Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes Pritchett as president

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the recent appointment of Nevada, Mo., native Vicki Pritchett as its new president and chief executive officer.

Pritchett, who now lives in Bourbon County, comes to the chamber from KRPS Public Radio in Pittsburg, where she served for six years as the director of development. She previously served as director of Main Street Nevada, and also as managing editor of the Nevada Daily Mail, the Vernon County Times and the Vernon County Record.

Pritchett said Friday she spent most of her first day of work on Thursday in meetings, dealing with computer issues, and trying to acclimate herself to her new surroundings.

"I'm just trying to get my feet wet, and I've been learning a lot of transitional issues," she said. "I'm not sure of a lot of the issues in Fort Scott right now. My initial intent is just to get up to speed."

Pritchett received a bachelor's degree in socio-political communications with a minor in agriculture from Missouri State University in Springfield. She possesses a background in fundraising, communications and economic development, all qualifications that make her an excellent candidate for the position, FSACC Board Chairman Bob Marshall said in a statement.

"Vicki's education and career experience made her stand out as the person we wanted as our next president," Marshall said. "The recommendations we received from her references made us even more confident that she is the person for the job."

Pritchett said she brings a host of traits and professional experience to the table in her new job as the chamber's chief administrator.

"I think I bring a unique blend of skills with me," she said. "I've worked with non-profit organizations, in public relations and with various government entities. I also have experience in fund raising and event planning."

Members of the Fort Scott community have made her feel very comfortable the last few days as she attempts to become more familiar with her job and the community she will be spending much time working with, Pritchett said.

"They've been extremely welcoming, open and accepting, which I completely appreciate," she said. "I am excited to be in this position and work with the Fort Scott community. I plan to stay here."

Pritchett replaces former President and CEO Gary Emry, who left the position earlier this month to accept a job as city manager in Girard. Emry, who accepted the Girard job last month, had worked with the chamber since 2002. Pritchett was chosen out of a small group of qualified candidates that chamber officials began interviewing about a month ago.

The FSACC is a team of spirited and influential members comprised of volunteers and staff involved in every aspect of the community.

It is an effective volunteer non-profit organization committed to helping solve today's complex business and community problems and providing valuable service to its members.

Nearly 500 members from across Bourbon County provide the structure, volunteer leadership, professional staff and full-time office operation to implement an effective program to meet the needs of the community, a chamber statement said.