2024 in Review
As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on a year of resiliency, growth, celebration, connection, and meaningful progress for the Boone business community. From the vibrant events that brought us together to the communications and marketing efforts that kept everyone informed, every team within the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce—our staff, volunteers, committees, and board members—worked in unison to support and strengthen our community throughout the year. Thanks to this collective effort, we were able to invest in initiatives that directly support local businesses, while our Foundation and member engagement efforts continued to encourage collaboration and innovation. None of this would have been possible without the support and commitment of our members, partners, and community leaders. Join us as we take a look back at the highlights and milestones of 2024 and the Chamber's 75th Year.
8th Annual High Country Economic Kickoff Luncheon
Wednesday, January 10 | Appalachian State University's Grandview Ballroom
A sold-out audience of over 300 Watauga County business leaders attended the 8th Annual High Country Economic Kickoff Luncheon. The 2023 Watauga County Business of the Year Awards were presented and three North Carolina and regional leaders spoke:
- Keynote presenter, Dr. Harry Davis, delivered his High Country Economic Forecast
- NC Chamber President/CEO, Gary Salamido, discussed economic trends in rural communities and how they are making small business voice heard by legislators.
- Lindsey Sullivan, lead facilitator for the STABLE Workplaces initiative, provided an overview of STABLE, and how businesses can engage with the effort.
8th Annual 4 Under 40 Awards
Wednesday, April 25 | Appalachian Theatre
In front of an event-record audience at the historic Appalachian Theatre in Downtown Boone, 16 emerging High Country’s leaders were highlighted, and five honorees earned top accolades during the 2024 4 Under 40 Awards ceremony. The evening included the presentation of the annual Respect Your Elder award, which was posthumously awarded to Dr. Kenneth Peacock.
4 Under 40 Award Winners:
- Business Owner: Rowen Todd, Mountain Vista Window Washing
- Non-Profit Business Professional: Jenn Bass, Executive Director, Hunger & Health Coalition
- Rising Star: Moss Brennan, Editor, Watauga Democrat
- Education Professional: Dr. Katie Wall, Associate Professor & Program Coordinator, Lees-McRae College
5th Annual Vision Northwest North Carolina
Thursday, May 23 | Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute - Watauga Campus
The 5th annual Vision Northwest North Carolina summit at Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute's Watauga Campus in Boone had an attendance of over 120 attendees. This year's event featured expert speakers and presenters, bringing thoughtful conversation and best practices to how AI and technology can be used for good throughout the region.
Keynote Speakers and Presentations:
- Zach Giglio, GCM: "Crafting an AI-Native Business: Essential Skills for the New Frontier"
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Cyrus Hurley, Chief Executive Officer, Zuryc: "The Impact of AI: From Resumes to Revolutions"
Spirit of Boone: 75th Annual Gathering
Thursday, September 12 | Appalachian State University's Grandview Ballroom
The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce hosted Spirit of Boone, its 75th Annual Membership Gathering on September 12, 2024 at Appalachian State's Grandview Ballroom. With a crowd of over 350 attendees, the evening served as tribute to the Chamber's 75th year and a fun-filled opportunity for connection and celebration.
The highlight of the event was a video presentation that honored the Chamber's nine annual community award winners, each highlighted for career achievements or their efforts on special projects. Outgoing Board of Directors Chair, Heidi Ragan, provided an introduction of incoming chair Mark Gould. The evening was capped with a silent auction and dancing to live music from Boone's-own Pressley Laton Band.
Important Links:
- 2024 Community Award Winners
- 2023-2024 Annual Report
- Boone Chamber's 75 Key Events
- Full Photo Album by Sydney Gail Photography
Watauga Women in Leadership Gala: Evergreen Voices
Thursday, November 21 | The Inn at Crestwood
An inspiring evening as we celebrating the strength and resilience of women in the High Country. This year’s panel will feature local women who have thrived in their careers and communities, sharing powerful stories of growth, perseverance, and leadership. Featured guests for the evening's discussion include Faye Cooper, Lisa Cooper, Addison Martin, Courtney Mattar, and Amy Forrester.
Two weeks after our 75th Spirit of Boone event, southern US and Western North Carolina faced unexpected devastation as Hurricane Helene swept through, leaving behind a lasting impact on our community.
Despite the difficulties—damaged homes, disrupted businesses, and a community in need—Boone’s spirit shone through. Neighbors supported one another, businesses offered aid, and local organizations quickly stepped in to help. In the weeks that followed, we saw firsthand the strength and resilience of our community as we worked together to recover and move forward.
Following the impact of Hurricane Helene, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and its Foundation were in a position to take swift action to support recovery efforts, including raising funds for business community stabilization and community support, coordinating a supply donation center, and keeping people informed through social media and other communication channels.
Supply Distribution
In partnership with The Summit Pickleball, the Chamber worked to address the urgent need for a centralized donation intake center. With the help of the generosity of The Summit owners, Crystal and Grant, and the warehouse’s spacious layout and accessibility, the venue was rapidly transformed into a hub for the influx of incoming supplies. This collaboration allowed for the efficient collection, sorting, and distribution of essential items to those affected by the disaster, ensuring that aid reached the community quickly and effectively.
Hurricane Helene Communications
The Chamber also leveraged their marketing channels such as social media to deliver daily updates featuring President/CEO David Jackson, a trusted local leader, to keep the community informed. With wifi and cell service down, cutting off the affected area from both each other and outsiders, these updates became critical for maintaining communication. In addition to the social media reels, important email communications ensured that vital information reached not only locals directly impacted but also visitors and those off the mountain who were eager to help. This approach provided real-time updates on relief efforts, donation needs, and available resources, helping bridge the communication gap at a time of isolation.
Impact of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation made its first post-Helene impact with its funds on October 3, by giving $125,000 to the Children's Council of Watauga County. This tuition assistance allocation kept licensed childcare centers open while relieving the financial burdens on families who could use their usual tuition dollars in other recovery ways. The Foundation also established the High Country Business Resiliency Disaster Grant to help small businesses in Watauga, Ashe, and Avery County recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene. With nearly 230 total requests received through Hope for the High Country: Hurricane Helene Business Resiliency Disaster Grants, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation has awarded 162 businesses disaster grant funding equaling $458,500.
Building Tomorrow, Together
In 2024, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce worked alongside our incredible members and partner organizations to support and strengthen our community. From responding to the challenges of Hurricane Helene to fostering collaboration and innovation, every step forward was made possible by the dedication of local businesses and the collective efforts of those who call Boone home. Nothing we achieved this year would have been possible without the unwavering support and commitment of our members, partners, and the entire community. As we look ahead, we remain grateful for these connections and excited for what we can accomplish together in the years to come.