Binger, Stocker receive Emerging Women Leaders honors

HUNTLEY — Two Huntley officials, Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Nancy Binger and Village of Huntley Economic Development, Marketing and Recruitment Specialist Melissa Stocker were honored as Emerging Women Leaders recognition event at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield. The two women were nominated by Illinois State Rep. Joe Sosnowski (Dist. 69).

Binger said the honor represents the work of many through the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce and the village.

“The honor is not just an individual achievement but a recognition of the collective efforts of our community,” Binger said. “It serves as a reminder that we are all capable of making a positive impact, and that together, we can inspire and empower future generations of women leaders. It was truly inspiring to hear from notable women leaders who serve in Illinois government. Their courage, determination and unwavering commitment to public service serve as an example for all of us. It was a powerful reminder of the impact that women can have when they are given a seat at the table and empowered to make a difference.”

The April 18 event included a keynote address by Illinois Supreme Court Justice Lisa Holder White, who is the first black woman to serve on the state’s high court. Justice Holder White discussed the obstacles women face working to achieve positions of leadership, according to a press release.

“It was great to have Binger and Stocker be a part of our Emerging Women Leaders program,” Sosnowski said in a press release. “They are truly leaders in their respective roles at the Chamber and Village of Huntley and the community is blessed to have them make Huntley a great place to live and work.”

Stocker, who is also a member of the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, summed up her experience at the event.

“It was an honor to be included in the recent Emerging Women Leaders Brunch & Day at the Capitol,” she said.  “The day granted us the opportunity to meet inspiring leaders in our State Supreme Court, Justice Holder-White, House Republican Leader Tony McCombie and Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. It is exciting to have been nominated as an emerging leader by Rep. Sosnowski. Sharing the experience with the other nominees as well as Binger was wonderful.”

Stocker said she has enjoyed being involved in the local community for many years.

“My role as the Marketing & Recruitment Specialist for the Village of Huntley allows me to promote the village, recruit new businesses and enhance the experience for existing businesses and residents,” Stocker said. “I collaborate with leaders every day and find such value in learning from those around me. This event is an experience I will forever remember.”

Binger, of Union, and her husband Chad have three children who attend Huntley Community District 158. Chad Binger owns Binger Chiropractic in Huntley for 22 years and has been a member of the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Chamber’s recent successes

Binger explained the recent success of the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce. She began as its executive director in January, 2022.

“Upon my arrival, the Chamber has 265 members,” Binger said. “Within the last 16 months, the Chamber has grown to 313 members, including 82 new members. This increase can be attributed to the success of two big initiatives: elevating our brand through social media and community exposure. Over this period, our Facebook reach has skyrocketed 600 percent and we have gained 1,125 new followers.”

She added, “to further connect the Chamber’s members with the community, we have organized various events to showcase local businesses, such as the Ice Sculpture Cocoa Crawl, Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt; Puzzles, Pizza and Pitchers; in addition to our established Bags Tournament and Home, Business and Wellness Expo. Consistency and communication have also been key to our growth, with regular monthly and quarterly events scheduled at various times of the day to ensure options for everyone. Daily email updates and a monthly newsletter, along with social media marketing, have also helped us to keep members informed. Our approach is to provide creative and unique offerings, whether it is through signature events, educational opportunities or showcasing our members. It is important that our members feel the value of their membership in the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce.”

Binger praised the cooperation shown by local entities.

“The progress of the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce has also been attributed to the encouragement and backing of the Chamber’s Board of Directors and the  Village of Huntley,” she said. “The Chamber board is comprised of dedicated local leaders who genuinely care about advancing the business environment in Huntley. Through their unwavering commitment and in tandem with the Village of Huntley’s drive for growth and excellence, their collective efforts have fostered a dynamic collaboration that has propelled Huntley toward a future of innovative progress and achievement.”

Binger earned a Bachelors Degree in Marketing from Judson University and a Masters Degree in Business Management from Northern Illinois University.