Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce Director Honored For Decade of Service

Executive Director Ronee Nassi was recently recognized for her 10 years of service to the organization that helps local businesses network, gain visibility and bring visitors to town.

Nassi was one of three local leaders honored during the organization's awards dinner at La Rinconada Country Club the evening of July 19.

"It was a wonderful event and I was so honored to be recognized for being able to do something that I’ve really loved for the last 10 years," Nassi said about the acknowledgement. "Honestly, I’d much rather be in the background and let the spotlight shine on the members and volunteers who are committed to the chamber."

The chamber, located at 10 Station Way, also presented awards to community leader Michael Kane as 2012 Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year, and as Business of the Year.

Nassi said she was was totally surprised by what was done in her honor at the dinner and was thrilled that her family was there to share the evening with her.

"It is always gratifying to be recognized for what you do and this was no exception. I care deeply about the organization and the town. I not only work here, but I live here as well so what I do is even more important to me," she said.

Nassi said she's been fortunate to work with wonderful, committed volunteers, like those who serve on the organization's board of directors, ambassadors and the Visitors Bureau.

She praised her office staff, Rei Yamakawa and Marie Tallman, for "making me look good with all that they do to support the efforts of the chamber."

Nassi was hired by the chamber in May of 2002. She was brought on as temporary help when the chamber was looking for a new executive director, she said.

Los Gatos Councilwoman Diane McNutt interviewed and hired her, adding that the job was supposed to only last two months. "Who knew it would become a 10-year adventure?" Nassi said.

Her responsibilities include being a link between the chamber's approximate 400 members, the agency's officials, residents and visitors. "To many, we are the face of the Chamber of Commerce and we take that responsibility seriously, but we do have fun doing what we do," she said.

The most challenging part about serving as the chamber's executive director is that "sometimes there just aren’t enough hours in the day," she said.

Gina Adams, a member of the organization's board of directors, said she was impressed with Nassi's work ethic and her personable and fun sense of humor.

"She juggles so many things. She's always willing to do whatever it takes, from dealing with last-minute things to coming up with high-level strategies for the chamber," Adams said.