My Why

The following is the transcript of the speech I gave when I accepted by position as President/CEO of The Chamber of Catawba County in February of 2017 at our Annual Shareholders & Investors Luncheon at the Hickory Metro Convention Center.

Good Afternoon everyone — first of all, thank you for honoring us by your presence today. It is sincerely a privilege to represent you in this role …….

I pray that each of you at some point receives the humbling blessing of such a warm reception as you have just shown me. Thank you for your overwhelming support over the past several months – the thoughtful encouragement in the form of comments, emails and handwritten notes that have been timely and appreciated.

There are so many things that come to mind that I could say, but I really just want to share my heart and passion with you for a moment. I hope to very briefly shed some light on the core of why I continue to make the intentional choice to pursue my lifework as a Chamber of Commerce professional…..all of which played into my recent decision to contend to remove the Interim from my title. Essentially, What is my why?

My why is hearing firsthand the story of a recent CVCC Manufacturing Academy graduate who has a greater sense of self-worth, a new set of skills and a new career with a steady paycheck to provide for his family.

My why is the little faces of future fireman, elected officials, pastors, administrative assistants, accountants, welders and doctors singing “I am a Leader hear me roar!” at the top of their lungs as I ventured through the hallways of Oxford Elementary School at their annual “Leader in Me” Leadership Day. This is our future workforce learning core leadership principles at a young age.

My why is the small business owner who isn’t here today because in order to step away she would have to close shop and risk losing a sale. In addition to carrying many titles, she carries many worries.

My why is the first generation US citizen, whose parents came to America in order for their children to live their best life. We cut a ribbon for their new business several months ago. The sense of pride on their faces and tears welled in their eyes as the ribbon fell was unforgettable.

My why is the hopeful entrepreneur at the Manufacturing Solutions Center who has dedicated all of their time and life savings to the next innovative product idea that will potentially revolutionize their industry.

My why is a note on the inside front cover of a self-published novel by a gentleman who said he wanted to personally deliver one of the first copies of his book to me because I listened, encouraged him and connected him to the proper resources he needed in order to finish it.

My why is a desire to continue the work of the legacy leaders gone before me. Sitting in our Board room and wishing the walls could talk and share about the decisions that have been made which have resulted in many of the things we benefit from today.

My why is looking into the sparkly blue eyes of my two year old and wanting him to possess the same love and pride for Catawba County, his home. And later, to reap the benefits of a thriving, vibrant community that is growing and full of opportunity.

I could truly go on and on….

I see this opportunity as a calling and a purpose, not a power play or for personal gain. My desire is to continue to be both a student and a teacher —- to actively listen and learn, while adding value, and solving critical community issues.

I will be a visionary, who sees beyond what presently is…..a change-maker and most importantly, a collaborator and teammate. I will continue to be inquisitive enough to ask why, and bold enough to suggest a better way.

I will continue to surround myself with individuals who have more experience, talent and wisdom than me. My amazing team – Pam, Jean, Lisa, Terra and Ryan. Our engaged Board of Directors. My mentors, My great, great Uncle Stine Isenhower, Danny Hearn, my mother, Michele Moritz and several others whom are in this room.

My why is all of you….
As I look around this room, I see a group of people who have a vision, a passion and a commitment toward an idea of what could be. You voluntarily and loyally support this organization by your time, talent and treasure. This is a community with a great deal to be proud of, but at the core, the concept of working together for the betterment of Catawba County and the competitiveness success of business is what drives us all.

In closing, I want you to realize what a privilege it is, and has been for the last seven years, to come alongside of you. Thank you for your continued support. I feel so proud and humbled to stand before you today and promise that I will continue to work hard each day on your behalf. Thank you.