Hershberger Honored for Life's Work

By WYDaily Staff Wednesday, July 07, 2010

Recently retired vice president of the local chamber of commerce Robert Hershberger picked up a lifetime achievement award from a state association for his work in Williamsburg.

The award was a surprise to Hershberger, who was presented the award by the Virginia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives at their annual meeting June 24 in Warrenton. Hershberger served as the Executive Vice President for the Greater Williamsburg Chamber and Tourism Alliance until June 30 this year. The recognition is given by past presidents of the organization and honors a colleague who has made significant contributions to the advancement of the chamber profession as well as to VACCE.

Nancy Pool, President of the Halifax County Chamber of Commerce and Past President of VACCE, presented Hershberger with the award. “Bob has served as a Chamber leader for many years and has been a friend and mentor to countless chamber professionals,” she said. “He has been a courageous role model, generous in sharing both his time and talents, which in turn has enabled our organization and many of us personally to become more successful.”

“Bob was named Exec of the Year in the early nineties and is one of a handful of execs who have earned the Certified Chamber Executive designation, the profession’s highest personal achievement from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives,” Pool said. “He served as president of VACCE on two occasions and most recently as the immediate past president for the last two years.”

The VACCE, administered by the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, is an alliance of chamber executives representing chambers of commerce from localities throughout the state. VACCE aims to develop the professional skills of chamber executives, staff and volunteer leaders. The Association also provides a forum for integrating the work of the local chambers.

Hershberger's retirement was short-lived; he has taken over as program coordinator of the Leadership Historic Triangle, which trains and supports community leaders.