December 2023 VOICE Magazine

2023 HONOREES

Roussa Cassel

Owner/Architect at Artisans Group Architecture & Planning (pictured)

Katie McMurray Founder and CEO of Sensory Tool House

Erik Johnson

CEO of Olympia Computer

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December 2023 THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER VOICE MAGAZINE Visit ThurstonChamber.com and click on the Events Calendar for the latest information regarding Chamber events.

Join our host, Olympia Federal Savings at 421 Capitol Way S, Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, December 7 at 5:30 p.m. for Thurston Young Professionals Monthly Networking Event. Enjoy bites and beverages as you expand your network! All are welcome – feel free to invite other 20 to 30-year-olds so they can expand their networks! Thurston Young Professionals is sponsored by KGY Media Group.

honors

After Hours After Hours

Join us for December Forum on Wednesday, December 13 at 11:30 a.m. at the Norman Worthington Center at Saint Martin's University, at 4830 Pacific Ave SE Lacey, WA 98503.

The Chamber is pleased to announce the winners of the annual "Boss of the Year" Recognition and Celebration. In partnership with Express Employment Professionals and Saint Martin's University, this award recognizes outstanding individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership in the workplace through innovation, communication, vision, and performance. Forum is sponsored by Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, truit, Three Girls Media and Saint Martin's University.

Join our Business After Hours host The Olympia Furniture and Sleep Co. at 2302 Harrison Ave NW #101, Olympia, WA 98502 on Thursday, December 21 at 5:30 p.m., for mingling and networking with other business professionals, a door prize business card drawing, beverages and appetizers.

Business After Hours is a great opportunity to expand your network, and it is proudly sponsored by ROXY 94.5 and PacificSource Health Plans.

Thank You Sponsors!

In This Issue...

Boss of the Year Honorees, In Their Own Words p. 7 Congratulations, Boss of the Year Finalists and Honorees: We unveil visionary leaders celebrated for excellence, innovation, and the infusion of fresh perspectives.

Chamber Celebrates 150 Years in 2024 p. 19 Mark your calendars for a celebration as the Thurston Chamber gears up to commemorate an extraordinary milestone.

Welcome Schelli Slaughter as Foundation Director p. 21 The Thurston Chamber Foundation embraces a new era of community growth as Schelli Slaughter takes the helm as Director.

Caught in the Lens p. 22 Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see the great smiles that make up our membership!

The VOICE prints on FSC® Certified paper.

The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC), is a non-profit organization that sets certain high standards to make sure that forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible and socially beneficial manner.

thurstonchamber.com

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magazine PUBLISHER Thurston County Chamber of Commerce EDITORIAL David Schaffert 360-357-3362 dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com CONTRIBUTORS David Schaffert ADVERTISING Sales & Marketing: Krystal Barkus Elizabeth Bretschneider Ashley Chandler Marianne Judd SUBSCRIPTIONS 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com DESIGN Ben Hawkes Mosaic Marketing Studio COVER Roussa Cassel, Owner/Architect at Artisans Group Architecture and Planning, and one of three 2023 Boss of the Year Honorees. Photo

by Shanna Paxton Photography.

PRINTING Print NW CONTACT THE CHAMBER 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com thurstonchamber.com

Exciting Times Ahead: Celebrating Achievement, Advocacy and 150 Years of the Thurston County Chamber

by David Schaffert, President/CEO, Thurston County Chamber

As we approach the end of the year, the December issue of VOICE Magazine is brimming with excitement and noteworthy announcements.

Shared Legislative Agenda Update: Fostering Collaboration for a Safer Tomorrow We bring you a vital public policy update on our commitment to community welfare. Gain insight into how the Shared Legislative Agenda Boss of the Year Honors: A partners convened to propose a Showcase of Leadership Excellence Regional Law Enforcement Academy.

In this issue's spotlight, we shine a As we collectively navigate the well-deserved light on the Boss of challenges of the upcoming legislative the Year honorees. These remarkable session, the Chamber remains individuals and our finalists have steadfast in its dedication to initiatives undergone a thorough interview that enhance public safety and process led by the talented students strengthen the fabric of our region. of Saint Martin's University's business school. The culmination of this effort An Incredible Milestone: Thurston will be celebrated at the Chamber's County Chamber Turns 150!

Forum in December. We extend Hold onto your hats—2024 marks a our heartfelt congratulations to the monumental year for the Thurston honorees, express gratitude to the County Chamber as we celebrate our dedicated students, and commend 150th birthday! We're gearing up for a the esteemed faculty at Saint year-long celebration, with highlights Martin's for facilitating this enriching including our annual meeting in May experience. Join us in applauding and a community-wide celebration in these exemplary leaders who inspire July. We're planning celebrations you and elevate our community. won't want to miss.

