BONNYVILLE – The Bonnyville Chamber of Commerce has announced executive director Serina Lyons will be relocating to the United States for two years but will remain on board as a consultant.
Lyons said she wants to assure Chamber members that nothing is going to change for them, and that not only will she remain on board, but will be travelling back and forth to Bonnyville until she can return from her two years in the United States.
“This region is home to me. I am deeply rooted here . . . This place has such a strong sense of community, where we always build each other up, and we always show up for each other. The business community is the most resilient I've seen. And it's for that reason that this is the place where I want to call home,” said Lyons.
During the Nov. 26 Town of Bonnyville Council meeting, Coun. David Sharun commented on the executive director shift.
“As of April 1, our current executive director is going to be working remotely for the next two years, and the interim executive director is going to be Megan Wakefield - so congratulations to her for assuming that role for the next two years. I know she'll do a fantastic job,” said Sharun
The Bonnyville Chamber of Commerce released a statement on Nov. 15 stating that Lyons will continue to assist with “advocacy and operational efforts,” and spoke of their confidence in Wakefield as the interim executive director and the seamless transition of leadership.
“Megan brings a wealth of experience to the position, with 15 years of dedicated service to the Bonnyville Chamber. Her extensive knowledge of Chamber operations and deep commitment to the community will be invaluable as she takes on this new role,” reads the statement.
Lyons commented that all contact information remains relevant and said the Bonnyville Chamber has an excellent team.
“The Chamber is in absolutely great hands under Megan's leadership and my advisements, not to mention our incredible board of directors,” said Lyons.
Chamber President Lise Fielding said the chamber team will continue the work expected of them, and the Bonnyville Chamber remains dedicated to bringing value to the business community.
“The Bonnyville Chamber has recently hired a new employee to assist with member relations and marketing. Alyssa McKibbon has already proven to be a strong asset to the team and with her expertise. Megan’s knowledge of Chamber operations and Serina’s strategic guidance, the future of the Chamber remains steadfast,” stated the Bonnyville Chamber of Commerce.
Lyons said she is looking forward to the learning opportunities that the new arrangement will bring and spoke about how important the Bonnyville community is to her.
“One thing I always say - it's not very often that you find a Newfoundlander that doesn't want to go home . . . I am a Newfoundlander that has found a new home because of the sense of community, strength and perseverance of the people,” said Lyons.