Each year, I choose a word to set my intention—a guiding anchor as we navigate the year ahead. For 2025, that word is HAPPEN.
HAPPEN is at the heart of everything we do at NACC. It’s not just a word; it’s our foundation for the year ahead. It represents what we commit to—ourselves, each other as a staff team, our Members, and our community.
We saw the spirit of HAPPEN in action just last Friday, January 31st, at our annual Board retreat. Our incoming 2025 Board Chair, Mario Lambert, led a dynamic and productive session centered around our mission: “To move Business Forward toward an engaged, thriving community by being Your Business Resource and Your Business Advocate for Our Community.”
The day was filled with collaboration, strategic discussions, and the energy that fuels our culture of action—action that can only happen when we understand where we’ve been, how we’ve evolved, and where we’re headed.
To deepen this conversation, we were honored to welcome Tom Miers, who led NACC as Board Chair in 1983, from our President’s Club. Tom shared invaluable insights on Chamber history and effective board leadership—reminding us of the legacy we uphold and the limitless potential ahead. Together, our Board and Staff make things HAPPEN.
We can only make things HAPPEN because of the people who believe in our mission, commit to our values, and show up—always.
Last month, we had the privilege of toasting Suzie Pschirrer, our Executive Member Engagement Coordinator and dedicated NACC staff member for five years, as she stepped into retirement. Suzie is preparing for an exciting new role—becoming a grandmother, with her first grandson due this month.
More than 150 people (and likely more—I stopped counting!) gathered at her retirement celebration to raise a glass in her honor. The Mayor issued a proclamation recognizing her contributions, and as a lasting tribute, NACC gifted Suzie a brick on the Naperville Riverwalk—a permanent symbol of her impact.
The overwhelming turnout (yes, even at a cash bar!) is a testament not only to Suzie’s influence but to the way she uplifted others—always giving, never expecting anything in return. She truly embodies our core values, and as she steps into this new chapter, we are honored that she will continue to be part of NACC as an Honorary Chamber Member.
Thank you, Suzie, for everything you have done for NACC, for our Members, and for me.
Suzie’s impact is a reminder of what makes NACC special—our people, our connections, and the way we show up for each other. As we move forward, NACC remains committed to being Your Business Resource and Your Advocate for Our Community—this year and always.
We’re not simply hoping for a great year; we’re committed to making it HAPPEN.