Highlands Chamber of Commerce and
Visit Highlands, NC
The Chamber Board of Directors represent a cross-section of business and professional leadership in the community. The Chamber serves two primary purposes.
One as a Chamber of Commerce which provides leadership to support the local business community promoting favorable economic growth in the area.
The second purpose as Visit Highlands, NC (destination marketing) which informs, connects, and inspires our residents and visitors with the goal to drive destination economic impact, job creation, community sustainability, and quality of life. Genuine and unselfish interest in the Chamber and Visit Highlands, NC objectives is the first requirement for Board Members and Tourism Development Members.
Our Board is guided by our Missions, Visions and Values
Chamber
Mission: We strive to enhance and promote economic vitality and quality of life in the Highlands community.
Vision: To be the most valuable resource forging partnership between businesses and residents for prosperity while preserving the uniqueness of Highlands.
The Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors holds meetings on the third Tuesday every other month at 10:30am following the Visit Highlands, NC meeting in the Highlands Chamber of Commerce Conference Room.
Visit Highlands, NC
Mission: To promote travel to Highlands NC for the economic benefit of all.
Vision: To be a year-round destination for those seeking an authentic leisure experience that makes the most of the area’s resources and unique culture.
Values:
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Research-driven organization.
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Maintain brand consistency.
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Preserve the unique culture of Highlands.
The Macon County Tourism Development Commission meets quarterly. The next meeting is scheduled for, September 29th at 8:30am in the Highlands Chamber of Commerce Conference Room.
The Board of Directors for Visit Highlands, NC meets the third Tuesday every other month at 10am in the Highlands Chamber of Commerce Conference Room.
2023 Board of Directors
Chairperson
Trisha Cox - Berkshire Hathaway
Vice Chairperson
Blye Hunsinger - Old Edwards Inn
Treasurer
Elizabeth Swift - Swift Accounting
Past Chair
John Woods - The Park on Main
Directors
Shayna Bigazzi- Altaterra Events
Pat Gleeson - White Oak Realty
Leigh Hartman- Calder's Coffee
Brian Lewis - Highlands Smokehouse
Charlotte Muir - Highlands Biological Foundation
Mary Adair Trumbly - Highlands Performing Arts Center
Staff
Executive Director: Kaye McHan
Communications Manager: Kara Addy
Office Coordinator:
Business Services: Colleen Kerrigan
Events Manager: Tina Rogers
The Highlands Chamber of Commerce Board meetings are held the third Tuesday of all odd numbered months at 10:00am. Meetings are held at 108 main Street Highlands, NC.
Highlands Tourism Development Commission
James Tate- Macon County Commissioner
Jack Austin- Old Edwards Hospitality
Bill Futral- Futral Construction
John Woods- Skyline Lodge and Oak Steak House
Bill Bubenik- Wit's End
Kaye Craig- Ugly Dog Pub
Brian Stiehler- Town of Highlands Commissioner
The Highlands Tourism Development Commission will meet 8:30 am at 108 Main Street Highlands, NC on February 23rd, April 27th, August 24th, October 26th.
