November 5 – 7, 2025
Walkers Bluff Casino Resort
777 Walkers Bluff Way, Carterville IL
Hosted by the Southern Illinois Chambers of Commerce
We welcome all chamber professionals from chambers of all sizes.
Learning and discussion will take place in general sessions, smaller breakouts, and peer-led roundtables.
MEET OUR 2025 Keynote & plenary Speakers
- Early Bird registration for IACCE members is $400 for the first atttendee from your chamber and $375 for each additional attendees from your chamber. The Early Registration Discount ends September 30.
- Regular registration for IACCE members is $425/$400
- Non-members coming soon
- Optional Add-ons:
- New to the Industry Pre-conference Session: IACCE member and non-members: $0
- Raffle tickets – 5 for $20 – supporting our scholarship program.
- Silent Auction donation – $25.
Registration includes conference sessions, social event and meals.
Questions? Contact Lisa Weitzel at lisa@iacce.org or (217) 585-2995.
Walkers Bluff Casino Resort
777 Walkers Bluff Way, Carterville
This resort opened in August 2023 and hosts 116 guest rooms and suites.
Onsite parking is available and free for guests.
Group rates (Good from 11/4/2025 to 11/07/2025) are $139/night for a Deluxe King and $149/night for a Deluxe Two Queen room. Suites are available for $419 a night.
Call at 618-993-7777 and use the group code ‘IACCE Conference’ If you have trouble, ask for group sales.
Group rate is available through October 23rd, 2025.
Contour Airlines has a direct flight from O’Hare to Marion. Amtrak also has a station in Carbondale. There will be transportation available to the resort from the train station and the airport.
Sponsoring IACCE’s annual conference is an exclusive opportunity for you to meet with chief executives and staff members representing chambers of commerce throughout Illinois. In addition to attending the conference for its professional development programs and networking experiences, these chamber of commerce leaders come seeking innovative solutions to challenges they face, and unique products or services that may further enhance their current benefit packages for their members.
Agenda
(subject to change)
8:00 a.m.
Registration opens
Pre-conference session
Introduction Into Leading Your Chamber
9:00–10:30 a.m.
Pre-conference session
ChamberMaster Users Session (Marion Room)
moderated by kaili harding, Westmont Chamber of Commerce
Peer-led session on solutions to your ChamberMaster issues
11:00 a.m.
Opening Networking Session (Ballroom)
The Real Deal: Get Real, Connect Better
Led by Katie Haas, IOM, Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce
Ready to mix a little self-discovery with some great conversation? This laid-back, self-guided activity is all about figuring out what drives you—your stressors, motivations, and what really matters. You’ll get to know yourself a bit better and connect with fellow chamber pros in a fun, meaningful way. It’s a great chance to share, listen, laugh, and learn what makes others tick, too. Walk away with fresh insights and new connections that can help you engage more deeply with your team, members, and peers.
11:30 a.m.
lunch
12:00 p.m.
Opening Plenary Session (Ballroom)
Horizon 2035: Linchpin, Timeless, and Timely Forces Shaping our Future
Panel session led by Angela Kay Larson, CEO, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce. Panelists: Rudy Flores/LIncoln Square/Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, Tasha Marsaglia/Plainfield/Shorewood Chamber of Commerce, Jessica Linder Gallo/Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, Amy Whiting-McCoy/Pekin Chamber, Bill Zens/Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce
This panel discussion will share the future-focused results of the deep dive discussion held at Leadership Summit.
1:15–2:15 p.m.
Concurrent Sessions
Forging the Future: Building a Skilled Workforce with the Heavy Metal Summer Experience (Marion Room)
Matt Duffy, IOM, ACE, Dekalb Chamber of commerce
Looking for innovative ways to address the skilled labor shortage in your community? Join us to learn about the Heavy Metal Summer Experience (HMSE), a proven, hands-on program that exposes high school students to rewarding careers in the trades. This workforce development initiative connects students with local manufacturing and fabrication businesses, allowing them to gain real-world skills in welding, machining, and fabrication. The HMSE is a powerful tool for creating a direct talent pipeline, introducing students to potential employers and apprenticeships from a young age. By championing this program, your Chamber of Commerce can play a vital role in strengthening the local economy and ensuring a skilled workforce for the future.
