Staff

Julie A. Reams

Julie A. Reams

President & CEO

 

Julie oversees the daily operations of the Chamber. Julie joined the Carthage Chamber of Commerce in January of 2022 serving as the President/CEO.

Julie has been involved with many Chambers including the Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Girard Chamber of Commerce, Andover Chamber of Commerce and Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. Because of her dedication to the Chamber industry, Julie has earned many awards and honors to help further the growth of business. Julie studied political science and is a former elected city council member, League of Kansas Municipalities Member, National League of Cities Small Cities Council Board Member, and accredited in many fields of economic development. Julie also, serves on many boards throughout the community and is a member of the Carthage Rotary Club earing her a Paul Harris Fellow and a Rotarian of the Year honor.

Julie strives to foster communication to local businesses, development membership enhancement and growth within the Chamber and outside organization. Serving the business community is top priority to Julie, while creating events, attracting groups, and educating visitors that come to town we are a great community to stay, eat and play, think of Carthage, MO first!

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Kate Schwab-Garren

Kate Schwab-Garren

Media & Community Engagement Coordinator

 

Kate brings an extensive background in marketing and communications to the Carthage Chamber of Commerce, with experience spanning several key organizations including the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce, Visit Topeka Inc., Downtown Topeka Inc., and the Greater Topeka Partnership in Topeka, Kansas.

Raised in Carthage, Kate has always felt deeply rooted in her hometown. Her pride in being from Carthage, MO, and her long-held aspiration to return and share her professional experience have shaped her passion for community connection and local growth.

As the Chamber’s Media & Community Engagement Coordinator, Kate helps develop strategic marketing and communications plans that promote Chamber events, support member businesses, and encourage community involvement. She takes great pride in building strong, lasting relationships and in identifying the best ways to support each business or organization’s unique needs.

Kate is dedicated to being an active part of the community she loves. She believes that by supporting local businesses, community members, and our youth, we can ensure a brighter tomorrow for Carthage, MO!

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Jackie Visneski

Jackie Visneski

Administrative Assistant

 

Jackie is an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Administrative Assistant with a passion for organization and helping teams run smoothly. Originally from beautiful Western New York, Jackie spent her early years surrounded by stunning lakes and vibrant seasons. In 2016, she made the exciting move to Missouri and has been loving the change of scenery ever since!

As the smiling face that greets you at the Carthage Chamber of Commerce, Jackie ensures members, visitors, and community partners feel welcomed the moment they walk through the door. She plays a vital role in keeping the Chamber running efficiently by managing office supplies, handling correspondence, coordinating events, and supporting various administrative tasks that help businesses and the local community thrive. Whether it’s assisting with membership inquiries, organizing Chamber events, or keeping operations on track, Jackie is always there with a friendly attitude and keen attention to detail.

Outside of work, Jackie loves exploring her new hometown in Missouri, trying out local restaurants, and enjoying the outdoors. She’s also a huge Kansas City Chiefs fan and adores spending time with her husband and beloved dogs.

Jackie is excited to continue her journey with the Carthage Chamber and looks forward to supporting its mission of fostering a strong and connected business community.

Email Jackie

"The Carthage Chamber has made an impressive impact on my business with the constant events and advertising opportunities they provide throughout the year. The Chamber staff is always willing to help promote any activity I may be having at my store. Small Business Saturday is a prime example!"

Willy Waggoner – Owner of Boomer’s BBQ & Catering

"Although I had experience in my field, I didn’t have many Carthage connections. Attending chamber events and helping on committees has introduced me to potential clients, affiliates, and friends. Those relationships have helped my business grow faster than I would have without help from the Carthage Chamber. "

Tyler Smith – Owner of T. Smith Insurance Agency

"What began as a business partnership with the Chamber has truly developed into some amazing interpersonal relationships with Chamber staff and other members. There are so many great nonprofit organizations in our area. I am thankful that my relationship with the Chamber has allowed me to be "top-of-mind" with a growing group of people."

Mike Brown – Executive Director at Big Brother’s Big Sisters of Jasper and Newton Counties

"The networking opportunities, resources, and support provided have been invaluable in helping promote and grow the YMCA brand in our community. Julie and her team are detailed and always fun to work with. I highly recommend becoming a chamber member to any business looking to establish strong connections and achieve long-term success in Carthage, MO."

Jonathan Roberts – CEO/Executive Director at the Fair Acres Family YMCA

"During an event at the Phelps House, a TV station news reporter showed up, camera in tow, and asked for an interview. I asked the reporter how he heard about the event - I'd been so busy and hadn't thought about notifying the TV stations. The reporter commented that they look through local Chamber event notices to see what's happening in the area that would be of interest to their viewing audience. We received a TV promotion and free advertisement thanks to the Carthage Chamber helping to spread the word about our events!"

Tommie Baldwin – Manager at the Phelps House

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