By SUE RYAN
News staff writer
January 16, 2008

The Hood River County Chamber of Commerce selected Mary Closson as its new director this week.

Closson, currently with the West Linn Chamber of Commerce, will begin her new duties in Hood River on Feb. 11. The chamber has 475 members, some of whom Closson will meet at its Thursday night installation banquet.

“The chamber’s executive search committee cast a broad net to attract qualified candidates in the Northwest,” said Mary Gumm, chair of the search committee.

“We received resumes from 40 interested applicants and it was quite a challenge to narrow the field. Mary Closson hit a home run during the selection process and we couldn’t be happier that she has accepted this leadership role.”

Closson brings more than 25 years of professional experience in marketing, public relations and media relations to her new role. She brings a unique skill set for presenting the benefits of Hood River County to the business and tourism markets. Her experience includes work as a television producer and director for NBC and CBS affiliates, a public relations professional for health care and high-tech firms and as management-level staff for two nonprofit organizations.

Closson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan in media communications.

“This position represents a professional passion for me because I really enjoy helping businesses succeed and communities thrive,” Closson said. “Hood River County has so much going for it already in terms of great retail, agriculture, energy, technology and tourism. I’m excited about working with the chamber’s board and staff to strengthen our partnerships and promote all the qualities that make Hood River County such a great place to live and work.”

Hood River County Chamber of Commerce’s annual Installation Banquet will be Thursday night at the Gorge Room of the Best Western Hood River Inn.

This year’s theme is “Monopoly,” chosen by incoming 2008 president John Kasberger of Columbia River Bank. Chamber directors will be installed and departing directors honored. The evening also features a silent auction, benefiting the chamber’s Leaders for Tomorrow program.