Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ouida Hargens, Thursday afternoon, announced she has resigned from her position. She has reportedly decided to resign to help her husband focus on his grain and livestock hedging business, and to pursue some other possible, future opportunities within the community.
In a statement, Hargens said “After careful consideration, I have decided to resign from my position of Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. I moved to Atlantic in March of 2013 to take the position of the Programs Director. By April my passion for the community resembled that of a long-time resident. In October, the same year, I took the position of the Executive Director. The community and membership has embraced me with open arms.”
She went on to say “Your support helped me to reach many of my career goals. Strengthening partnerships within the community through the collaborative website www.atlanticiowa.com. Growing the resources within the organization by securing three new Community Investors. Engaging members and volunteers in the Total Resource Campaign creating the most successful campaign two years in a row.”
“The goal of $90,000 was surpassed by $20,000, tripling the amount of funds previously raised. The $110,000 sponsorship campaign included participation of over 60% of our members.” The success of the campaign she said, has allowed for the addition of new programs and events to the community, as well as new memberships.
“All of these goals,” she said, “Were accomplished because of the support of the membership, community, and volunteers. Also, the time and dedication given by staff especially Chelsea Cousins, Alli Krogman and Bailey Smith, our current Program Director. All three were amazing, creative and talented women to work side by side with.”
Hargens closed by saying “Thank you again for all the opportunities and support.”