Dani Esperanza, Athens Area Chamber of Commerce
Please join us in extending best wishes to Dani Esperanza, whose time leading the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce as President will end this month. Dani’s gift of gab and upbeat personality will be missed by the Chamber and the Athens business community as a whole.
Though Dani’s tenure as President was brief, they leave with a list of accomplishments. Taking over the presidency in January 2020, Dani led the Chamber through the early days of the pandemic, helping members navigate that uncertain time by coordinating information and connections regarding the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), distributing PPE, and assisting the Athens County Small Business Relief Fund. Dani also strengthened community partnerships, oversaw AUBA while they established parklets and DORA (Designated Outdoor Recreation Area) in Uptown Athens, and helped to create the Chamber’s new Business Advocacy Committee.
Dani’s official last day will be on Thursday, September 15, and their final act as President will be to kick-off the start of the Celebrate Athens Auction and Dinner. Dani’s successor, Kristin Miller, will be formally introduced as President to the membership that same night.
Dani leaves the membership with the following words: “It has been my honor to serve the Athens area business community, especially through such a time of monumental shifting. Eternally thankful to my Board of Directors who provided me mentorship, confidence, and challenges, especially to those who served as my chair. Natalie, thank you for your confidence, patience and support. David, I’m grateful for your quiet yet strong leadership full of empowerment. Kristi, your kind candor and optimistic perspective was invaluable.
I leave with pride in the bridges that I built that enabled the Chamber to assemble and be a part of teams, both private and public, that ensure the future of Athens will remain bright and steadfast. While I think not only of the past 3 years of my tenure as president, but of the over 50 years this organization championed our businesses, I am astounded and humbled.”
To share your congratulations and well-wishes with Dani, please feel free to stop by the Chamber office or send them an email: dani@athenschamber.com