Meet the Chamber Board: Mikole Bede Soto

As someone who grew up in Sheridan stocking the shelves and cleaning the floors of her family’s downtown Sheridan business, Mikole Bede Soto gained an early appreciation for the impact small businesses have on the local community.

When she moved back to Sheridan after completing law school, Mikole chose to play a part in local business success by joining the Chamber board. She has served on the board since 2021 and is currently the board’s vice president.

Below, Mikole shares a bit about the vital role she believes the Chamber plays in local business success.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I grew up in Sheridan and returned to the community after completing law school. I am now a partner at Chapman Valdez & Lansing. I live in Sheridan with my husband, Austin, our daughter, dogs and horses. We like to spend as much time as possible outside and especially up in the Bighorn Mountains.

What is your role(s) with the Chamber board and/or committees and how long have you been serving on each?

I am currently the vice president of the Chamber. I have been a member of the Chamber board since 2021. I have served in the capacity of treasurer as well as vice president. I graduated from Leadership Sheridan County and have served on that committee.

Why do you volunteer for the Chamber and what impact has it had on you?

To me, the Chamber is a vital part of our community.  My family has been small business owners in Sheridan for the majority of my life. I grew up stocking shelves and cleaning floors in a family-run downtown Sheridan business. For all those years, I grew up looking out that small business’s windows and have seen how our community is shaped around our businesses. Businesses in this community are its lifeblood and make Sheridan stand out. The Chamber is integral in supporting thriving businesses. I am proud to serve alongside Chamber staff and other board members to ensure that those needs and goals are met.