Bend Chamber Welcomes New Talent and Celebrates Staff Promotions

As the Bend Chamber of Commerce celebrates 100 years of advocating for Bend’s business community, the organization is also investing in the people who will help guide its next chapter. The Chamber is pleased to welcome two new staff members and announce seven recent promotions across the Chamber and BendNEXT Foundation.

Together, these additions and expanded roles strengthen the organization’s work in communications, events, operations, membership, sponsorship, leadership development and community engagement.

“Developing leaders is central to our work, and that commitment begins within our own organization,” said Sara Odendahl, CEO of the Bend Chamber. “These promotions recognize the initiative, expertise and care these team members bring to their work every day. We are also thrilled to welcome Mara and Hannah, whose experience and perspectives will help us continue creating meaningful connections and delivering value for our members.”

Welcoming New Team Members

Mara McCloskey-Becker joined the Chamber in May 2026 as Marketing & Social Media Specialist. McCloskey-Becker brings experience in audio and video production, strategic communications, brand storytelling and content creation. Her career has included broadcast media, agency and in-house marketing roles, and entrepreneurship, giving her a broad perspective on helping organizations connect with their audiences through authentic storytelling and meaningful engagement. In her role, she helps share the stories of Chamber members, programs and community partnerships across digital and social media channels.

Hannah Reynolds joined the Chamber in August 2026 as Events & Administrative Coordinator. Reynolds brings a background in public administration, community event coordination and relationship-building. Her experience ranges from serving as a Recreation Center Director for the City of San Diego to coordinating large-scale outdoor festivals and private events. She supports event logistics and administrative operations while helping create welcoming, well-organized experiences for Chamber members and guests.

Recognizing Staff Growth and Leadership

Chris Hart was promoted from Leadership Programs Manager to Executive Director of the BendNEXT Foundation in March 2026. During the year leading up to the transition, Hart worked closely with Talena Barker, the Chamber’s outgoing Vice President of Leadership Development, to ensure continuity and a seamless transfer of leadership. Barker concluded eight years of dedicated service to the Bend Chamber and BendNEXT Foundation, leaving a strong foundation for the organization’s next chapter. Hart brings experience in nonprofit executive leadership and a proven ability to convene community partners around complex challenges. In his expanded role, he leads the Foundation’s work to strengthen Central Oregon’s workforce through leadership and talent development, educational programming and cross-sector partnerships.

Lisa Nielsen was promoted from Marketing Lead to Marketing & Communications Director in April 2026 after six years with the Chamber. Nielsen leads the strategy, planning and execution of marketing and communications for both the Chamber and BendNEXT Foundation, supporting the organizations’ events, programs, advocacy, sponsorships, publications and member engagement. She has more than 30 years of experience in marketing, graphic design, communications and project management.

Julia Keyes was promoted from Operations Manager to Operations Director. Keyes brings two decades of experience in business management, strategic operations, human resources and financial leadership. Her experience building teams, managing budgets and improving organizational systems supports the Chamber’s ability to operate effectively and remain responsive to its members and partners.

Kathleen Quinney was promoted from Events & Programs Coordinator to Leadership Programs Lead. Quinney brings experience in public-facing roles across sports marketing, retail management and resort services, along with a passion for connecting people with resources that help individuals, families and businesses thrive. In her expanded role, she supports the continued delivery and growth of BendNEXT leadership programming.

Shelley Junker was promoted from Membership Lead to Membership Manager. During her 16 years with the Bend Chamber, Junker has built strong relationships throughout the local business community and developed a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Chamber members. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing and sales, she brings extensive knowledge and a member-focused approach to her expanded leadership role overseeing member engagement, support and relationship-building.

Colleen Prinster was promoted from Events Lead to Events & Community Impact Manager. Prinster’s background includes community-focused roles in healthcare, real estate, education and small-business management, as well as extensive involvement in civic and environmental stewardship. Her new role reflects an expanded focus on creating events and initiatives that connect Bend’s business community with the people, organizations and issues shaping the region.

Robin Cooper Engle was promoted from Sponsor Relations Lead to Sponsorship & Development Manager. Cooper Engle brings extensive experience in relationship-building and resource development, including 14 years with Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity, where she served as Vice President of Resource Development. In her expanded role, she leads sponsorship engagement and development partnerships that support the Chamber’s programs, events and community impact.

These new hires and promotions reflect the Chamber’s commitment to developing its team, recognizing strong performance and building the organizational capacity needed to serve Bend’s growing and evolving business community.

To view all Bend Chamber Team Members, please visit www.bendchamber.org/about/bend-chamber-staff .

This story is based on submitted information and has not been verified by our news team.