Hutchinson Chamber Board Announces New Prez/CEO

Hutchinson, MN – The Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Board of Directors has announced Valerie Mackenthun has accepted the position of President/CEO for the organization.

In a press release, the board states Mackenthun’s event planning experience and deep connections to Hutchinson made her the ideal candidate for the position.

More from the press release;

“Valerie’s enthusiasm and intentional community mindedness will serve the chamber and the community well,” said Adam Fink, Chamber Board Chair. “As we look forward to Val onboarding with the current staff; we feel confident she will be a successful leader.” Valerie will join Julie Gilmer, Director of Communications, in late August. She will work with current President/CEO, Mary Hodson, through a transition period which includes the largest chamber hosted event, the Hutchinson Arts and Crafts Festival, and hiring additional staff.

The Chamber board convened board and chamber members to create a search committee to fill Hodson’s position, after her announcement to retire by year end. Hodson has served in this role for twelve years.

Mackenthun has been involved in many community non-profits and events including Historic Hutchinson, RiverSong, Music in the Park, Empty Bowls, and ISD 423 PTO.

She is the co-owner of Compass Occasions, recently celebrating ten years of business. In 2020, they moved to Art’s Place to host events and meetings. With the addition of her past hospitality experience, Mackenthun has a deep understanding of the city of Hutchinson and brings a wealth of community relationships.