Rebecca Scholz knew she had big shoes to fill if chosen for the role held by Sandi Fleck, who led the Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce as its president for the past 22 years.

She officially took over that position this month, having served as the Director of Events, Programs and Engagement for the Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce. With that organization, she planned more than 100 events each year that encompassed a wide range of activities and marketing opportunities. All social media and email marketing were managed by Scholz, which allowed her to engage with many different types of businesses that relied on her to help them grow their business.

Scholz said a previous member of the Prior Lake Chamber made her aware of Fleck’s pending departure. The person who referred her spoke of how active the organization is, the closeness of the business community and praised the work her predecessor had done during her many years of service.

“It was his enthusiasm that enticed me to investigate the position,” said Scholz. “I was drawn to apply for all those same reasons, plus the Chamber’s mission to foster economic growth and development while advocating for the interests of the community. Knowing I could potentially represent over 500 diverse businesses and contribute to their successes, as well as the community as a whole, is what truly drove me to apply.”

Top goals for the new leader of the organization include developing a deeper understanding of the Prior Lake business community, enhancing member benefits and events, creating more ways in which members can get involved and to continue strengthening the partnerships with the city and community. She said she is excited to work with such a diverse business community and to continue to foster an environment for economic growth.

Scholz grew up in Eden Prairie and later attended the College of St. Benedict, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business management and minor in psychology, also earning a certificate in entrepreneurship. She enjoys spending time with her parents, siblings, in-laws, a niece and three nephews.

“The Prior Lake business community has been so incredibly welcoming,” Scholz said. “They have gone out of their way to stop in the Chamber office to meet me, offer help wherever needed in this time of transition, and everyone has been enthusiastic about the year to come.”