the chamber

Accessible – We want it to be easier than ever to reach and work with the Chamber. If you have any questions or concerns, we’ll stop by your business or set up an in-person meeting as soon as possible.

Supportive – Our team is equipped to answer questions about licensing, permitting, financing, special events, social media, marketing, eco-improvements, and much more. We know that our members and businesses are doing more with less these days – and we want to support your business needs in any way we can.

Creative – Similar to the small business owners we work to support, we will continue to think outside the box in order to make Andersonville a special neighborhood and destination for all.

Andersonville Chamber of Commerce
The purpose of the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce is to foster a vibrant environment in which Andersonville businesses can thrive by attracting a diverse customer base; providing business support services and advocacy; and engaging in business attraction, long-range planning, and economic development.

the staff

The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce staff is committed to accessible, supportive, and creative work.

Laura Austin - she/her/hers

Executive Director
773-728-2995
laustin@andersonville.org

Hometown: Chicago, IL

Background: While still in charge of running ACC events as well as managing community relationships, Laura will now serve as the ACC Board liaison and co-manage City and Ward relations. Laura joined the Chamber team in February 2017. She has ten years experience running events, five for the Chamber, and five in the non-profit school sector and has a background in teaching. Laura was a resident of the Andersonville & Uptown area for 15 years and is proud to be working in the place she called home.

Contact Laura About: ACC Board inquiries, Andersonville special events, community outreach, Andersonville social justice work, Midsommarfest opportunities, school partnerships, and community collaboration.

David Oakes - he/him/his/they/them

Director of Business Services & District Manager
773-728-2995
doakes@andersonville.org

Hometown: Chicago, IL

Background: Our “concierge to the business community,” David will continue in his regular duties along with taking on high-level economic development, managing SSA #22 and co-managing City and Ward relations. David began serving the Andersonville business community in his current role in February 2017. He has worked for Andersonville in multiple capacities over the years, having primarily served as one of the Andersonville Farmers Market Managers since its inception in 2009. He comes from a background in environmental science and culinary and is excited about out-of-the-box business attraction and community development in Andersonville.

Contact David About: Membership inquires, available retail space, business rebates and SSA incentives, long-term business attraction, SSA boundaries and management, neighborhood development and more.

Matt Junger - he/him

Marketing & Graphics Manager
773-728-2995
mjunger@andersonville.org

Hometown: Denver, CO

Background: Matt moved to Chicago in 2021 and quickly joined the Chamber's small team. Since his move, he continues to explore Andersonville and find all of his favorite spots. On the Chamber team, Matt is in charge of Marketing and Graphic Design for physical and digital collateral for our robust calendar of events. His background is in sustainability, landscape design, and graphic design; Matt looks forward to continuing to serve the Chamber and Andersonville community with all of their graphic needs.

Contact Matt About: graphics support and assistance

Lexie Lannom - she/her

Administrative Services Manager
773-728-2995
alannom@andersonville.org

Hometown:

 

Contact Lexie About: membership services, website content, and business promotions

2023 committees

The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce is governed by an active Board of Directors and various committees that oversee program development. Any active member of the Chamber can join a committee. If you have questions or are interested in joining a committee, please contact Laura Austin at laustin@andersonville.org Committee descriptions are listed below.


board of directors 2023

Searah Deysach

Early to Bed
Chair

Ronna Hoffberg

5443 North Broadway Commercial Building
Vice Chair

Hallie Borden

Milk Handmade and Honey Bridal
Secretary

Karin Moen Abercrombie

Swedish American Museum
Treasurer

Barbara Janusek

State Farm Insurance
Board Member

Caitlin Botsios

Helix Cafe
Board Member

Carol Jones

Metz + Jones LLC
Board Member

Dean Hervochon

The Go To Gay Guy
Board Member

Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth

Chicago Dance Supply
Board Member

Lindsey Anderson

Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar and Fromagerie & Tasting Room
Board Member

Mark Liberson

Replay & Elixir
Board Member

Steve Satek

Great Lakes Clinical Trials
Board Member

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