Energizing Your Ambassador Program: Strategies That Drive Engagement and Results (Herrin Room)
Melissa Boltz/Bolingbrook chamber of commerce
Join this session to share and discuss successful methods utilizing ambassadors to drive membership growth and engagement.Ambassadors are the heartbeat of a Chamber of Commerce—serving as liaisons, cheerleaders, and vital connectors within the business community. But how do you keep them consistently motivated, actively involved, and closely aligned with your Chamber’s mission?
Join Melissa Boltz, President & CEO of the Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce, as she leads a dynamic and interactive session focused on proven strategies for recruiting, training, and engaging Chamber Ambassadors. Melissa will also share how her Chamber achieved a 24% increase in membership renewal rates within the first year of implementing this revitalized Ambassador program.
Whether you’re building an Ambassador team from the ground up or looking to reinvigorate your current group, this session offers practical insights and real-world examples to help you transform your Ambassadors into powerful, mission-driven advocates for your Chamber.
Fueling Membership MomentumEvent Safety and Security: Layered Planning (Cambria Room)
Zack Sullivan, IOM, Geneseo Chamber of commerce
and Gene Karzin – Geneseo Police Department Deputy Chief of Police
Geneseo Chamber Executive Director Zack Sullivan, IOM and Geneseo Police Department Deputy Chief of Police Gene Karzin discuss the importance of creating a welcoming environment for guests at events while implementing safe and uniform emergency procedures between event stakeholders. Program will cover recent attacks and incidents at public events across the country, how Geneseo reviews these incidents in relation to Geneseo events, and how Geneseo prepares for event safety using lessons from previous incidents. Will outline how to create detailed operations plans to share between event stakeholders, and attendees will receive a blank template to use for their events. Program will outline the critical need for communication amongst emergency officials and event planners. Program will also cover potential funding resources available for event planners to cover costs of additional security measures. The goal of the program will be to equip attendees with the knowledge and resources needed to develop more comprehensive event security and emergency response plans of action for their communities and events.
2:15–3:00 p.m.
Break & Passport Blitz (Ballroom)
Meet with our conference sponsors to get your Passport Cards marked during this break – completed cards from this break ONLY will receive two chances for the end-of-conference drawing for a complementary registration for the 2026 IACCE Fall Conference.
3:00–4:00 p.m.
opening Keynote (Ballroom)
Raising the Lid: Leading with Influence, Advocacy & Purpose Across Generations
Darla Harms
Leadership isn’t just about having a seat at the table—it’s about knowing how to use your voice once you’re there. In this dynamic and interactive session designed for chamber professionals, we’ll explore the laws of leadership that lift your impact, not just your title. Through the lenses of influence, self-advocacy, and board savvy, we’ll tackle what it takes to lead across generational divides and elevate your leadership capacity (a.k.a. raise your “lid”). Packed with relatable stories, reflection questions, and a few laughs, this session will leave you equipped—and energized—to lead with purpose, communicate your worth, and drive meaningful change in your organization and community. Because let’s be honest: great leadership never goes out of style, but how we wear it matters more than ever.
6:00-8:00 p.m.
Social – Mountain Dew Park
A shuttle will take attendees to the Park beginning at 5:30 p.m. Following dinner and drinks, attendees can take a shuttle to downtown Marion or back to the hotel.
8:15 p.m.
New & younger Chamber People Outing
Extra “excursion” to engage new chamber pros and young chamber pros (under 40) following the Marion Downtown Visit on Wednesday night. The group will head to Carbondale to visit some college bars, learn about a new initiative to engage past alumni in economic development, and laugh about how there is never a dull moment in the rollercoaster ride we call “Chamber Life.” We will play some games and have mingling time to share and learn from our peers.
Details: Gathering to leave around 8:15pm, following Marion Outing; we will plan to be out 9-11pm in Carbondale. **There may be a transportation fee outside of conference.** Even if you just want more info, fill out the survey – we will confirm attendance closer to the excursion.
If you would like to come join the fun, please fill out this survey: https://form.jotform.com/253065188131050
7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
Breakfast (Ballroom)
7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
IACCE Board Meeting Breakfast (Marion Room)
8:30–9:30 a.m.
Concurrent Sessions
Empower Local Businesses. Grow Chamber Revenue (Marion Room)
ty Phillippay, Thatch
Learn how Thatch, through the ICHRA model, eliminates employer cost variation which often leads businesses to constantly seek other health insurance carriers. Thatch partners with local brokers to deliver a seamless experience including integration with payroll systems such as ADP and Paychex. Thatch offers a referral discount program for local chamber members.
