During the conference, Susan Williams received the esteemed Keystone Award for her exceptional service as a Chamber of Commerce Executive.

Established in 1963, the award celebrates outstanding contributions to chamber management in Pennsylvania. It represents the highest honor bestowed by PACP and is only given when truly deserved. This year marked the 60th anniversary of the award, and for the first time in history, PACP acknowledged two outstanding Chamber leaders: Susan, the 29th recipient, and Bernard Dagenais, the 28th, President of The Main Line Chamber.

Gina Suydam, President of the Wyoming County Chamber and PACP Chair-Elect (pictured), spoke highly of Susan, stating, “Susan is a mentor, leader and friend in the Chamber industry. We worked together via Zoom during Covid, keeping each other apprised of business assistance and restrictions. We remain confidants 3 years after Covid is behind us. Susan embodies the Keystone Award being a true example of dedication to the Chamber profession and her community!”

Through Susan’s 19 years of invaluable leadership, the Chamber launched four innovative programs: FLEX, Be Here, Leadership Venango, and VenangoREADY. Susan also spearheaded the creation of a Chamber Foundation.

Susan’s impressive qualifications include the IOM designation, a nonprofit management training through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Institute for Organization Management. She is also a PA Certified Chamber Executive (PaCCE) designee, recognizing her significant contributions to the chamber field. As a board member of PACP for five years and Board Chair in 2013, Susan actively contributes to the growth and development of the chamber profession.

Reflecting on her journey, Susan expressed her gratitude, saying, “Serving the Chamber’s membership and the Venango community over the past two decades has been an incredible opportunity. I am continually encouraged and inspired by what we have achieved and what lies ahead.”

She humbly acknowledged her supportive staff and dedicated board leadership, recognizing their instrumental role in the chamber’s success. Susan feels honored to be recognized by her peers across the state, who share her commitment to advancing prosperity for businesses.

This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s December 2023 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.