Hockenberry is leaving Chamber

March 03, 2007|by JENNIFER FITCH

WAYNESBORO, PA. - The Greater Waynesboro Chamber of Commerce is losing its executive director just shy of her third anniversary with the entity she says is the "strongest advocate for business and the quality of life in Waynesboro."

"I'll miss everything," MaryBeth Hockenberry said.

Hockenberry is following her husband, Mike, to Hanover, Pa., where he is set to become the vice president of operations of the local hospital on March 12. Mike Hockenberry left his post as Waynesboro Hospital's director of allied services on Friday.

"We have met in 14 years, and in this job, some incredible people," MaryBeth Hockenberry said.

Her last day is April 30.

On Wednesday, the Chamber's 12-member board of directors will discuss the process for finding a replacement, Ronnie Martin said.

"As president of the board, we're sad to see MaryBeth and Mike leave town," Martin said. "They're good people."

He lauded Hockenberry's communication and organizational skills, and said the board will be seeking an enthusiastic person with a knowledge of the Waynesboro area.

During Hockenberry's tenure, the Chamber moved its offices, increased membership to 404, sold lots in the Wharf Road Industrial Park and became the daily contact point in efforts to hire a Main Street manager.

"I think my proudest accomplishment is that we took what had already been established and re-energized it," Hockenberry said.

The unexpected became a beloved portion of the job, she said.

"It's always something new every day. It's always about making something better," said Hockenberry, who estimated she has been to more than 80 ribbon-cutting ceremonies.

Hockenberry, who has a master's degree in business from Frostburg State University, became involved in several area organizations, including Vision 2015, Main Street Waynesboro Inc., Rotary Club of Waynesboro, Way Back Tourism, Waynesboro Industrial Development Authority and Waynesboro YMCA.

"You don't realize how much you're involved in until you leave," she said.

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