as the Board and staff need me. The Board is strong, and the staff is outstanding. They are a cohesive team committed and dedicated to the work they do. I could not be prouder of them and their ability to continue the work that lies ahead.
“Although I am leaving this position, I will continue to be a part of Cullman County and a great supporter of the Chamber. So, this is not goodbye, just a new beginning.”
Chamber Chair T.J. Franey released the following statement regarding Ms. Bolin’s resignation:
“Cullman County is a better place to live, work and play because of the outstanding work Leah Bolin has done at the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center. Her leadership, passion and enthusiasm over the past seven years has transformed the Chamber and our community.
“Membership has doubled, and member retention is at an all-time high. Events such as 2nd Fridays, entrepreneurial programs like YEA! and the Business Resource Center (BRC) — which to date has created almost 300 jobs and funded $79 million in small business lending — and numerous other programs and events have given area businesses the tools and resources they need to thrive, now and well into the future.
“Our websites, social media platforms, digital apps and updated printed materials promoting tourism, business and industry throughout Cullman County have increased national awareness of the amazing opportunities our community has to offer.
“On behalf of the Chamber Board and its membership, I want to thank Leah for her hard work, dedication and love for our community. We wish her continued success in her future endeavors.
“The Chamber Board of Directors has begun the process of searching for a new president to carry on the work Leah and the Chamber staff do for members and communities throughout the Cullman area.”
