JoAnn Shimek announces resignation as Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

After about eight years as Executive Director of the Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce, JoAnn Shimek has announced her resignation from her role.

“This job has been very rewarding,” Shimek said. “Meeting new people and working with the business community has been extraordinary. Being that friendly face of Hallettsville and letting people know we’re here to serve them has been great. I will miss being Executive Director dearly. It’s been my baby for eight years and I will miss it. It’s very bittersweet. Although this job was chaotic at times, I enjoyed it dearly.”

The Executive Director does a lot of heavy work for the Chamber.

“I look at it as a ‘jack of all trades, master of none’ type role,” Shimek said. “It’s a lot. I don’t think people realize how much the Chamber actually does from day-to-day operations to people coming in and out wanting to know more about Hallettsville as well as advertising our chamber members and businesses. Outside of the day-to-day operations, I also plan events, recruit new members, and am that friendly face of Hallettsville. I try very hard to offer hospitality to the best of my ability to make people feel welcome here.”

Shimek is resigning due to the time constraints her role takes.

“It takes a lot of time,” Shimek said. “It’s not an 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. job, you don’t just get to go home at the end of the day. There are weeknight events, weekend events, and a lot of meetings during and after hours. I’ve been available for organizations when they want me there and it’s a lot of hours. While I had enjoyed it thoroughly, it’s time for me to get back to a normal routine. I also want to spend more time with my family.”

There is no announcement on who Shimek’s successor will be, but she has some advice for the person who will assume that position.

“Be kind and enjoy the job,” Shimek said. “Go above and beyond to show the community that we’re here in every capacity available.”

People have been supportive of Shimek’s decision to resign.

“People have been very kind and saying they will miss me here,” Shimek said. “They’re very happy I’m taking on a new adventure and doing something else.”

Looking forward, Shimek will be the new Admissions Coordinator for both Hallettsville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Stevens Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Hallettsville

“I was in the medical field years ago, so I’m looking forward to being back in that aspect of it,” Shimek said. “I also love the elderly, so I’m glad to be a friendly face for them.”

Chamber President Jennifer Hagan had some words to say about Shimek’s resignation in a press report.

“JoAnn (Shimek) has been a remarkable leader, guiding us through numerous challenges and achievements,” Hagan said. “She has fostered a culture of growth, collaboration, and community, leaving a lasting impact on our organization and its members. We will miss her dedication, and passion but wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”

“To honor JoAnn Shimek and celebrate her accomplishments, we invite you to a farewell ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. The event will take place at the chamber of commerce and visitor’s center lobby. This will be an opportunity for all members to express their gratitude and share memories, as well as to wish JoAnn Shimek well as she embarks on a new chapter.”

This ceremony will be open to all members of the community.