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Chamber Ambassadors

The Chamber Ambassadors are here to welcome you and your business and be your constant support system at the Callaway Chamber of Commerce. They consist of a group of over 25 business leaders or community partners that conduct complimentary groundbreaking or ribbon cutting ceremonies for any business opening, expanding or moving to a new location.

Why Be an Ambassador?

Being an ambassador is a great way to get involved and share your business with others!  As a Chamber Ambassador, you have the opportunity to meet, help, and welcome new members to our community – all while representing your business or organization.  You will network with other ambassadors, business leaders, and new residents, creating and fostering those connections to better your future.

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History of Callaway Ambassadors

The concept of Chamber Ambassadors came to Callaway County in 1989.  The idea was to have professional community leaders represent the Chamber at important Chamber and community events.  The initial group was carefully chosen as a cross representation of business, government, and education.  Many were still very active in their careers while others were close to retirement and could attend functions more easily.  About 20 members were initially chosen and agreed to purchase jackets that would be easily recognizable when they appeared.  Thus, causing many community members to refer to them as the “red coats”.    The initial group then voted to replace someone who resigned and after a few years voted to add to their numbers creating around 30 active Ambassadors.  This group was respected and maintained their genuine support of the Chamber throughout their service, many also became very good friends.  Their countless hours of service were vital to the growth and respect the Chamber held in the community.  (Courtesy of Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society).

Now with passing of time, the jackets are gone but the spirit and can-do attitude still resides in our Chamber Ambassadors.  Frequently you will see them at ribbon cuttings where they celebrate business milestones, or you will see them advocating for the Chamber and recruiting businesses to join.  Additionally, you will see them cheering the Chamber on at events where they are always eager to lend a helping hand.

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“I am honored to serve as an Ambassador supporting the Chamber in their efforts to provide information, encouragement and resources with our members.  Even in high school, I knew I wanted to be a part of making Callaway County a wonderful place to live and raise our families.”

- Debbie LaRue, The Callaway Bank

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“I love being an Ambassador because it allows me the opportunity to bring the community together and to celebrate the positive things going on in the community.”

- Judy Ebersole, Chamber Ambassador

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"I am proud to live in and be part of Callaway County. Businesses and the people are what drive our economy and community.  We are better together.”

- Kelly Borman, Smith Moore

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“I enjoy doing the ribbon cuttings: greeting new members and especially seeing the new business with their enthusiasm to be a part of our community.”

- Barb Huddleston, Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society

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“Having been in business 36 years, I always find it interesting and exciting hearing about a new business.”

- Carol Taylor, Chamber Ambassador

2024 Ambassadors

Cindy Baker: The SPOT

Andrea Bedrosian: Callaway County Health Department

Tami Benus: T Benus Associates

Kelly Borman: Smith Moore

Caleb Bowen: 247 Grit Fitness

Diane Buchli: Bookkeeping, Payroll and Taxes

Kyle Buettner: Exchange Bank

Tricia Case: The Callaway Bank

Wendy Coan

Karen Digh-Allen: Callaway County Public Administrator

Judy Ebersole

Taylor Edgar: Lauren Jungermann Agency

Blake Elsberry: Exchange Bank

Stacie Gove-Ortmeyer: Westminster College

Stephanie Groves: PFS Brands

Bruce Hackmann

Joe Holt: Riley Stingley Brazas PC

Barb Huddleston: Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society

Sara Jeffery: Coldwell Banker/Niedergerke & Co.

Lauren Jungermann: Lauren Jungermann Agency

James Kendall: Westminster College

Josh King: The Callaway Bank

Katie Kovets Walsworth Fulton

Macey Cole: Independent Stylist

Doc Kritzer

Susan Krumm

Marcia Lamons: Central Bank

Debbie LaRue: The Callaway Bank

Emily Leuther: B & E Enterprises

Sara McDaniel: YMCA of Callaway County

Hannah Mealy: Lauren Jungermanny Agency

Greg Newsom: United Credit Union

Rhiannon Niedergerke: Bombshells Salon & Spa

Kolby O'Dowd: Central Bank

Blaine McQuaid Pestle: Smith Moore

Marlene Railton: Debo Funeral Homes

Christopher Scott: Farmers Insurance - Christopher Scott Agency

Carol Taylor

Interested in becoming an Ambassador? Contact the Callaway Chamber at 573.642.3055 or email us at marketing@callawaychamber.net