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER BUILDING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY SINCE 1874 COPYRIGHT All material appearing in the VOICE Magazine is copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material. The VOICE Magazine takes all care to ensure information is correct at time of printing, but the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy of any information contained in the text or advertisements. ©2022 VOICE Magazine, Thurston County Chamber.

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Katie McMurray, Erik Johnson and Roussa Cassel. Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography.

Unveiling the Trailblazers: Meet the 2023 Boss of the Year Honorees!

In a salute to visionary leadership, the Thurston Chamber is thrilled to announce the distinguished honorees for the 2023 Boss of the Year awards.

This annual celebration, co-presented by Express Employment Professionals, spotlights leaders who embody excellence in guiding their teams toward innovation, open communication, and exceptional performance.

What sets this year apart is the infusion of fresh perspectives. A group of 25 students from Saint Martin's University delved into the workplaces of the finalists, contributing valuable insights that have played a pivotal role in shaping the selection process. "It's not just an award; it's a thorough analysis of leadership excellence," emphasizes Reid Bates, Owner at Express Employment Professionals.

Let's give a resounding round of applause to our Boss of the Year Honorable Mentions: Buffy Howard – Clarus Eye Centre Michael Cade – Thurston EDC Drew Phillips – FORMA Construction honors

And now, a standing ovation for the 2023 Boss of the Year Honorees: Katie McMurray, Founder/CEO of Sensory Tool House Erik Johnson, CEO of Olympia Computer Roussa Cassel, Owner/Architect at Artisans Group Architecture & Planning

Mark your calendars! The highly anticipated recognition and awards ceremony will unfold at the Thurston Chamber's Forum on December 13, housed in the Norman Worthington Center at Saint Martin's University. The festivities commence with a delectable lunch at 11:30 a.m., followed by the program kicking off at 12 p.m. Secure your spot now at www.thurstonchamber.com. A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors – Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, Saint Martin's University, truit and Three Girls Media – for their unwavering support in honoring outstanding leadership. thurstonchamber.com

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Q1: What's the most unexpected lesson you've learned in your journey as a leader?

There are so many lessons, but I think the most unexpected is how much you get to learn from your team. They teach me every day. Taking the time to listen and actively hearing what the team has to contribute makes a difference in company culture and growth. As leaders, we can’t think of everything, and we make mistakes. Being open to continued learning and growth from our team is hard and humbling, but worth every moment.

GET TO KNOW

Katie McMurray M.Ed., CDMS, PGAP Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Sensory Tool House 8 I

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Q2: Can you share a memorable moment where your team's creativity surprised you?

The vision of Sensory Tool House from day one to where it is today is because of my team’s creativity and innovation. They consistently surprise me with how they support each other and the community. Recently, we were hired to support a research division of a large university at a national conference. The team created an individualized approach to accommodating over 400 people with disabilities that had never been executed before. Watching them design this with intention, respect for differences, and creativity was inspiring and exciting. The best part was the response they received leading to future projects and more communities being supported.

Q3: In the fast-paced world of business, how do you prioritize work-life balance for yourself and your team?

This is always the biggest challenge. Honestly, I am not the best at this, and I am called out by my team. We have built a culture of family and health (physical and mental) first.

We intentionally are closed on Sundays and Mondays so our team can have rest, though some of our administrative and leadership team works on Mondays. We are retail, but we close our doors on Black Friday to allow our team to spend more time in life, away from the pressure of work. Our staff is encouraged to take their vacation time and PTO time. We often adjust thurstonchamber.com

schedules when “life-happens” if it’s communicated to supervisors. It’s not perfect, but we do our best to support each other.

• • •

As for me, I am working on it. My team encouraged me to get an assistant, which I did (she is amazing).

Over the summer I celebrated my 20-year anniversary and team members told my husband to lock my phone and computer in the hotel safe for a day or two, to help me step away. Knowing that it is not just me supporting them, but us all supporting each other means so much.

• •

Were processes communicated clearly?

Was communication in the form that the employee uses best?

Did we provide visual processes along with written and verbal?

Were the expectations clear and easy to access for understanding?

Is the workspace challenging for concentration and productivity?