From the Mic to the Table: A Practical Guide to Chamber Advocacy (Herrin Room)
Ian Tobin – Vice President/Director of Community Development, Lincoln Square/Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce
For Chambers of Commerce, showing up to public meetings or submitting comments is rarely enough to shape policy. Whether it’s a zoning decision, local ordinance, or state legislation, real influence comes from understanding when to act, who to engage, and how the process really works. This session offers a clear, practical guide for Chambers looking to build or strengthen their advocacy efforts. You’ll learn how to navigate the policy process, build political relationships, and organize your business community to make your voice count before decisions are already made.
Engaging Non-Traditional Businesses (Cambria Room)
Panel discussion with Jamie Green, Murphysboro Main Street, Kaili Harding, Westmont Chamber of Commerce and Bill Zens, Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development
Join this panel discussion to learn how Chambers and Main Street organizations are creating value that attracts and retains these non-traditional members. Discover real-world examples and strategies that turn one-time ribbon cuttings into lasting relationships.
Not every business fits neatly into the traditional Chamber or Main Street model—but that doesn’t mean they don’t belong. The key is building programs, benefits, and connections that speak to their unique needs.
Join this panel discussion to learn how Chambers and Main Street organizations are creating value that attracts and retains these non-traditional members. Discover real-world examples and strategies that turn one-time ribbon cuttings into lasting relationships.
Maximizing Member Value and Revenue: Partnering with Local Human Resources Consultants (Carbondale Room)
Amy Boston – Threology HR
This practical session will guide you through how to actively engage local Human Resources consultants to deliver real value to your members and boost chamber revenue. From hosting interactive workshops and offering one-on-one advisory sessions to creating customized HR programs, learn actionable strategies to integrate HR expertise into your services. Discover how these hands-on partnerships can strengthen member relationships while opening new revenue opportunities for your chamber.
9:45–10:45 a.m.
Concurrent Sessions
Onboarding Your Advocacy Efforts (Marion Room)
Robert Medler – Manager, Arizona Government Affairs, Western Growers Association
Protecting Your Chamber: The Value of an Employment Contract for Chamber Executives (Herrin Room)
Jon Ridler, Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce
Every chamber executive deserves clarity, stability, and protection for themselves and their chamber—and an employment contract is the key to all three. In this session, we’ll explore the importance of having a clearly defined employment agreement, what essential elements it should include, and how it benefits both the executive and the board.
You’ll learn how a contract sets clear expectations, defines compensation and evaluation processes, and establishes professional boundaries that protect both parties. This session will also discuss the employment contract designed specifically for IACCE Chamber Executives.
A Day In Your Shoes = Engagement & Revenue (Cambria Room)
Katie Koester – President & CEO, Effingham County Chamber of Commerce
Join this interactive panel discussion as we explore the concept of the freemium membership model for chambers. Panelists will share their research, insights, and potential strategies for implementation, each offering a brief presentation. We’ll conclude with an open group discussion to gather ideas, answer questions, and explore what this model could mean for your organization. ‘
What if your next big Chamber success story involved swapping your boardroom schedule for stocking shelves or dry needling? In this engaging and energizing session, Effingham County Chamber President & CEO Katie Koester shares how the Chamber’s hit video series, “A Day In Your Shoes,” went from an experiment to a full-blown, revenue-generating community favorite. Attendees will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Katie plans, films, promotes, and monetizes each job-swap adventure—from stocking health food shelves to learning forklift controls—while highlighting local businesses and driving up engagement. Whether you’re a solo exec or leading a large team, this session will give you the tools to create your own buzz-worthy spotlight series with just a smartphone and a big dose of curiosity.
Target Audience:
Presidents, CEOs, and Executive Directors of chambers of all sizes.
Marketing staff and content creators encouraged to attend with leadership, as implementation works best when both strategy and storytelling are aligned.
Attendees will leave with:
– A blueprint to build their own version of “A Day In Your Shoes”
– A plug-and-play shot list, filming checklist, and sample release form
– A ready-to-use sponsorship package to pitch to local businesses
– Tips & tricks for maximizing views, engagement, and reach on social media – A renewed sense of fun, community connection, and creative purpose in their Chamber work
11:00 a.m.
Lunch (Ballroom)
11:30 a.m.
