The Observer Newspapers | New Leader Takes Helm at Chamber

July 4, 2008

New Leader Takes Helm at Chamber

By Leslie Perales
Observer Staff Writer

Jen Sterling, president of the locally based Hinge, said preparing for the future is her top priority as chairman of the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce's Board of Directors for 2008-2009. Sterling took over the chairman position, which was previously held by Mark Looney, last week.

One way she said she would plan for the future is by examining what types of changes might occur when the chamber's lease on its office space expires in about 18 months. Sterling said she also wanted to continue improving and building the INC.spire program, a business development initiative that the chamber launched a few years ago. "I'd like to definitely make sure that that continues to get pushed out of the nest in a positive way so it can fly on its own," Sterling said.

She said she would also like to boost membership in the chamber and increase the value of chamber membership for current members. Sterling said those are not the only tasks the chamber will focus on, but they are on the top of the list. Sterling said she also hopes that members of the chamber and the community offer suggestions on events and programs the chamber should offer and ways the chamber can improve.

Sterling's business Hinge provides marketing and branding services for engineering, information technology, accounting and law firms, among other businesses, and it often completes pro bono work for Reston organizations and nonprofits, Sterling said. Hinge has worked with Reston Interfaith, Friends of Reston, the Nature House and Initiative for Public Art-Reston. "I'm kind of addicted to it," she said. "I have a hard time saying no when I can feel the passion behind a project."

Looney, the chamber's previous chairman, said he was excited to have Sterling assume the leadership role in the chamber. "She is one of the most energetic and dynamic entrepreneurs I have ever met," he said. "She works incredibly hard at everything she does." He said he knows that when Sterling commits to do something she is reliable in sticking with those commitments.

Looney said his year leading the chamber was a whirlwind and a lot of responsibility. "I am pleased with where the organization is and enjoyed the opportunity and the privilege to serve the chamber in that respect," he said.

He said the past couple years have seen a lot of transition at the chamber and it has been able to come out of the transition "with a very bright future." Looney said the groundwork has been laid to build on their past success and take the chamber to the next level. He will continue to serve on the executive committee and board of directors.