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Chamber News
Press Releases & News Updates

PRESS RELEASE: Hannah Hutton Named Full-Time Program Coordinator at the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce

4/22/2025

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The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Hannah Hutton has been promoted to full-time Program Coordinator. In this role, Hutton will support the Chamber’s growing event portfolio by managing the planning and execution of more than 60 programs and events annually. She will report directly to Kaytee Lorentzen, Director of Communications & Events.

“To meet the rising demand for high-quality programming and event execution, we created this new full-time position,” said Lorentzen. “Hannah has already proven herself as an invaluable asset in her part-time role. Her strong work ethic, creativity, and attention to detail have enhanced our events tremendously. I’m excited to see her thrive in this expanded capacity.”

Hutton joined the Chamber in Spring 2023 as the Events & Program Intern while studying Tourism, Hospitality, & Event Management with a minor in Media & Creative Advertising at Indiana University. She was then hired part-time at the Chamber while pursuing her studies full-time. During her tenure, she has contributed significantly to Chamber initiatives including Showcase Bloomington, the Women Excel Bloomington Awards, and the Chamber’s Member Appreciation campaigns. She also played a key role in redesigning the Chamber’s Impact Report and elevating the Chamber’s visual branding and marketing collateral.


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PRESS RELEASE: Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce Announces Organizational Plan to Enhance Member Experience and Operational Efficiency

1/21/2025

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Katie Sensabaugh, Vice President of Operations & Membership
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Christopher Emge, Senior Director of Government & Community Relations
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Stacia Briggs, Member Services Manager
​The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce has announced a new organizational plan to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen its commitment to delivering exceptional member experiences.

“Our new model realigns key leadership roles and adds a new full-time position to better support the Chamber’s mission and evolving strategic goals,” said Eric Spoonmore, President & CEO of the Chamber.

Effective immediately, the following organizational changes have been made:
  • Katie Sensabaugh has been named Vice President of Operations and Membership. In this role, she will oversee all aspects of the Chamber’s membership experience, including recruitment, retention, and stewardship, while continuing to lead operational strategies for the organization.
  • Christopher Emge has been promoted to Senior Director for Government and Community Relations. He will continue to lead the Chamber’s government affairs initiatives and will now oversee all aspects of the Chamber’s Success School programming, which serves over 4,200 local students.
  • Stacia Briggs has been promoted to Member Services Manager. She will oversee volunteer management, operational tasks, and member experience duties.

To support the Chamber’s growing event portfolio, a new full-time Program Coordinator position has been created. Reporting to Communications and Events Director Kaytee Lorentzen, this role will focus on managing 60 events annually.

“Our team of extraordinary professionals continues to lead the way in designing innovative programs, business resources, and advocacy strategies that benefit not only our members but also the greater community,” Spoonmore said. “The Chamber’s new organizational plan puts us  in a strong position for continued growth and success as we commence our 110th year serving the business community.”
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For more information about the Chamber’s programs and initiatives, please visit ChamberBloomington.org.
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PRESS RELEASE: Kaytee Lorentzen Awarded Prestigious Scholarship for U.S. Chamber’s Institute for Organizational Management

8/30/2024

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The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Kaytee Lorentzen, Director of Communications & Events, has been awarded a scholarship to attend the Institute for Organization Management (IOM), the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lorentzen will begin her first year at the Winter 2025 Institute, which will take place from January 5-9, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona.

IOM is a prestigious program designed to enhance the individual performance and elevate the professional standards of those working in associations, chambers of commerce, and other nonprofit organizations. The program’s curriculum, taught by university professors, industry experts, and leading practitioners, provides participants with comprehensive education in nonprofit management, including topics such as advocacy, membership, finance, and legal issues.

“I am honored to receive this scholarship and am excited to begin my journey with the Institute for Organization Management,” said Lorentzen. “This opportunity will allow me to expand my knowledge and skills, which will, in turn, help me better serve our Chamber members and the greater Bloomington community.”

Over the course of four years, participants of the Institute attend one session per year, each lasting five days, at locations across the country. Upon completion of the program, graduates receive the IOM Graduate Recognition, signifying 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management. Additionally, the curriculum is aligned with the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) and Certified Association Executive (CAE) certifications, allowing participants to earn credit hours towards these industry-recognized certifications


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PRESS RELEASE: Kaytee Lorentzen Named Director of Communications & Events for Bloomington Chamber

8/25/2023

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PictureKaytee Lorentzen, Director of Communications & Events
​The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that Kaytee Lorentzen, a dedicated professional with an extensive background in marketing and communications, has been named the new Director of Communications & Events. In her expanded role, Lorentzen will focus on executing strategies that will strengthen the Chamber's visibility, influence, and impact in the community. 

