Leadership
Guiding the Future of Ottawa’s Business Community
The Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce is driven by a dedicated team of business leaders, innovators, and community advocates who work together to support economic growth and local businesses. Our executive staff, board members, and at-large board members bring a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to strengthening Ottawa’s business environment.
Through strategic leadership, advocacy, and collaboration, our Chamber leaders ensure that Ottawa remains a thriving place to live, work, and grow. Meet the team shaping the future of our business community below.
Chamber Staff
Jay McCracken
Executive Director
Caitlyn Tucker
Member Services Coordinator
2025 Ottawa Area Chamber Board Members
Executive Board
Carrie Herro
Chair
CardNetCo
Anna Wright
Vice Chair
Tangled Roots Brewing Company
Anthony Williams
Treasurer
Streator Onized Credit Union
Rich Crum
Past Chair
Heritage Harbor
Board Members-At-Large
Christy Carpenter
Caselli Insurance and Real Estate
Dr. Dan Farrell
Ottawa Chiropractic
Robert Hasty
City of Ottawa
Ron Henson
Ronald Henson State Farm
Chris Holtzman
R.S.R. & Co. Accounting & Tax Services
Dr. Dan Farrell
Ottawa Chiropractic
Jeanette Phalen
Illinois Valley Community College
Salina Palevo
Midland States Bank
Leslie Wisler
Inframetals
Ex-Officio Members
Tom Justice, Attorney
The Justice Law Firm
DeWayne Cronkright
Jeremiah Joe Coffee
Jenny Cottingham
Ottawa Dental Lab
Ottawa Chamber Board Responsibilities
The Ottawa Area Chamber Board is made up of elected, engaged, and dedicated business leaders who play a crucial role in guiding the Chamber’s mission and impact. Board members represent a diverse range of industries and membership levels, ensuring broad representation of Ottawa’s business community.
Key Responsibilities:
- Financial Oversight – Reviewing Chamber financials to ensure stability and growth.
- Policy & Decision-Making – Voting on major initiatives that shape the Chamber’s direction.
- Strategic Leadership – Setting priorities and fostering a thriving business environment.
Our Board members generously volunteer their time to ensure the Chamber remains a strong advocate for businesses, fosters economic growth, and supports the entire Ottawa community. We are deeply grateful for their leadership and dedication!
Chamber Ambassadors
Around 30 volunteers from Chamber member businesses make up the Chamber Ambassadors, who act as a welcoming committee and public relations group for the Chamber. Ambassadors are active and visible in the area by representing the Chamber at ribbon-cutting ceremonies, Business After Hours, and many other Chamber events- with their signature green jackets, of course.