As leaders, we assume we have given our employees everything they need to perform their job, but often, something is missing. When that happens, we look Q4: How has your leadership style contributed to to see where we can provide further support. Once the overall success and growth of your organization? we do that, it is always provided for that position This question takes a lot of self-reflection. My regardless of the employee and we may also do the leadership style is one that believes everyone has a same for other positions. skill to contribute. Sometimes we hire and it’s not the right fit. Culturally companies will often let that person If we find that the position still is not a right fit, we go. We try not to do that. Turnover is expensive and try to find a position that highlights the skills for that typically their underperformance was not for lack of employee. They are now cross-trained and can help trying. So many other factors contribute: should we need it, that is a benefit. thurstonchamber.com

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As a leader I am flawed and don’t hide that. We have open communication. I want to hear ideas and their contributions. I want to know what I can do better. This takes practice and it is often hard, but it has helped us. I have high expectations for all of us and we meet regularly to ensure that everyone is communicating so we can problem solve, plan, and celebrate.

Q6: If your leadership style had a theme song or was a book title, what would it be and why?

Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally by Emily Ladau

I knew there were barriers in employment for those who are neurodivergent. I also knew there were barriers in access to goods and services for those Most of all, I like to have fun and we laugh a lot. It who are neurodivergent. That is why Sensory Tool helps to have a place where we can swing or hide under a weighted blanket when we are overwhelmed. House started. But I was naïve. I did not know the depth of those barriers, even as a Certified Disability I get silly and like to play. There are moments, many Management Specialist. Even as a former educator. captured on video, of the team testing out a new product laughing and having fun, or me falling (always Even as a mom to neurodivergent and disabled kids.

Even as a neurodivergent person myself. I was naïve to gracefully) because I get so excited that my sensory how many did not have access to employment and the system throws my balance off. support that they need in education and community.

Q5: In what ways do you foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within your organization, and how As a leader, I became an advocate and ally to has this contributed to its excellence? demystifying disability in employment, education, Our entire team meets once a month. We also do and community. Educators often are not taught how quarterly retreats to collaborate. The team is always to support neurodivergent learners and communities encouraged to bring ideas to leadership, and we often rarely include neurodivergent persons in their execute them or table them for future. Once a week our DEI efforts. My team is proof that the biases and Leadership Team, Sensory Design Team, and Community employment practices in our culture have limited the Engagement Team meet to collaborate on projects and discuss current and future planning. Our Purchasing and access to gainful employment for so many. Harvard Inventory Team meets twice a month to collaborate and Business Review reports teams that incorporate neurodivergent employees are 30% more productive streamline as well. Since we started meeting, we have and there are so many other benefits. My leadership seen further improvements in our processes along with style is about Demystifying Disability. amazing collaboration and teamwork. thurstonchamber.com

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GET TO KNOW

Erik Johnson CEO, Olympia Computer

Q1: What's the most unexpected lesson you've learned in your journey as a leader?

I've learned to hire individuals who outshine me in intelligence or possess skills I lack. It's not just about filling gaps; it's about creating a powerhouse of diverse talents that propels us to new heights. Elevate your leadership by embracing the brilliance of others!

Q2: Can you share a memorable moment where your team's creativity surprised you?

My team surprises me constantly, whether it is creating tools that are better than what we can purchase or emergency MacGyvering systems together at 11pm on a Saturday when a network explodes.

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The Olympia Computer team. From left to right: Julie Shipe, Erik Johnson, Riley Moody, TJ Rubatino, Oly Girl (dog) and Gabriel Marbourg. Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography.

Q3: In the fast-paced world of business, how do you prioritize work-life balance for yourself and your team?

Ours is a 24/7 business, so I must expect staff to be ready to work evenings and weekends - but I try hard to offer them a lot of control over their schedules - the option to work from home, lots of freedom to decide what they do when at work. We build in time to laugh together - and our dogs are a part of our work life. If we feel we have control over our lives and enjoy what we do, we can accomplish much more than when we are just working "for the man." thurstonchamber.com

Q4: How has your leadership style contributed to the overall success and growth of your organization?

The tech business demands innovation - no two businesses need exactly the same IT setup or have the same computer problems. Hiring people who want to grow and walking with them as they try new paths moves us forward.

Q5: In what ways do you foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within your organization, and how has this contributed to its excellence?

Empower employees to work mostly autonomously but be available to them as needed. Allow employees to be part of the decision-making in almost all aspects of the business. Our collective brain power is significantly more than mine alone! I want to add that we volunteer together at Lakefair, flipping burgers and, for LoveOly, picking up trash and pulling weeds on Saturday. We sell apples for Olympia Host Lions. We have fun doing good things for the community, which makes us a great team!

If you stop by Olympia Computers you'll get to meet Oly Girl!

Q6: If your leadership style had a theme song or was a book title, what would it be and why?

