Honoring a legacy, embracing change

Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce announces Teresa Detimore as next CEO

When former Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce CEO Dixie Johnson shared with staff, board members and the community that she had received a diagnosis of a Grade IV glioblastoma brain tumor, we knew change would come.

The community rallied behind Dixie, and Chamber staff and board members stepped up to cover necessary duties. When Dixie announced her resignation effective Dec. 31, 2024, we all respected her decision to focus on her health, treatment and family.

Tasked with selecting a new CEO for arguably the strongest Chamber of Commerce in the state, the Chamber Board of Directors knew the process mattered. We met to establish the job description, outline necessary skills and establish the process by which candidates would be considered.

This process included initial review of resumes, followed by select candidates participating in an interview with the Chamber’s executive committee. The field was further narrowed from there and candidates were asked to present their vision to the full Chamber Board of Directors.

Through this process, the Chamber Board of Directors had the opportunity to reflect on its role in the community and anticipated challenges. While some challenges mirror those of other nonprofits — fundraising, sustainability, growth and mission focus — others will be unique to the economic development opportunities in northeast Wyoming.

Change can be difficult, especially when entwined with a deep respect for a beloved leader, coworker and community advocate, but the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that longtime Chamber employee Teresa Detimore will soon take the reins within the organization.

Teresa has served as the Chamber’s program director for more than 15 years, learning the ins and outs of not only the organization and its mission, but also the Sheridan County business community, its people and its economic development issues. She has a deep understanding of the common challenges our businesses face and the Chamber’s role in bringing stakeholders together to overcome barriers. Beyond that, she has the respect of the current Chamber staff, elected officials and statewide officials.

As the Sheridan County Chamber Board of Directors, we are exceedingly confident in her ability to step in immediately to continue the Chamber’s mission as a catalyst for business prosperity and a champion for a stronger community.

While Dixie Johnson’s leadership and contributions will be missed and her legacy honored, we are excited for this next chapter in the Chamber’s story and eager to see the impact Teresa will have leading this organization.

The Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors includes President Aaron Sopko, Vice President Mikole Bede Soto, Treasurer Ron Lee, Immediate Past President Jen Crouse, Kristen Czaban, Butch Dillon, Jessie Dykhouse, Nadine Gale, Brady Lewis, Ty Malone and David Schwend.