The Depoe Bay Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the addition of their new Chamber Manager, Mellissa Sumner. Mellissa has a passion for connecting people and businesses with over 20 years’ experience in tourism, sales, marketing, education, hospitality, events, and non-profit management. Mellissa will be a great resource to the Depoe Bay business community, through proven leadership skills and a passion for networking. She plans to support local businesses in their pandemic recovery and continued growth to position organizations for immediate and long-term success.
Guest services are a top priority for Mellissa, who has a proven track record for turning any situation into a positive one. Mellissa is currently working at the Lincoln City Chamber of Commerce and is excited to expand her expertise to the Depoe Bay community. Fast-paced environments are where she thrives and Mellissa is looking forward to the opportunity to serve both the Lincoln City and Depoe Bay Chambers of Commerce. “We’re very happy Mellissa will be managing our Chamber along with supporting the Lincoln City Chamber, which will greatly benefit both communities. Her extensive event management experience will help us quickly regain what’s been lost with many canceled large community events.
We look forward to putting Mellissa’s many talents and great energy to work for Depoe Bay and our members,” stated Depoe Bay Chamber Board President Bill Johnson.
Laura Furgurson, who has served as the Chamber’s Executive Director for over 2 years, will continue part-time with the Depoe Bay Chamber as an Economic Development Manager. In this position, Laura will lead the business assistance tactics outlined in a 2021 Economic Development grant from Lincoln County.
In addition, to this new Chamber role, Ms. Furgurson is serving as the Blue Economy Innovation Catalyst with Oregon RAIN, in partnership with Hatfield Marine Science Center, to build and grow the maritime industry in Oregon. Johnson added, “Laura has done a great job getting our Chamber to the next level by expanding membership benefits, adding substantial grant funding, and effectively marketing Depoe Bay as a destination. We are excited she’ll be continuing to support local businesses, along with those throughout the state in her new position.”
