Even the most active community members can feel overwhelmed when it comes to tracking key city and statewide issues. There are so many vital topics to keep abreast of, and staying informed of current issues, never mind acquiring a deep understanding of these topics, can be daunting for even the most avid news-consumers. The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce believes inviting the public to have a strong understanding of community issues helps our entire region thrive.
The Chamber hosts timely forums in the fall, winter, and spring months that are open to all; these events address unique topics, or provide insightful updates on the Capital Region. The first event in this series, taking place on September 14, invites community members to hear directly from Concord School District Superintendent, Kathleen Murphy, and Business Administrator, Jack Dunn, who will share major developments, policies, and programs in our city’s schools. The panelists will discuss the future of Rundlett Middle School and other capital projects, the school budget for 2023-2024, benefits and challenges of DEIJ initiatives in our schools, and answer audience questions. This event is generously sponsored by Cleveland, Waters and Bass, P.A.
On October 24, the Chamber will host another forum with prominent guest speaker Jeff Fuhrer. Fuhrer is former Executive Vice President and Director of Research at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, and recently published a book titled The Myth That Made Us: How False Beliefs about Racism and Meritocracy Broke Our Economy (and How to Fix It). This innovative presentation will dive into systemic racism’s role in shaping the U.S. economic system, and how to chart a way forward—offering equitable solutions that combat discrimination and economic imbalances. Fuhrer emphasizes embracing humility, research-based approaches, and community involvement as ways to improve economic opportunity.
The Chamber’s series of forums will continue through the fall, winter and spring with more insightful presentations. Past topics have included: Legislative Preview, an overview of key bills in the current legislative session, Economic Outlook, a data-driven presentation on the local and national economy, State of the City, a forum with City of Concord Mayor and City Manager on the latest capital projects and budget goals, and State of the State, a Q&A and overview of issues presented by the New Hampshire Governor.
Forum speakers often represent a wide range of industries, backgrounds, and perspectives. Whether the panel includes experts that work day-to-day with the city’s unhoused population, frontline healthcare workers, political experts, or civic leaders, the conversation is bound to spark the interest of anyone who is invested in the City of Concord’s wellbeing and future prosperity. Each event includes a Q&A session and networking time with attendees—local professionals and community members who are invested in these issues and motivated to create positive change.
All Chamber forums are recorded, allowing anyone in the community to access these valuable presentations. ConcordTV, Your Community Media Center typically brings a small film crew to capture the event. “We cannot thank ConcordTV enough for their ongoing support,” said Chamber President, Tim Sink. “These events often unveil exciting news for the city—announcements on new development projects, messages from prominent leaders, and timely information for business owners. There’s nothing like being in the room and speaking face-to-face with area leaders, but recording these presentations allows us to open up the conversations to a much larger audience,” continued Sink.
To stay informed of upcoming forums hosted by the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, visit concordnhchamber.com/event-calendar. All are welcome to register online or call (603) 224-2508 to sign up. Each event includes a delicious meal and opportunity to connect directly with forum speakers. The Chamber encourages anyone who is interested in gaining a deeper understanding of local issues, motivated to facilitate positive change, or holds a community leadership position to attend these impactful events.
Incorporated in 1919, New Hampshire’s state capital chamber of commerce—the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce—develops economic opportunities, strengthens the business climate and enhances quality of life in the Capital region.