An Ohio University administrator became chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce Wednesday, just another step to build a relationship between the university and Athens businesses.
Becky Watts, chief of staff to OU President Roderick McDavis, received a wooden gavel Wednesday evening at the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce 2011 Annual Dinner, signifying the commencement of her one-year term as chair of the Board of Directors.
The Chamber of Commerce comprises businessmen and women from the Athens area that focus on promoting Athens businesses.
Watts previously served as vice chair of the Board of Directors. The Chamber of Commerce members voted to make her the new chair when Phil Meyer, the board’s previous chair, completed his term Wednesday.
“Athens is a great place to live and work and develop a business,” Meyer said. “(The chairmanship) has been a pretty easy job.”
Watts said that, as vice chair, she attended all of the board meetings but will now have the added responsibility of leading them. She also will be in contact with Wendy Jakmas, the salaried president of the Chamber of Commerce, more frequently.
The two will work together to find ways “that we can continue to advocate for the business community in Athens,” Watts said.
bv111010@ohio.edu
