President’s Message

“I have lived in Ashland for 32 years and marvel at the fact we are still here. My husband and I moved to the region for work and we both thought we would transfer and move again within a few years. It turns out we fell in love with this community, its people, the climate, and the wide variety of seasonal recreation opportunities. We opted to stay; to work and raise our family here.  

For a small town you will find that Ashland has a lot to offer. There is access to many cultural activities in theatre, music and the visual arts, and an outstanding university that not only serves its traditional student population but also supports many other educational programs from Pre-college & Youth Programs to seniors with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. 

Once you read the Living and Doing Business Guide I think you will discover why we have chosen to live here and how the Ashland Chamber of Commerce is a major contributor to Ashland’s success.  Serving on the Chamber Board I have seen firsthand how the Chamber is a leader in our community. How the Director and staff successfully work in collaboration with local businesses, our educational institutions, and the city, finding solutions to business problems and working to ensure their economic success.  It is a pleasure being a part of this community and I hope you will take the opportunity to visit Ashland and explore all we have to offer.” 

Mary Gardiner
​Chamber Board President (2017-19)
SOU International Programs