At the Carthage Chamber of Commerce, Julie Reams works with local businesses, leaders and citizens to improve the overall business climate by helping to foster economic development for a thriving community. “Julie consistently promotes Carthage in a way that makes everyone proud, strengthening community ties and fostering a sense of shared pride and collaboration,” said Cheryl Church, education and gallery director of Art Central, in her nomination.

Reams has been with the Carthage Chamber for three and a half years and has worked in the industry for 35 years. One initiative she launched is the monthly Empowering Women Luncheon, which is a way for women to get together and network. Its success has inspired her to start a similar series for men. “If we can provide these opportunities to come together, it puts food for thought,” Reams says. “It is making a difference.”

Other successful initiatives Reams has spearheaded include weekly Chamber Coffees, where she hears directly from the business community about their needs. Looking ahead, she hopes to see Carthage continue to prosper. She is always eager to try something new or switch gears when needed, and she’s constantly dreaming up new ideas and presenting them to her team. “If you have an active Chamber and can help businesses achieve their goals, the sky’s the limit,” she says. “It’s really amazing to be a part of that bigger picture.”