About Us
The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce serves over 700 members of varying sizes in Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Riner, Shawsville, throughout Montgomery County, Virginia, and beyond in the New River Valley.
We are an advocate for our member businesses and serve as a marketing cooperative for each member.
We are an active chamber with programming to support and enhance networking opportunities, while also educating our member businesses.
Our Mission
Our mission is to promote a positive environment for the growth and operation of business and education of our members.
Our Core Values
In pursuit of our mission, we will:
- Enhance member success
- Create value for our members
- Build community
- Build and promote integrity
Our Vision
The Chamber's vision is to cultivate a thriving, vibrant, and diverse business community with a balanced and growing economy.
Chamber Staff
About Steve:
Steve joined the Chamber staff in December 2021 after retiring from state employment with Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control’s Bureau of Law Enforcement. There he served as the Special Agent in Charge of the Southwest portion of the state. While serving in that role Steve assisted retail establishments in obtaining alcohol licenses and promoted growth in the business community. His goal is to ensure the members of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce have the resources and training needed to succeed. Please reach out to Steve via email or phone (540) 382-3020 if you have any questions or ideas.
About Marissa:
A former educator and coach for nine years in both Virginia and South Carolina, Marissa joined the Chamber in October 2022, and serves as Vice President of Membership Engagement. Marissa grew up in the New River Valley and is passionate about helping individuals and businesses succeed. She advocates for our local community through Chamber resources to benefit the economy. She is the point of contact for sales, membership, events, and sponsorships through the Chamber. If you would like to set up a meeting to discuss involvement with the Chamber, please contact Marissa via email or the office phone number at (540) 382-3020.
About Alan:
With nearly a decade of experiences in marketing, production, and customer service, Alan joined the Chamber in August of 2023, and serves as the Director of Marketing & Communication. Alan moved to the New River Valley, along with his wife Rachel, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and decided to set down roots after discovering the passionate community that exists in Montgomery County. Alan has a deep dedication to the community, and spends a lot of time volunteering and supporting others in the business community. His goal is to help businesses of all sizes utilize their marketing channels to the best of their ability, and to help see the area continue to grow. Please reach out to Alan by email or phone (540) 382-3020 if you have any comments, questions, or concerns.
About Nancy:
Nancy Creed joined the Chamber of Commerce staff in 2025 after selling the small business she founded in 2015. Prior to owning her gift-service, Nancy worked in sales at various Hilton properties in the NRV. Her educational background includes a MA in Interpersonal and Public Communication which has fueled her passion to network with and connect people. Nancy’s favorite way to work in our community has been through organizations like the Chamber which offer abundant opportunities for face-to-face interaction. Nancy’s focus is to assist the Vice-President of Membership and to help our members maximize their memberships through effective networking. You can reach Nancy by email, or by phone at 540-382-3020.
Chamber of Commerce Interns
Lauren Durbin
Marketing & Communications Intern
About Lauren:
Lauren Durbin is from Winchester, Virginia and join the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce in September 2024, She is currently a senior studying Marketing Management at Virginia Tech. During her free time, Lauren enjoys cooking and spending time with her friends and family. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in Marketing.
Sarah Tchuma
Membership Intern
About Sarah:
Sarah Tchuma is from Stafford, Virginia, she's a sophomore studying Economics with a Business concentration and has a minor in Data & Decision Sciences. She joined the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce in September 2025, where she enjoys combining her passion for business and community engagement. Outside of school and work, Sarah loves exercising, exploring new places, and shopping.