Message From Wendell Verret, Incoming Chairperson

"I am excited about my year as chairman of the Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce. This is a very active chamber and I am looking forward to leading it through a year of continued adjustments as the board and staff offers local businesses and the community a solid tradition of programming to support Iberia Parish’s culture which is rooted in resiliency through its innovation, collaboration and work ethic.

For starters, even though the Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce was not able to offer its annual banquet as is tradition in January, we are still planning a traditional event for 2021. We have extended the deadline for submissions of Civic Service Award nominations and Business Impact Award applications to March 1. These awards are highlights of the annual banquet and staff will keep applicants posted regarding details of the banquet as they are confirmed. We will also continue with hybrid ribbon cuttings for members. Additionally, we are planning for an onsite World Championship Gumbo CookOff on October 9-10, 2021.

Because information and education are so important, the Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the UL Small Business Development Center to promote their free, online trainings for new and existing businesses. Be sure you are on the chamber’s email list to receive registration and details of each opportunity. Small business owners who are grounded in proven processes have the best chance of remaining resilient and even excelling in tough times.

With regard to annual board leadership changes, I am pleased to announced that Josh Pellerin owner of Copy Net is joining the executive committee as third vice chairman and Andree Schlicher, real estate agent with McGee Scott is joining the board at large. 

Join us at the chamber; it’s going to be a great year!