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November 9th, 2026
Niles, Michigan — The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce will host its annual State of the Economy breakfast, 2026 State of the Economy: New Faces, Key Places, on Wednesday, December 2, at The Grand LV, 104 N. 3rd St., in Niles. Doors open at 7:00 a.m.
With many of the leaders shaping the region new to their roles, this year's event gives business owners, educators, community leaders and residents a chance to hear directly from the people guiding education, local government and business in the year ahead.
New this year, the Education & Workforce Outlook panel will explore how local colleges and school districts are preparing students, strengthening the workforce and shaping the region's economic future. Panelists include:
- Dr. Ken Flowers, President | Lake Michigan College
- Dr. Klint Pleasant, President | Southwestern Michigan College
- Dr. Adam Burtsfield, Superintendent | Niles Community Schools
- Amanda Lezotte, Superintendent | Brandywine Community Schools
The panel will be moderated by Sarah Spoonholtz, Membership Director of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber.
The County & Local Leadership Outlook panel will spotlight leaders who have recently stepped into key roles across the region and the impact they are poised to have on the local economy. Panelists include Juan Ganum, Berrien County Administrator, and Marty Mechtenberg, Executive Director of the Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce. Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, will moderate.
"Our region is entering a new chapter, and many of the people leading it are new to their seats," said Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber. "State of the Economy gives our business community a chance to meet these leaders, hear their priorities firsthand, and build the relationships that will move Niles and Berrien County forward."
"As someone stepping into a new role myself, I know how much it matters to start with listening," said Marty Mechtenberg, the new Executive Director of the Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce. "From our classrooms to county government, the decisions being made right now will shape our workforce and our economy for years to come. There’s real value in having this conversation alongside fellow new leaders, and I hope our members will join us, bring their questions, and be part of what comes next for Greater Niles."
Event schedule
- 7:00 a.m. — Doors open
- 7:30 a.m. — Networking & Breakfast
- 8:00 a.m. — Welcome and Opening Remarks
- 8:10 a.m. — Panel 1: Education & Workforce Outlook
- 8:40 a.m. — Panel 2: County & Local Leadership Outlook
- 9:10 a.m. — Closing Remarks
Tickets are $30 for Chamber members and $55 for non-members. Seating is limited, and registration closes November 25. Register at https://bit.ly/26GNCSOTE
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