“Taking on the role of Director of Communications & Events is an exciting step for me," said Lorentzen. "I’m committed to building on what we’ve achieved at the Chamber, both in our events and our outreach. We have a great foundation, and I’m eager to contribute to our next chapter."

Since joining the Chamber in 2021, Lorentzen served as the Marketing & Communications Coordinator then as Marketing & Communications Manager earlier this year. Prior to working at the Chamber, her photography business was a Chamber member from 2016-2020. Lorentzen holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism with a concentration in photography from Ball State University. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in communications at Purdue University and expected to graduate this spring with a concentration in public relations and advertising along with a certificate in strategic communications management. In addition, Lorentzen is a graduate of the Indiana Chamber Executives Association’s Hoosier Chamber Academy.

“Kaytee Lorentzen has distinguished herself as a high-impact and valued resource to the Chamber and the members we serve,” said Chamber President and CEO Eric Spoonmore. “She is the perfect fit to lead the Chamber’s strategic communications, marketing initiatives, and event performance.” 
​
Lorentzen’s new assignment with the Chamber is effective September 1st. 

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PRESS RELEASE: Katie Sensabaugh Named Director of the Chamber’s Foundation & Internal Operations for Bloomington Chamber

4/27/2023

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Katie Sensabaugh was recently named the Director of the Chamber’s Foundation & Internal Operations for the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce. She will continue her role in the Success School, a division of the Chamber’s foundation working with community partners in both the education and business sectors of Monroe County to develop strong relationships with the students, teachers, and employers to positively impact the emerging talent and future workforce of our community. Sensabaugh will also oversee all financial activities, and its foundation.

“I am thrilled to continue my work at the Chamber as the Director of the Chamber’s Foundation & Internal Operations,” said Sensabaugh. I look forward to furthering the goals and missions of both the Chamber and its Foundation through effective programming and strong fiscal management.” 

Since joining the Chamber in 2021, Sensabaugh served as the Director of the Success School, and Membership Services Coordinator. She currently also serves as Chamber staff liaison to the Bloomington Women in Leadership group and Young Professionals Bloomington group. Sensabaugh’s previous roles include Program Director at Big Brothers Bigs Sisters of Northwest Ohio, Gemologist and Jewelry Designer for an independent jewelry store, and manager of a retail clothing store. She was recognized for her efforts to develop lasting professional relationships and provide excellent volunteer management and customer service to her clients. Sensabaugh received a bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University and a Certificate in Business Administration from Ivy Tech Community College-Bloomington.

“Katie Sensabaugh continues to add value to our organization and the members we serve,” said Chamber President and CEO Eric Spoonmore. “She is the perfect fit to manage our internal operations while also advancing the Chamber’s Foundation and Success School programming to new levels.”
​
Sensabaugh’s new assignment with the Chamber was effective April 1.

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PRESS RELEASE: Katie Sensabaugh Named Director of Success School for Bloomington Chamber

2/16/2022

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Katie Sensabaugh was recently named the Director of the Success School for the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce. As chair of the Chamber’s foundation, she will work with community partners in both the education and business sectors of Monroe County to develop strong relationships with the students, teachers, and employers to positively impact the emerging talent and future workforce of our community.
 
“I am thrilled to continue my work at the Chamber as the Director of the Success School,” said Sensabaugh. “I look forward to continuing the partnerships between our community’s business professionals and schools to ensure students develop the critical skills needed for their future life success.”
 
Prior to becoming the Director of the Success School, Sensabaugh served as Membership Services Coordinator at the Chamber. She currently also serves as Chamber staff liaison to the Bloomington Women in Leadership group. Sensabaugh’s previous roles include Program Director at Big Brothers Bigs Sisters of Northwest Ohio, Gemologist and Jewelry Designer for an independent jewelry store, and manager of a retail clothing store. She was recognized for her efforts to develop lasting professional relationships and provide excellent volunteer management and customer service to her clients. Sensabaugh received a bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University and a Certificate in Business Administration from Ivy Tech Community College-Bloomington.


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PRESS RELEASE: Christopher Emge Named Director of Advocacy & Public Policy for Bloomington Chamber

1/26/2022

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​Christopher Emge was recently named the Director of Advocacy & Public Policy for the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce. As chair of the Chamber’s advocacy division, he will work with Chamber members to raise the collective voice of business and advance issues of importance to the business community at the city, county, state, and federal levels.
 
"It is an honor to continue my service for the Chamber in a new capacity as Advocacy Director,” said Emge. “I look forward to working closely with our members and elected officials to enhance the Bloomington-Monroe County quality of place that we all hold dear." 
 
Prior to becoming the new Director of Advocacy & Public Policy, Emge served for three years as the Principal of the Success School, a program of the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce. He also currently serves as a member of the City of Bloomington Parking Commission and as an advisor for the Indiana University School of Public Administration Fellowship program. Emge is a past recipient of Arizona State University’s Social Embeddedness Award and holds two degrees from Indiana University, including a Master’s in Public Administration.
 