Keynote Session (Ballroom)
The Freak Factor
David Rendall
Do you want more happiness, fulfillment, and energy? Do you want to dramatically improve your productivity and increase employee performance? Do you want to improve your relationships at work and at home?Our parents, teachers, and managers have told us that, if we want to succeed, we should find and fix our weaknesses. However, this is the wrong approach because each weakness is also a strength. Find out how to create outrageous personal and professional success by amplifying flaws, instead of denying them.
12:45 – 1:30 p.m.
Plenary Session (Ballroom)
Decoding the Economic Outlook with the St. Louis Fed
Charles S. Gascon – Economist and Research Officer, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
Get ready for an insightful and lively deep dive into what the numbers really mean for your community and business future. Join a speaker from the St. Louis Federal Reserve as they break down current economic trends, what’s on the horizon, and how it impacts chambers, members, and local economies. This session will cut through the jargon with clear explanations, real-world examples, and practical takeaways you can use to navigate uncertainty and plan ahead with confidence.
1:45-3:15 p.m.
Concurrent Sessions
How to Plus UP: Next Level Advocacy (Marion Room)
Robert Medler – Manager, Arizona Government Affairs, Western Growers Association
From Boardroom to Boom: Accelerating Chamber Growth with Insider Insight (Herrin Room)
Jessica Linder Gallo, IOM, ACE, CCE – President & CEO, Peoria Area chamber of Commerce
Stepping into a Chamber executive role can feel like stepping into at least five jobs at once: leader, strategist, HR manager, fundraiser, event planner, and community convener. Whether you come from the business world or a charitable nonprofit, this session will give you the framework, insights, and tools to confidently lead your organization forward.
Join Jessica Linder Gallo, CCE, IOM, ACE, President and CEO of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, for an information-packed and interactive workshop built specifically for new and emerging Chamber executives. Together, we will explore what makes Chambers unique in the nonprofit landscape and how to master the core mechanics of running a high-performing local association.
Participants will learn how to: Navigate governance, bylaws, and board relationships with confidence Build the right team and culture through intentional hiring and fair compensation Develop a clear strategy that connects directly to your mission and bottom line Apply insights from Horizon 2035 to future-proof your Chamber’s relevance and value
Attendees will leave with practical tools, real-world examples, and a renewed sense of clarity about how to lead boldly in their first years as a chamber executive.
How to Use AI to build Sponsorship Packages (Cambria Room)
Rudy Flores, President & CEO, Lincoln Square/Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce and VIrginia Jimenez, Marketing & Events Manager, DeKalb Chamber of COmmerce
Discover how one chamber of commerce reimagined its sponsorship program—combining teamwork, strategy, and artificial intelligence to build sponsorship packages that sell themselves.
In Part 1, learn how the chamber worked with staff to identify benefits, define sponsorship levels, and then used ChatGPT to craft compelling, value-driven descriptions that resonate with business partners.
In Part 2, see how those AI-enhanced descriptions were brought to life using Canva’s built-in AI tools to design visually engaging sponsorship materials that communicate value and drive results.
Walk away with practical steps, creative inspiration, and a clear roadmap for using AI to make your own sponsorship program more polished, persuasive, and profitable.
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Concurrent Sessions
Illinois Chamber & U.S. Chamber Legislative Update (Marion Room)
Ryan gleason, US Chamber of COmmerce & Desiree Bennyhoff, IOM, ACE, CCE, Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce
Join the session to learn about the legislative efforts taking place at the state and federal level
Understanding how to work with your local economic development Organization (Herrin Room)
Bryan Gay, Downers Grove Economic development Corporation
Join Bryan as he covers how to understand how economic development organizations are setup, how chambers and economic development organizations can easily find ways to find common ground and collaborate, and how to set up a strong ecosystem.
Empowerment in Action: Building a Successful and Profitable Women’s Conference (Cambria Room)
Christina Van Yperen, IOM, president & CEO and Lena Wickens – Events & Marketing Director, Grundy County Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Discover how one chamber of commerce turned a great idea into a signature event that empowers women, strengthens community connections, and generates meaningful revenue. This session walks through the process of developing a women’s event that aligns with your chamber’s mission while delivering measurable results.
Learn how to identify your target audience, secure impactful speakers and sponsors, and craft a program that inspires and engages attendees. You’ll also explore pricing strategies, marketing approaches, and operational insights that ensure financial sustainability year after year.
