Description

The Thurston County Chamber invites community members to its November Forum on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Saint Martin's University’s Norman Worthington Center in Lacey.

This special event will begin with a Non-Profit EXPO from 11:00 am to noon, providing attendees the opportunity to connect with local nonprofit organizations, explore services, and build relationships that strengthen community impact.

Following the EXPO, the program will feature keynote speaker Jeffrey R. Wilcox, CFRE, President and Chief Mission Advancement Officer of Interim Executives Academy (formerly Third Sector Company).

Wilcox is a nationally recognized nonprofit leader, grant-maker, and entrepreneur with decades of experience in executive leadership, fundraising, and nonprofit advancement. He has supported more than 900 nonprofits across the U.S. and Canada, guiding organizations through succession planning, interim leadership, and governance strategies. He is also the founder of Interim Executives Academy, which has trained nearly 1,000 leaders in strategic transitional leadership.

At the November Forum, Wilcox will share insights on:

• How strong, engaged boards lead to strong nonprofits and thriving organizations
• The evolving role of nonprofit boards
• Board service as an act of leadership and community stewardship
• What makes an effective board member
• How board service can strengthen professional growth, organizational health, and community resilience

"Board service is not only governance - it's an investment in the future of our community," said David Schaffert, Thurston Chamber President/CEO. “This forum is designed to engage seasoned leaders, young professionals, and those ready to step into service.”

Thank you to our November Forum EXPO and Presenting Sponsor: The Community Foundation of South Puget Sound! 

Additional Thanks to our location host, Saint Martin's University, and the culinary team at Bon Appétit!