COATESVILLE — The Board of Directors of the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce announced this week the appointment of Rachel Cathell as the incoming Executive Director of the organization. Cathell will replace outgoing Executive, Donna Steltz who retires at the end of this year after 20 years at the helm.
Cathell has served as the Chamber’s Communications Coordinator for the past four years during which she strengthened the Chamber’s communication strategies and expanded outreach to the businesses and communities in western Chester County.
Additionally, she revitalized the Chamber’s regional branding tool, Chescowest.com in an effort to better promote the region.
Prior to coming to Pennsylvania, she managed membership development for the Cecil County Chamber of Commerce in Elkton, Maryland. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Digital Media and Publishing from Wilmington University.
“I’m honored by the confidence the Chamber leadership has shown by offering me this opportunity,” states Cathell. “Donna has been an incredible mentor and I’m looking forward to carrying on the great work she’s done to grow this organization.”
Steltz leaves the Chamber four times the size of when she assumed the leadership role in 2002 when membership consisted of 80 businesses. The Chamber now boasts nearly 400 business members, includes 24 municipalities, hosts more than 40 events per year, and enjoys positive and productive relationships with elected and appointed officials throughout the region and the state.
“Donna poured her heart and soul into this position,” notes Greg Vietri, President of the Board of Directors. “We took the search for her replacement very seriously, and unanimously believe that Rachel is the right person to move the Chamber into the future. We all wish Donna the very best in her retirement.”
Cathell will take over as the new Executive on January 1.