Geneseo Chamber of Commerce
About Us
Building Business. Strengthening Community.
The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce exists to support, connect, and advocate for the businesses that power our community. We are a member-driven organization committed to fostering economic growth, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring Geneseo remains a vibrant place to live, work, and do business.
At our core, we believe strong businesses create strong communities—and everything we do is built around that idea.
What We Do
We serve as a catalyst, connector, and champion for local business.
Advocate
We represent the collective voice of our members—working with local leaders and partners to support a healthy, pro-business environment and thoughtful community growth.
Connect
Relationships drive success. We create opportunities for members to build meaningful connections through events, programs, and everyday collaboration.
Promote
We actively promote our members and the Geneseo community—helping businesses gain visibility, attract customers, and grow their presence.
Support
From new entrepreneurs to established organizations, we provide resources, guidance, and opportunities that help businesses succeed at every stage.
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee provides leadership and strategic oversight, guiding the Chamber's direction and ensuring our programs deliver real value to members.
Jenna Rushing
President
Hanford Insurance Agency
Alex Joseph
Vice President
Springfield Armory
Jennifer West
Treasurer
Blackhawk Bank & Trust
Board of Directors
The Chamber is guided by a volunteer Board of Directors made up of local business and community leaders. This group provides strategic direction, sets priorities, and ensures the organization stays aligned with the needs of our members and the broader Geneseo community.
Collin Akers
Village Home Stores
Stephanie DeMay
Hammond-Henry Hospital
Brooke Emmerson
Geneseo Community Unit School District #228
Mark Grywacheksi
Quad Cities Investment Group, LLC
Tim Holevoet
Realtor, Re/Max Concepts
Brandon Maeglin
City of Geneseo – City Administrator
Tom Taylor
Edward Jones Investments
Sheilah Wigant-McGee
Sheilah Wigant-McGee Originals
Shanda Wood
Central Bank Illinois
Ben Young
Wisdom Financial Services, LLC
Chamber Staff
The Chamber is led by a dedicated staff member focused on delivering value to our members every day. Whether you're attending an event, looking for resources, or exploring membership, Lindsie is here to help you make the most of your Chamber experience.
Lindsie Akers
Executive Director
Lindsie leads the Chamber with a passion for community building and business advocacy. She's your first call for partnership opportunities, event coordination, and making the most of your Chamber membership.
Our Purpose
As a chamber of commerce, our role goes beyond individual businesses. We are part of a larger effort to create a thriving local economy and a connected community.
That means:
- Supporting business growth and retention
- Encouraging entrepreneurship
- Enhancing community development
- Bringing people together around shared goals
We measure our success not just by the strength of our membership—but by the strength of Geneseo itself.
Our Goal
Our goal is simple: to make Geneseo a better place to do business and a better place to live.
We do that by:
- Creating opportunities businesses can't access alone
- Building partnerships that move the community forward
- Delivering real, tangible value to our members
When our members succeed, our community succeeds.
Be Part of It
The Chamber is powered by the businesses and people who choose to be involved. Whether you're a small business owner, a growing company, or a community partner, there's a place for you here.
Together, we're shaping the future of Geneseo.