Marina
After an impressive 25-year tenure, Jeanine McKenna, the President and CEO of the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce (EACC), has announced that she will be stepping down from her role.
Her final day with the Chamber will be July 16, 2025, marking the end of a significant chapter in her career. On July 21, 2025, she will transition into her new position as President of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation (GNWKCF).
Reflecting on Her Career
In her announcement, McKenna expressed her deep pride in serving the Emporia community. “It has truly been the honor of my life to serve both the Chamber and the community,” McKenna shared.
“During my time here, we’ve successfully launched Ignite Emporia, kicked off Little Lyons Childcare, and developed vital strategic partnerships that will fuel regional growth for many years to come.”
Key Achievements Under McKenna’s Leadership
McKenna’s leadership has been marked by several transformative initiatives, including:
- Ignite Emporia – A comprehensive economic development strategy focusing on housing, workforce development, and revitalization.
- Little Lyons Childcare – A critical project that involves repurposing the former Maynard School into a 24/7 childcare facility to address the community’s childcare needs.
- Strategic Partnerships – McKenna helped establish strong collaborations with Emporia State University, Flint Hills Technical College, and the Emporia Community Foundation, all aimed at advancing economic development, childcare, and housing initiatives.
The EACC Board, led by Lisa Kirmer, expressed strong confidence in the future of the Chamber, ensuring that the transition will be seamless and that ongoing projects will continue to thrive.
Acknowledging McKenna’s Leadership
Lisa Kirmer, the Board Chair, praised McKenna’s visionary leadership and tireless commitment.
“On behalf of the Board, I want to personally thank Jeanine for her dedication and remarkable leadership. Her contributions have paved the way for the Chamber’s continued success,” Kirmer stated.
Plans for Transition
A search for McKenna’s replacement will begin immediately, with senior Chamber staff stepping in to ensure the continued success of ongoing projects and provide ongoing support to Chamber members.
A New Chapter: Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation
McKenna is set to begin her new role as President of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation on July 21, 2025.
In this position, she will lead philanthropic efforts across 15 counties in northwest Kansas, supporting nearly 400 charitable funds in the region.
Jeanine McKenna’s departure from the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce marks the end of a remarkable era of growth and success.
Her leadership has significantly shaped the Chamber’s achievements, with impactful projects like Ignite Emporia and Little Lyons Childcare ensuring lasting benefits for the community.
As she transitions into her new role at the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, her legacy of dedication and vision will continue to inspire regional development.