Hagan named new Chamber of Commerce Director

The Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome Jennifer Hagan as their new Chamber Director.

“I did come from a family of entrepreneurs,” Hagan said. “I was born and raised here in Hallettsville so I’ve been a part of the community for generations. Growing up firsthand, I saw the dedication and what it took to run a business. That includes the sacrifices my mom and dad made and the sacrifices that my grandparents made. I’ve seen the deep connections between the business owners and the people that they serve.”

“My grandpa always emphasized three things that have always stuck with me and has been very important to me. That was ‘faith, family, and work.’ Those principles shaped my life. So, when the opportunity came to step into this role, I saw it as a chance to carry forward that legacy. It feels overwhelming, but also exciting at the same time. I’ve been a part of the community for a long time and have been very involved in the community. Having roots has been very helpful in getting to learn the process and getting to learn the job.”

Hagan is taking the place of the previous Chamber Director, JoAnn Shimek. She is transitioning from chamber board president to this new title. There are main goals Hagan hopes to achieve in this new position.

“I want to strengthen the foundation of the local businesses so they don’t just survive,” Hagan said. “They should truly thrive for generations. Being able to provide the resources and the support and the advocacy for local businesses is very important to me so that we can create a strong and sustainable economy.”

Hagan said there’s some big challenges facing local businesses today and she aims to address those challenges.

“That includes balancing traditions with modern trends,” Hagan said. “Those are some of the biggest challenges. A lot of these small businesses, especially in your rural community towns, have been run for traditions. The willingness to change is not always there. The willingness to adapt to some of the modern trends such as utilization of artificial intelligence, social media, or photography. Adapting to those new technologies is difficult for them and also, employee retention, is very difficult. Being here at the Chamber, I feel like we would be able to help with a lot of those struggles and challenges by being able to offer a lot of the marketing and advocacy and the advertising.”

Hagan said her work has many layers.

“For a lot of people, I don’t think they truly understand what the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center does for the community,” Hagan said. “We constantly have people coming in and out of the doors and the phones are ringing. I’m thankful that I have just recently got two new staff members. I also have a very supportive board and very supportive business members and community.”

Hagan said supporting local businesses is more than just about shopping; instead, it’s about preserving the heart of Hallettsville.

“It’s basically a ripple effect,” Hagan said. “When you chose to buy local, eat local, hire local services, you’re not just keeping that business open, but you’re upholding the values of ‘faith, family, and hard work.’”