Posted, June 2007

Chattanooga, Tennessee -- The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce has received accreditation with a four-star distinction from the U. S. Chamber of Commerce for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures and positive impact on the community.

"This prestigious honor puts us among the top 10 percent of chambers nationwide," said Chamber President and CEO Tom Edd Wilson. "While a total of seven chambers were awarded some level of accreditation, we were among only five receiving this distinguished 4-star rating."

Statewide, the Chattanooga Area Chamber joins the ranks of only seven chambers with a four- or five-star rating.

"Accreditation recognizes chambers for their high standards of practice, full accountability to members and steadfast commitment to community," said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber. "This distinction honors your dedication to advancing the principles of free enterprise -- the bedrock of this prestigious award."

Noting that this is the first time in over 20 years that the Chamber has been accredited by the U.S. Chamber, Wilson praised the efforts of Cheryl Millsaps, Chamber vice president for finance and administration and the coordinator of the arduous accreditation application process conducted over a six-month period.

"Cheryl -- and other members of the staff -- devoted countless hours to the massive documentation of Chamber competency in nine core areas, ranging from finance to facilities," Wilson said. "The result of our hard work is evidenced by this impressive rating."

The Chamber achieved a perfect score in governance, human resources and facilities and received special recognition for using three different web sites to expand its communication options and reach different audiences with more targeted information.

The only national program recognizing chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement, accreditation allows chambers to renew, improve and promote sound business practices, policies and procedures, according to Donahue.

"It also helps chambers measure achievement while recognizing and encouraging chamber members and staff who meet high standards of operation and who contribute effectively to the good of their chambers and communities," he said.

The Chattanooga Area Chamber's application was reviewed by U.S. Chamber staff, an independent accrediting consultant and the National Accrediting Board.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.