Elgin Area Chamber

Terry Gajewski
Vice President, Finance/Information Systems

Terry is responsible for overseeing all of the organization’s financial transactions, including, accounts receivables, accounts payables, monthly financial statements, yearly audits, purchasing, etc. She provides overall coordination and management of office activities, supervises and directs the office support staff.

Terry also has responsibility over the Chamber’s information systems, including maintaining and upgraded the organization’s computer systems and software processes, coordinating and maintaining the development of the Chamber's e-newsletter and web site, making the latter one of the top benefits of membership. The Chamber's web site is visited by 1,800 users a day, with most visiting our member posting within the Find a Business section.

Carol Gieske
President

Carol K. Gieske was appointed President of the Elgin Area Chamber at the beginning of 2012. Gieske has extensive leadership experience, serving as President of the Provena Saint Joseph Hospital Foundation for seven years before joining the Chamber as Vice President of Communications and Special Events in 2007. Prior to joining the Hospital, she was President of the United Way of Elgin from 1986 to 2001. As the chief executive officer of the Chamber, she is responsible for working with the Board of Directors and staff in delivering the mission of the Chamber to its members and the community. Carol also provides leadership in the area of communications and special events for EDG, EAC and its members.

Robert “Bob” Malm
Director - Elgin Development Group (EDG)

Bob manages the overall development process for the Advancing Progress campaign, a private fundingraising effort. He also plays a key role in the Chamber's Economic Development Division, Elgin Development Group (EDG). Bob is active in the EDG's Workforce Development Committee and is the editor of the EDG blog.

Contact Bob to find out more on the benefits of becoming an investor in Advancing Progress.

Jeanette Mihalec
Vice President, Membership

Jeanette is responsible for all aspects of membership programs for the Chamber. Her duties include new member recruitment and member retention, coordinating membership drives, hosting new member receptions, coordinating ribbon cuttings/grand openings, assisting with Business After Hours and advertising opportunities, certificates of origin, and other benefits and services the Chamber offers.

Jeanette serves as the staff liaison for the Ambassadors Club, Membership Council, our referral groups (E.A.R.N), the Membership Retention Committee, Latino outreach and coordinator our highly successful expos and our monthly Chamber Coffees.

Michael O’Kelley
Vice President - Economic Development Group (EDG)

Elgin is a fast-paced and high growth area and Michael's goal is to insure that your business thrives in this environment. Whether you're looking to expand, find a new business site or need to find a business solution call Michael – visit the Economic Development Group Website.