By: Amy Berry, President & CEO
What a privilege it has been to represent the Anne Arundel Chamber of Commerce this week. Outside of our Chamber-hosted events, I had the opportunity to spend time in the community representing the Chamber at several incredible gatherings that each highlighted a different piece of what makes our region thrive.
It started at the Baltimore Business Journal’s Economic Outlook Breakfast, hosted here in Annapolis at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Regional leaders came together to discuss the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping our local economy. The key takeaway for Maryland: Outward migration continues to rise as Maryland increases regulatory barriers on its businesses. Our friends at the Maryland State Chamber have made this a top priority. Conversations like these are critical as we continue to advocate for policies and initiatives that not only support business growth but keep our businesses in Maryland and in Anne Arundel County. Check out the BBJ’s May issue for their post-event coverage.
I also had the honor of attending AACPS’ Excellence in Education Awards. Celebrating the leaders and educators who are shaping the future workforce was both inspiring and grounding. Congratulations to Principal of the Year, Kim Jakovics of Monarch Academy, Teacher of Year, Joe Bigsby of Magothy River Middle and all of the deserving nominees. I am looking forward to strengthening the connection between AACPS and our business community.
I got to wind down the weekend and connect with so many dynamic women in business at Rage Room MD for Girls Day Out hosted by Katie Guido of Anne Arundel Moms. Nothing will bond a group of women more than throwing glass and axes together. (wink, wink) Events like this highlight the entrepreneurial spirit and support network that continues to grow among women in our community. I’ve already sent out two member referrals and gained 4 new member leads from that gathering!
Monday afternoon included a special visit to Southwest Airlines new maintenance hangar at BWI airport for Southwest Airline’s America 250 Celebration, a meaningful moment recognizing history, partnership, and the continued investment in our region’s economy. Southwest President & CEO, Bob Jordan and U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, announced the partnership with America250 while unveiling “Independence One” as the newest addition to their fleet. Additionally, Southwest announced that they have been named the official airline of America Gives, a nationwide effort to make 2026 the largest year of volunteerism in our country’s history. More info to come on how the Chamber will be utilizing our partnership with Southwest Airlines to ensure that Anne Arundel County does its part in helping achieve this mission! Check out the video of the unveiling below!
At the LAA New Leaders Celebration, I had the chance to engage with other emerging leaders who are already making an impact in Anne Arundel County. We also had the opportunity to do an impromptu ribbon cutting and surprised Jeff Jacobs of Carrol’s Creek Cafe to celebrate their refresh and 43 years of serving our community. Thank you Leadership Anne Arundel for the recognition and for all you do to strengthen our community.
The “supporting women in business” theme carried on through the week, as I attended the PNC Women in Business Week Thread Event watch party featuring keynote speaker, Kendra Scott. Kendra shared her inspiring story of resilience through failure, crediting her passion for giving back to her community as the driving force behind her success.
And to round out the week, I had a little fun stepping into Preakness season with a WMAR interview alongside Maryland Therapeutic Riding in the Homestead Beer Farm to promote our Off to the Races Preakness Party on May 14th. I hope you’ll join us as we it’s the perfect way to celebrate one of Maryland’s most iconic traditions while highlighting the vibrancy of our AACO business community. Learn more about all the AACO Preakness Activities here!
Weeks like this are a powerful reminder that the Chamber’s work doesn’t just happen within our walls—it happens out in the community, alongside our members, partners, and leaders. I’m grateful for every opportunity to connect, listen, and represent the incredible businesses that make Anne Arundel County so special.