BUCYRUS — The Bucyrus Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has named Averee Richardson the new Executive Director.

With a background in journalism and marketing, Richardson comes to the Chamber from her most recent position as the communications associate for the Smart Electric Power Alliance, an education-based non-profit located in Washington, D.C.

“I am excited for our community that Averee is joining the team, here at the Bucyrus Area Chamber of Commerce,” says James Patrick, BACC Board Vice President. “She brings an enthusiastic, fresh outlook and is sure to continue and expand on the important work that Jessie began almost three years ago.”

Originally from Crawford County, Richardson obtained her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Utah Tech University in St. George, Utah, before becoming an award-winning journalist and newspaper editor. Richardson returned to Crawford County with her spouse and two dogs.

“Bucyrus is home to me,” she said. “I love this community, and when the time came to decide where to set down roots, Bucyrus was at the top of our list.”

Richardson succeeds Jessie Furner, who signed on with the Chamber in October 2019. Furner announced her departure in May 2022. Richardson is tasked with further advancing the vision to support local businesses, foster meaningful connections and provide tools to help the community thrive.

“In many ways, our local businesses are the lifeblood of Bucyrus,” Richardson said. “I am excited to be able to help support those businesses, and I am honored that the Board believes I can fill that need.”

Richardson is set to begin work in this role on July 11. She can be reached at [email protected].