Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Wins National Award for Excellence
October 18, 2024 – The Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Executive Director Acacia Pangilinan has been awarded the Executive of the Year for Chambers with 500 – 999 Members by the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada (CCEC) at their annual conference held in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This award is awarded to the chief staff person of a Chamber of Commerce / Board of Trade for outstanding performance and community leadership.
The prestigious award recognizes Acacia’s exceptional leadership and contributions to the growth and success of the Kamloops & District Chamber. Her efforts in championing Indigenous reconciliation, launching innovative initiatives such as the Workforce Conference and Job Fair, and driving local public policy discussions through active member engagement have distinguished her as a leader in the Chamber network. She has also successfully maintained the Chamber’s Accredited status, and obtained her Level 3 Accredited Chamber Executive designation.
Acacia’s commitment extends beyond the Kamloops region, where she has also contributed her expertise in various volunteer roles, including with the BC Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber of Commerce Executives of BC, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada.
“This recognition is truly an honor, and I am incredibly grateful to be acknowledged among such dedicated professionals,” said Acacia Pangilinan. “I owe this achievement to our amazing team at the Kamloops & District Chamber, our dedicated Board of Directors, my fantastic peers across the Chamber network and our incredible members, partners and business community who inspire me every day. This award is a reflection of our shared commitment to advancing the interests of our members and making a positive impact in our region.”
Cindy Piva, Board President, Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce
“We are so proud of the work Acacia does on behalf of our members! She goes above and beyond and is so passionate – this is so well- deserved! Congratulations Acacia!”
Deneen Belliveau, Executive Director, Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada
“Our award recipients are among the best Chamber leaders in Canada, with proven excellence in chamber management and operations, membership retention and growth, financial sustainability, contributions to the Chamber Network, and community leadership.
Ms. Pangilinan exemplifies excellence in the provincial and national Chamber Network and we’re thrilled to award her with the Executive of the Year Award for Chambers with 500-999 Members.”
Fiona Famulak, President and CEO, the BC Chamber of Commerce
“Local chambers of commerce and boards of trade are business champions, convenors and catalysts for change and the executives who lead them play an important role in our communities. Whether advocating for government policies that address the needs of business, developing innovative programs to support members, or leading charitable works that contribute to the social well-being of our communities, Acacia knows the hard work and dedication needed to lead a chamber of commerce. Congratulations Acacia.”
The Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce congratulates Acacia on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to continuing the journey of growth and innovation under her leadership.
Media Contact:
Acacia Pangilinan
Executive Director
Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce
P: 778-257-5900
E: acacia@kamloopschamber.ca
