Amanda Benfield, President and CEO of the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce, successfully completed the Institute for Organization Management (IOM) program through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on June 27, 2024.

The Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates since its commencement in 1921. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at four different university locations throughout the country. Amanda participated in the Southeast Institute, held at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia, beginning in 2021.  According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, “Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.”

Reflecting on her journey through the IOM program, Amanda shared, "There are no words that can express how I’ve grown, both personally and professionally, because of this program. It has been an honor to join a legacy of leaders dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities over the last four years.  I have built professional relationships and friendships that will last a lifetime."

Amanda has served as the LCCC President and CEO since July 2017, serving the County in various ways, while continuing to develop her knowledge and skills to drive economic growth and enhance the quality of life in Laurens County. With the knowledge gained from the IOM graduation and her dedication the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce is set for continued growth and success under Amanda’s leadership.