ROCHELLE — By unanimous vote, the Rochelle Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has named Chet Olson as its interim executive director, effective Aug. 5, 2019.

Olson served as the Mayor of Rochelle for 16 years from 2003-2019 and has over 40 years of experience working in communication services. He owns Olson Communication Services, a communications consulting business.     

“The Rochelle Chamber of Commerce has always been a major driver of business and economic development in the Greater Rochelle Region.”  Olson stated. “It is my honor and pleasure to work with the chamber in this new role and help move the organization forward as it continues to serve the great people and businesses of the community I love.”

Olson replaces former director Peggy Friday who served the chamber in a unique dual-role for nearly 10 years before returning to the City of Rochelle in January.  Olson will hold regular office hours at 1221 Currency Court, Suite A and can be reached at 815-562-4189 beginning Aug. 5.

"I am excited to welcome Chet as the interim director. He has always been a great supporter of the chamber and its programs,” said Tricia Herrera, chamber board president.  “I know he will be a great asset to the board and to our members as he brings extensive contacts, a strong knowledge of business, diverse government contacts and a passion to grow the organization and its reach.”

New board member

In addition, Jessica Morris, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, has been elected to the Rochelle Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors after an annual vote by its membership. 

Sarah Thuestad, executive director of the Rochelle Child Care Center, was also re-elected to the Board for a second term.

Morris recently moved back to the area with her husband, Ben, and daughter, Emily.  She is said she is excited to put down roots in Rochelle.

“I believe this city has a history that is important to preserve, as well as a future that cultivates opportunity and my goal is to learn from current chamber members and the community about what is important to them as a business or an individual,” said Morris.  “I plan to make it my due diligence to inspire ideas and create solutions to continue the growth and foundation of Rochelle.”

The Rochelle of Commerce was incorporated on Aug. 1, 1939 and will celebrate its 80^th anniversary this fall.