Whether you’re looking to launch a new women’s event or take an existing one to the next level, this session offers real-world examples, proven strategies, and creative ideas to make your conference both inspiring and profitable.
Big Impact, Bigger Revenue: Leveraging Billboards for Chamber Success (Carbondale Room)
John Mulholland – D.O.T. Outdoor
Looking for a creative, visible, and sustainable source of non-dues revenue? This session dives into how chambers of commerce are using billboards as powerful tools for both promotion and income. Learn how this billboard company showcases the impact on member value, community visibility, and the creates a revenue stream for your chamber.
6:00 p.m.
Cocktail hour (Ballroom)
6:30 p.m.
Cocktail Keynote (Ballroom)
Unlocking Entrepreneurial Magic: Engage, Educate, Empower
Chris Egelston
Discover the hidden entrepreneurial potential within us all! Blending inspiring stories, interactive magic, and practical strategies, Chris redefines entrepreneurship as creative problem-solving accessible to everyone—not just business founders. Attendees will discover the keys to engaging passion, fostering innovation, and empowering themselves and others to create real value in their organizations and communities. Perfect for inspiring audiences to embrace innovation and create a better future. This high-energy presentation promises actionable takeaways and unforgettable moments.
7:30 p.m.
Celebration & Awards Dinner (Ballroom)
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Breakfast (Ballroom)
9:00 – 9:45 a.m.
Plenary Session (Ballroom)
Proven Strategies for Growing Non-Dues Revenue
Scott Robertson – Growth Zone
Tired of relying solely on membership dues? Join Scott Robertson, GrowthZone’s director of strategic partnerships, for a dynamic session where he will share proven strategies to diversify and grow your non-dues revenue. From sponsorships to premium programs, you’ll discover actionable tactics to increase revenue without increasing dues.
10:00- 11:00 a.m.
Closing Keynote Session (Ballroom)
Posted. Not Perfect: How Real People Build Powerful Brands with Courage, Consistency, and Zero Filters
Nic Skovgaard and Dr. Travis Cripps
You don’t need a big budget to get big visibility, you need courage, consistency, and a willingness to hit “record.”
TEDx speaker Nic Skovgaard and pediatric dentist turned content powerhouse Dr. Travis Cripps offer a bold new framework for building visibility without losing your authenticity. It empowers chambers and small business leaders to stop waiting for the perfect post, perfect strategy, or perfect moment, and start showing up with real content that connects.
Through a mix of storytelling, proven frameworks, and straight-up encouragement, attendees will walk away with a renewed understanding of how to be visible in a noisy, mobile-first world.
This session is rooted in Nic and Travis’ core belief: if you truly believe your business helps people, staying invisible isn’t humility, it’s a disservice.
By shifting from “marketing mode” to storytelling mode, chambers and their members can finally build trust, earn attention, and unlock the visibility they deserve.
What Attendees Will Learn:
Why being “findable” matters more than being famous—and how to get there without burning out.
The power of mobile-first content and the vertical video revolution
How to identify and capture authentic, everyday moments that tell your brand story.
Why “Posted. Not Perfect.” is more than a mantra—it’s a movement
Practical tools to create more content with less stress How to empower your members to stop hiding and start showing up.
Why This Matters for Chambers: Chambers are the heartbeat of their communities, but too often, they struggle with the same visibility issues as their members.
This session equips leaders with the mindset and methods to confidently tell their own story, and to help businesses in their community do the same. It’s fast-paced, practical, inspiring, and tailored for those who wear 10 hats and need real results.’
thank you to our 2025 Sponsors
Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Cancellations
Should you need to cancel your registration, please email Lisa at lisa@iacce.org. Please note the following:
- If your cancellation is submitted before October 1, IACCE will refund the full registration fee.
- If the cancellation request is submitted on or after October 1, IACCE will refund 50% of the registration fee.
- No refunds will be issued after October 15.
IACCE reserves the right to make real-time changes to conference content and offerings as it deems necessary, and in such situations no refunds, partial refunds or alternative offers shall be made outside of the stated cancellation policy listed above.
Special conference policies
- By attending Fall Conference, you understand and accept your photo may be taken and used for promotional pieces.
- If COVID or other restrictions are enacted, IACCE will abide by all state requirements
Interested in speaking at our 2026 conference? Submit your session here.