Knox County Chamber celebrates new downtown office with ribbon cutting

The Knox County Chamber of Commerce officially celebrated its new home Oct. 21 with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11 S. Mulberry Street in downtown Mount Vernon. The event marked a major milestone for the organization, which recently relocated from the historic CA&C Railroad Depot on Columbus Road after years of operating out of the former train station.

Interim Executive Director Debbie Ruggles welcomed community members, business leaders, and local officials to the ceremony. “Today’s ribbon cutting marks an exciting step forward for the Chamber of Commerce,” she said. “This moment reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses, strengthening community partnerships, and fostering growth throughout Knox County. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and look forward to continuing to serve our members and community.”

Ruggles explained that the decision to purchase the Mulberry Street building came after the chamber faced space limitations at its previous location. “We wanted our own space, and we wanted to be downtown,” she said. “This new location puts us right where the community gathers and allows us to grow with our members.”

Several dignitaries and community leaders spoke during the ceremony. Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr praised the chamber’s longevity and impact. “The chamber has served as a cornerstone in our community,” Starr said. “It is time to celebrate a new chapter.”

Knox County Commissioner Bill Pursel also shared remarks, congratulating the chamber on the move and reaffirming its importance in driving economic vitality.

Executive board member and chair Steve Oster thanked those in attendance and acknowledged the Chamber Ambassadors for their dedication. Ambassadors serve as the extended arm of the chamber, volunteering at events, highlighting services and benefits, and building connections between the chamber and local businesses. Laurie Gallwitz of Park National Bank currently serves as the Ambassador Chair.

A representative from the Ohio Secretary of State’s office presented a certificate of recognition to Ruggles, honoring the chamber’s long history and ongoing service to the business community. Following the remarks, Ruggles and Stephanie Blanchard, the chamber’s programs and social media coordinator, had the honor of cutting the ribbon together, officially opening the new office to the public.

Founded in February 1916, the Knox County Chamber of Commerce has served the community for more than a century. Its mission is to empower and support the success of businesses, their leadership, and the community. The chamber’s vision is to inspire a thriving business community by connecting leaders with premier programming and resources. Its core values — collaboration, diversity, excellence, innovation, and member-focus — guide every initiative and define how the chamber supports its members.

The ribbon cutting at the Mulberry Street location represented far more than a change of address. It highlighted the chamber’s vision for the future — to expand its reach, foster collaboration, and continue serving as a central resource for businesses of all sizes across Knox County. The move downtown positions the chamber in the heart of the community it serves, offering greater accessibility for members and increased visibility to the public. By securing a permanent home, the chamber has created space to grow, develop new initiatives, and strengthen the connections that fuel economic vitality in the region.

Chamber membership offers a wide range of benefits, including networking opportunities, professional development programs, advocacy on business issues, marketing support, and increased visibility through chamber-sponsored events.

As the chamber enters this new chapter, its dedication remains steadfast. With more than a century of history behind it, the organization’s continued growth reflects its commitment to building a thriving future for Knox County. For more information on membership, programs, or upcoming events, visit www.knoxchamber.com or contact the chamber at chamber@knoxchamber.com.