
Katelyn Barchowsky [Courtesy photo]
The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce will swear in Katelyn Barchowsky as its new Board Chair, along with new and returning Board Members, during its annual Inaugural Gala on June 28 at the Langham Huntington Hotel.
Barchowsky, the founder of Storied Lane Marketing in Pasadena, will be the youngest person to serve as the Chamber’s volunteer leader in its 136-year history. With over a decade of experience in industries such as hospitality, nonprofit, and retail, she brings expertise from her work at a local private club, a mid-size ad agency, and a Fortune 500 company.
In an interview with Pasadena Now, Barchowsky said she hopes to focus her tenure on increasing membership, boosting event attendance, and enhancing outreach efforts.
She also plans to review the Chamber’s marketing materials to ensure they effectively communicate the organization’s “great values and benefits” to prospective members.
Barchowsky said she intends to work collectively with the Board and staff on their vision for the future, examining how they envision what the Chamber will become in the years ahead and how they can continue to expand opportunities for members.
Through her current role as Vice Chair of Member Services, Barchowsky has gotten to know many members closely, which has helped her understand their needs. She emphasized the importance of serving all types of businesses in the community, from large corporations to small enterprises.
“I hope to be able to bridge our large and small business communities together and really make sure we’re focused on serving every type of member in our community,” she said.
The incoming Board Chair acknowledged the challenges of growing event attendance in the post-pandemic climate but expressed optimism about the Chamber’s momentum.
Barchowsky aims to provide more networking and educational opportunities for members to “get together and share ideas and do business together.”
The Chamber, she said, is also focused on the next generation of business leaders, understanding that everyone seeks connection, but they may see connection in different ways.
As the business world continues to evolve, particularly with the increasing influence of artificial intelligence, Barchowsky believes the Chamber’s role in supporting member prosperity and enhancing Pasadena’s business climate remains vital.
“Through our various committees and different members, we’ll be making sure that we’re staying true to that mission and that role,” she said.
Barchowsky also stressed the importance of collaboration with local organizations to foster economic development and create the best possible environment for businesses to thrive in Pasadena.
The Chamber will take a stance on issues that pertain to how they may affect businesses. She hopes that both current and prospective members will engage with the Chamber by attending at least one new event this year to build relationships within the community.
Tickets for the Inaugural Gala, which will also feature scholarship awards for foster youth and recognition of local businesses and nonprofits, are available by clicking here.
The hosted cocktail reception and silent auction for the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce Inaugural Gala will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the Langham Huntington Hotel in Pasadena. Dinner and the festive program will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Corporate tables cost $3000 and include ten seats at the Gala, signage and recognition at the event and in the event program. Individual tickets to the Inaugural Gala cost $275. Valet parking and a hosted cocktail reception are included along with a gourmet dinner.
Anyone wanting information can call the Chamber at (626) 795-3355 or visit the website at www.pasadena-chamber.org.