As I reflect on 2025, one thing is clear: this was a year of meaningful progress for Overland Park and for our Chamber.

Across membership, advocacy, economic development, and talent strategy, we saw achievements that strengthened our business community and advanced the goals of Opportunity Now. As President John F. Kennedy once said, “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” This year, our Chamber demonstrated what it looks like to embrace the future with purpose.

One of the year’s biggest announcements was Fiserv’s commitment to bring 2,000 new jobs to Overland Park, reinforcing our position as a national destination for financial technology talent and investment. In total, our economic development efforts supported 2,600 new jobs, nearly 250 retained jobs, and more than $138 million in capital investment. We also expanded support for small businesses and entrepreneurs, launched SizeUp, a free research and market insights tool for businesses in Overland Park and Johnson County, and completed more than 100 business retention and expansion visits.

This was also a year of innovation. We launched All in Overland Park, a dynamic platform showcasing the strengths of our community to businesses, talent, and visitors. Opportunity Now advanced key priorities, including skills-based hiring through Talent Reimagined, deeper partnerships with local school districts, and the Student Chamber pitch competition, where young entrepreneurs showcased remarkable ideas. More than 95 companies participated in Real World Learning, and concierge services provided customized support for talent attraction.

Leadership development remained a powerful differentiator for our Chamber, highlighted by two additional Leadership Overland Park graduates being elected to the City Council, including our former Board Chair Josh Beck. They join two LOP grads currently serving on the Council, along with one who retired in November—a clear sign of the program’s impact on civic engagement. I must give a special shout-out to the LOP Class of 2022 which is now represented by three members on the City Council!

We also strengthened our role as a bold advocate. From our successful DC Fly-In to the launch of a weekly Washington Update, we gave members real-time insight into issues shaping competitiveness. At the same time, we are mindful of shifting community sentiment around growth and taxation and remain committed to clearly articulating the value of a strong business environment.

It has been an honor to serve as Chair this year. Thank you for your partnership and your unwavering commitment to Overland Park’s future.