“We are delighted that Christopher will be leading the advocacy efforts for the Chamber,” said Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Eric Spoonmore. “His decades of experience in the public and non-profit sectors combined with his deep knowledge of local issues will deliver significant value for our members.”
Emge’s new assignment with the Chamber is effective January 31.

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PRESS RELEASE: Eric Spoonmore Named President and CEO of Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce

11/1/2021

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PictureEric Spoonmore
Eric Spoonmore has been named the President and CEO of the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce. Spoonmore formally accepted the offer extended by the organization’s board of directors. He will assume his new duties December 1, 2021. The announcement was made today by Chamber board chair Amy Somers Kopp.

Spoonmore currently serves as Monroe County Council President and as an Associate Director for Enrollment Management for the Kelley Direct MBA and MS Programs at the Indiana University Kelley School of Business in Bloomington. He received his Master’s degree in Public Affairs with a concentration in Local Government Management and a Bachelor’s of Science is in Public Affairs at the Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. Spoonmore is resigning from the Monroe County Council effective November 30, 2021.

“It is an extraordinary honor to have been selected as the next President and CEO of the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce,” said Spoonmore. “I am excited to begin this next phase of service in my career, and I look forward to working with the Chamber Board, our talented staff, and all our existing and future members to build upon the myriad successes achieved throughout our impressive 106-year history.” 

“Eric will bring a wonderful perspective to the Chamber gained from his vast experience in county government and experience at Indiana University,” said Somers Kopp. “We believe he is the perfect fit for continuing to keep the Chamber at the forefront of building a strong and stable business community in Monroe County.”
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The national executive search for The Chamber’s new President and CEO began in the summer of 2021 after Erin Predmore announced her impeding transition away from her role. Predmore will continue to lead the Chamber through the transition and will step down as President and CEO in December.

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The Chamber Welcomes Two Fellows from IU’s O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs

9/3/2021

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The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce welcomes Mary Lechner and Whitney Koelling from Indiana University's O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. Both Lechner and Koelling will be with the Chamber for two years. Lechner is the Vice Principal with the Chamber's Success School and working with Christopher Emge, Principal of the Success School. Koelling is the Public Policy Specialist for the Advocacy team and working with Mary Morgan, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy. 
Mary Lechner
​Mary Lechner is a first year MPA student at Indiana University's O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. She was born and raised in Indiana. Lechner attended Indiana University where she studied Sociology and Spanish. After graduating, Lechner served with AmeriCorps for two years as a college advisor for high school seniors where she worked with amazing students, many who were the first in their families to attend college. This experience fueled her passion in advocating for access to higher education and providing students with all the options and resources to be successful and pursue their passions. 
 
You can find Lechner spending her free time running and cycling around Bloomington or reading at a local coffee shop. 
 
Lechner is excited to partner with schools and meet the wonderful volunteers who make the work of the Success School possible. 

Whitney Koelling
​Whitney Koelling joins the Chamber from Indiana University’s O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA) Masters of Public Affairs (MPA) program. She is a Paul D. Coverdell Fellow who is using her experience from her Peace Corps service in the remote Pacific Islands of Samoa to work as part of our Advocacy Team. After having spent an extended period of time overseas, she is happy to call Bloomington her new home.

​Outside of work she loves to kayak on Lake Monroe, eat at many of Bloomington’s delicious local restaurants, and take her Rottweiler puppy to Switchyard Dog Park.  

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PRESS RELEASE: Bloomington Chamber Seeks President and CEO Candidates

7/21/2021

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​The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce is actively seeking candidates interested in the role of President and CEO. 
 
Purpose
The President and CEO of The Chamber is expected to be a key and effective community leader in Monroe County. Advancing the voice of commerce, playing a critical role in public policy development, strengthening the Chamber’s relevance, and providing opportunities to members to develop their businesses are core purposes of the role. The President and CEO is expected to develop strategy and see to timely tactical execution to achieve desired results for our members. Accordingly, the President is expected to select, develop, lead, and manage the Chamber staff, maintaining a collaborative environment. The President and CEO also plans, organizes, and directs all operations of the organization.  
 
To learn more about the Chamber, visit www.chamberbloomington.org.


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    Chamber News

    This blog contains press releases, other news updates from the Chamber, news articles and radio interviews featuring interviews with the Chamber and team members,  and much more!

    All press releases have been sent out to community organizations and news agencies. Downloadable version of these press releases are available at the end of each blog post.

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    For media inquires, please contact Director of Communications & Events, Kaytee Lorentzen.

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​The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce provides leadership through member engagement, business advocacy and civic partnerships to strengthen our community and business environment.

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