Chamber president resigns

By ERICA JAHN

Staff writer

The Federal Way Chamber of Commerce is launching a search for a new leader following the sudden resignation of former president Dolores Shull.

Shull, who served as president of the chamber for about two years, quit without notice on Sept. 23. Members of the organization’s board of directors aren’t saying much about her resignation.

“Shull resigned to pursue other personal goals and interests,” said Bob Couper, chairman of the board, in a prepared statement released Sept. 25.

Shull was unavailable for comment.

Couper said the chamber probably will temporarily fill the vacancy for now and take time looking for a permanent president. He said the board doesn’t want to rush into any decisions.

“We want to put somebody strong in the position,” he said. “We want the most qualified person. We don’t want the person in the position to fail and we don’t want somebody floundering around.”

Until the board fills the vacancy, someone will serve as a temporary executive and “a lot of board members are helping out at this time,” he said.

The Chamber of Commerce serves as a communications and advocacy resource for the business community. Businesses pay dues to join, and the chamber in turn works on everything from business permitting to partnerships with local schools. Members recruit new businesses to the area and help existing businesses stay profitable.

The chamber runs several leadership development programs and many of its members serve on other community and city committees.

“We do a lot of things,” Couper said.

Everyone at the chamber volunteers except the president, who essentially manages the day-to-day operations of the organization, and a couple staff members. They receive a salary.

In addition to overseeing daily operations, the president works to advance the goals, objectives and programs of the board, like the Advancing Leadership program, chamber luncheons and the chamber’s after-hours events.

Questions can be directed to the Federal Way Chamber of Commerce at 838-2605.

Staff writer Erica Jahn can be reached at 925-5565 and ejahn@fedwaymirror.com

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