The Western Association of Chamber Executives has named Napa Chamber of Commerce President/CEO, Lisa Batto, to their Board of Directors. W.A.C.E. is an association of chamber of commerce executives and staff professionals designed to promote and enhance the professional development of chamber of commerce executives. With approximately 800 members from fifteen Western States, W.A.C.E. is the largest state or regional association of chamber of commerce executives in the United States.

Ms. Batto is the 44th chief executive in the 122-year history of the Napa Chamber of Commerce. She has been with the chamber since April, 2003, and was named the Executive Vice President in October, 2006. She is a graduate of the W.A.C.E.’s Chamber Academy, which is a three year professional executive training program. In 2008, Batto was one of only two non-CEO’s to receive her Accredited Chamber Executive (ACE) designation from W.A.C.E.

“I’m proud to represent the Napa Chamber of Commerce on a board specifically purposed to promote professional development among the industry,” says Batto of this recent honor. She has remained involved with W.A.C.E.’s efforts since earning her ACE designation, serving on both their Academy Steering Committee and on their Foundation Board. Of her commitment for the next three years Lisa has this to say; “Serving on the W.A.C.E. board is an exciting experience for me. This year, I’ll be working on a committee to update the website with new technology and give it a fresh look. When I first came to the Napa Chamber of Commerce nearly eight years ago improving the website was my priority. It’s nice to have this opportunity to engage my creative side, the things I learn through collaboration, may just show up on the Napa Chamber of Commerce website too!”

When contacted Dave Kilby, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs of the CalChamber and President of W.A.C.E. was thrilled to have Lisa joining the team; “Lisa is the kind of executive who we can count on to bring new ideas to the W.A.C.E. Board, not to mention that she will definitely help provide geographic representation for Northern California and significantly the wine country.”

More about W.A.C.E.
Purpose: To enhance and promote the professional growth and competence of Chamber of Commerce Executives.
History: Incorporated in 1924, the association has played a significant role in the growth and development of chamber of commerce professionals, including management assistance for new chamber executives and other staff. Over the years, membership has become synonymous with access to a network of experienced chamber executives and exposure to emerging trends and usable ideas on every facet of chamber of commerce management. In 1995 the association dropped its California boundary and became the Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E.). http://www.waceonline.com/