PRESS RELEASE

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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Contact: Nathan Dorsey, Board Chair, Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce

board@kearneycoc.org

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Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Board Chair Provides Update on CEO Search Process

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KEARNEY, NE – January 26, 2026 – Following the recent announcement that Derek Rusher will step down as President and CEO of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce on February 17, 2026, Board Chair Nathan Dorsey provided an update on the transition process and search for the organization's next leader.

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"On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, I want to thank Derek for his exceptional leadership over the past eight years," said Dorsey. "Derek has positioned the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce as one of the strongest chambers in Nebraska, and his work has created a legacy that will make this role highly attractive to qualified candidates across the region."

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The Board of Directors recognizes that hiring the next President and CEO is a crucial decision for the Chamber and the entire Kearney Area. To ensure a thorough and deliberate process, the Board has already begun taking significant steps forward.

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"We are not taking this responsibility lightly," Dorsey explained. "We have begun forming a hiring committee composed of Board members and community stakeholders, and we've engaged in conversations with two professional search firms to potentially assist us in finding the best possible candidate. We are working diligently to establish a comprehensive process that will identify the future leader of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce."

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The Board anticipates that the President and CEO position will be highly attractive given the Chamber's strong reputation, engaged membership base, and momentum in the community. Potential candidates are encouraged to monitor the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce website at www.kearneycoc.org for the official job posting, which is tentatively scheduled to be published in early February.

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In addition to the search process, the Chamber is finalizing an agreement with Rusher to continue facilitating the next class of Rising Stars, the Chamber's flagship professional leadership development program.

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"We're pleased that Derek has agreed to continue his involvement with Rising Stars," said Dorsey. "This program has been transformative for emerging leaders in our community, and we look forward to another successful class."

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The Board will announce further details regarding interim leadership arrangements following Rusher's departure on February 17. Additional updates on the transition process will be shared with members and the community as information becomes available.

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"I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the Chamber staff for their dedication and professionalism during this transition," Dorsey added. "Their willingness to continue leading the Chamber's day-to-day operations and serving our membership demonstrates the strength of this organization. We have an exceptional team, and I'm confident in their ability to maintain our momentum."

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The Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce remains committed to serving as the principal advocate of the business community and continuing its mission of promoting the success and profitability of its members and improving quality of life in the Kearney area.

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"Thank you to our members, community partners, and all who support the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce," concluded Dorsey. "Your continued support during this transition is invaluable, and we look forward to ushering in the next chapter of Chamber leadership."

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For more information about the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.kearneycoc.org or call (308) 237-3101.

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About the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce

The Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce serves as the principal advocate of the business community, acting as the catalyst in promoting business, stimulating job creation, and fostering interaction between business, industry, agriculture, education, and government. With over 900 members, the Chamber is committed to improving the quality of life in the Kearney area.