Aaron Weatherford has joined the staff of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce as membership director. He replaces Gina Akins, who recently accepted a position with Blood Assurance.

Weatherford, who moved to Cleveland 17 years ago, is a graduate of Lee University with a bachelor’s degree in communications and a focus on public relations. He most recently served as host at Bald Headed Bistro, event coordinator/marketer for Tennessee Crush Football and member of the Lee University Advancement Force. These positions required that he seek out prospective sponsorship donors and fans, interact with college students and families interested in the community, and network with many people in the community.

“I enjoy meeting new people and love to talk and interact with them as well,” Weatherford said. “I am proud of the developments and progress Cleveland has attained over the years and would like to be a part of its future growth. This position will give me that opportunity.”

Weatherford has additional work experience at both Big City University and Camelot Care Centers in creating therapeutic relationships, mentoring at-risk youth and developing individual life skills training plans.

While a student at Lee, the new membership director was a member of the Public Relations Student Society of America, held several leadership positions for Upsilon Xi, served on the Student Leadership Council, was a member of Campus Choir, and was vice president of the Beta Club. He was also named to Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities in 2004.

Weatherford was also an active volunteer in a variety of organizations.

“We are looking forward to having Aaron begin his duties as a member of the Chamber staff,” Bernadette Douglas, senior vice president, said. “His experiences in the community and his energy and enthusiasm will be an asset for the Chamber.”

Weatherford’s responsibilities will include membership retention programs; membership sales; advertising sales in The Resource, 225 Keith and The Guide; overseeing the Chamber Ambassadors; and coordination of the many benefit programs offered by the Chamber.

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