Meet Our New Board Chair: Amanda Merz
The SacAsian Chamber is proud to welcome a new Board Chair, Amanda Merz, the Community Impact Manager at SAFE Credit Union. She takes on this new role in 2023, a year which also marks the Chamber’s 30th anniversary since its founding in 1993. Amanda’s career demonstrates a commitment to advocacy, building community relationships, and leading by example. She has played a strong role in the Chamber’s workforce development efforts and will now lead our Board with her insight and expertise. Amanda chatted with us about what’s in store. Read more below.
Q: What are you most looking forward to in your new role as Board Chair?
A: I am looking forward to working with such an esteemed board and moving the mission of the Chamber forward, especially in supporting small businesses in our community. I love all the Chamber events from the Meet and Greets to the AAPI Night Market.
Q: How do you hope to see the Chamber participate in the Sacramento region’s progress throughout 2023
A: The Chamber has always contributed to the overall vibrancy of our community. Through these most recent challenging years, the Chamber never stopped fighting for equity and made purpose driven decisions to support those most vulnerable. My hope is to continue the work to help our community thrive by supporting businesses, providing thought leadership to our elected representatives, and developing young professionals through programs like the Catalyst Leadership Program.
Plus, I’m excited to celebrate the Chamber’s 30th anniversary and the regional work the organization has accomplished. This year will be a unique opportunity to reflect on the achievements the Chamber made during those three decades, and will also set the tone for our goals in the years to come.
Q: What is some key advice that has helped you throughout your career?
A: “When drinking the water, remember to thank those who dug the well.” We are all a culmination of those who came before us. When we remember this, our gratitude quota will always be high and our attitude always better.
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