Cary Matthews, Chair The Agri-Business committee works to enhance the position that agriculture plays in our economy through programs like the annual Agri-Business Breakfast and the NEA CPA Seminar. They also co-sponsor the Agri students for the annual Washington, D.C. trip and award the Farmer of the Year and Agri-Business Person of the Year at the Annual Chamber Meeting. Meets the second Tuesday at 4:00 pm.
Joe Turney, Chair The ASU Committee is responsible for enhancing the relationship between Arkansas State University and the business community. Each year, the week prior to the first home football game is 'Paint the Town Red' week. Festivities include a balloon launch, a decorating contest between local businesses, and The Big Great Wolf Pack Tailgate in downtown Jonesboro. The committee also participates in Preview Days and student athlete appreciation, and hosts a breakfast for High School counselors. New this year was the Red Hot Chili Pot Challenge.
Margaret Holloway, Chair The Business Network Committee is responsible for enhancing the local business climate through networking opportunities and specific events for our members. Speed Networking is a great way to meet new business contacts. Business Expo is the largest business to business event in Arkansas with over 250 booths. The committee also hosts Power Breakfast and the Summer Luncheon Seminar Series.
Scott Childers, Chair The goal of the Environment Committee is to improve the quality of life in Jonesboro and the region by organizing and supporting events and initiatives which educate the public regarding preservation and conservation of the region’s natural resources and the environment. Every year, they sponsor events like Earth Day and the Great Arkansas Clean-Up. New this year is the Go Green luncheon series which focuses on green methods for small business. Meets the second Wednesday at 4:00 pm.
Rhonda Cline, Chair Focused on developing specific projects and programs that enhance the relationship between the business community and government, this committee hosts the bi-annual Arkansas Legislative Dinner and the local elected officials’ reception. They also produce the Elected Officials Directory, assist with the annual Washington DC Fly-in tour, and host candidate forums. Meets the first Thursday at Noon.
Rusty Guinn,Chair This committee enhances recruitment and retention of Chamber members through New Member Luncheons, Chamber Partners and mentoring of members during their first year of involvement with the chamber. The committee also visits all existing members each year during 'Operation Thank You'.
Bobby Hogue, Chair The Transportation Committee works to obtain, share and act upon issues and needs in all matters related to city, state and federal funding and construction for streets, highways, public transportation and aviation. They work closely with our elected officials to determine priorities for Jonesboro’s transportation needs that will benefit our community and our region. Meets the first Monday at 4:00 pm.
Shanna French, Chair Workforce Development Committee enhances the relationship between business and public education through specific programs and projects with an emphasis on workforce development. They organize and promote the Arkansas Scholars program in Craighead County high schools, award elementary students through the Student Recognition program, and connect students to businesses through the Students Go To Work program.
Meets the first Wednesday at 4:00 pm.
Committees meet no more than once a month for about 1 - 1 1/2 hours. Special projects may occasionally require additional time. The chairs have been encouraged to set a regular meeting date that is convenient for the members of the committee.
If you are interested in joining any of the above committees, please contact Director of Business & Community Development, Tammy Pate at (870) 932-6691. Or, fill out the form below.