A Tale of Two Cities - just because running companies in Arizona and Washington means my leadership style has to be hands-off - no way around it. Empower my employees and trust in their decisions. thurstonchamber.com

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Q1: What's the most unexpected lesson you've learned in your journey as a leader?

That I'm actually pretty good at it! I never aspired to be a leader because I am not super assertive naturally and I like to do things my own way. But I really care about people and the work we do, so over time I've developed the patience and skills to lead and I've been surprised how well people respond to the approach and perspective I bring to the work.

GET TO KNOW

Roussa Cassel

Principal, AIA NCARB, PHIUS Certified Builder, Owner/Architect at Artisans Group Architecture and Planning, PS 14 I

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Q2: Can you share a memorable moment where your team's creativity surprised you?

We recently donated time to help an amazing non profit called Community Youth Services. Our staff took the request for a creative new color scheme proposal on their large outdated commercial building very seriously. They applied a ton of creative energy to proposing a very innovative, geometric, mural style exterior. The bold color scheme has enlivened people's interest in Community Youth Services and added to the rich urban texture in downtown Olympia.

Q3: In the fast-paced world of business, how do you prioritize work-life balance for yourself and your team?

I have to, I’m a single mom and have an 11-year-old daughter who is my whole world. I work really hard, and try to be a good example to her. You can be a great mom, and run a business while contributing something to your community! thurstonchamber.com

Q4: How has your leadership style contributed to the overall success and growth of your organization?

I offer a steadfast, measured approach to problem-solving. I’m good at taking calculated risks.

I’m great at applying value to the projects I enjoy, so I naturally attract and generate interesting work that our whole team can get excited about.

Q5: In what ways do you foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within your organization, and how has this contributed to its excellence?

I appreciate and study different personality types. My business partner Tessa and I are very different but balance one another in remarkable ways that has led to unexpected levels of success.

We try to foster a work culture that is flexible and open, so each employee can bring their strengths, express their ideas and feel valued for their contributions.

In a creative industry, this is especially important because you never know where great ideas will come from.

Q6: If your leadership style had a theme song or was a book title, what would it be and why?

Run the World (Girls) by Beyoncé.

It's more like an anthem! We face so many challenges in our profession that I look to inspiring and outspoken female leaders across industries for support and encouragement. thurstonchamber.com

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ADVOCACY

Are Regional Law Enforcement Academies in our Future?

Every year, the Thurston Chamber’s Public Policy Division convenes the Thurston Region Shared Legislative Partners to identify community needs and regional solutions to advance during the upcoming State Legislative session. This year calls for creating a South Sound regional Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) rose quickly to the top of our shared agenda.

All local police and sheriff’s departments depend on the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission to provide basic law enforcement training and must send all new officers to the “Academy”. As departments across the State work to fill vacant officer positions, a backlog of recruits are waiting to go to the academy. This backlog creates delays of up to 18 months to get a new law enforcement officer on the street. An 18-month delay between hiring and deploying a new police officer increases public safety risks and is not a sustainable approach to recruiting and retaining top talent.

One viable solution to this problem is the creation of a Regional Academy. The Training Commission successfully launched a regional BLEA in the Southeast part of the State. Early concepts in the South Sound envision a basic law enforcement academy that adds capacity to the Training Commission to better meet the training needs of a rapidly growing region struggling to fill vacant officer positions. “We continue to recruit and hire new officers and a regional academy will help address the academy waiting list,” said Jay Burney, City Manager with the City of Olympia, “Not only in our region, but across the state.”

Look for the Thurston Chamber and the Thurston Shared Legislative Partners to work during the upcoming legislative session to support efforts that create more regional academies and secure resources to provide two Basic Law Enforcement Academy classes in Thurston County agencies. Doing this will expedite officers' training once hired and help ensure communities have the police officers they need and expect on the street. thurstonchamber.com

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Get ready to celebrate because the Thurston Chamber is on the brink of an incredible milestone in 2024–150 years of transforming our community into an extraordinary place to live, work, and play! Back in 1874, a group of forward-thinkers came together with a mission: turn our county into a powerhouse of business prosperity.

Enter the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce–the brainchild of these visionaries, descended from the 1874 founding members of the Board of Trade. Like the founders in 1874, the Thurston Chamber has been a trailblazer, shaping the past and leading the way for the present. At 150 years old, it stands strong, a testament to its commitment to upholding the objectives set forth in its first articles of incorporation. These objectives? To foster, protect, and encourage commercial, mercantile, and other public interests; to procure, preserve, and disseminate valuable statistics and information for the greater good of our community. The Thurston Chamber's role in regional history is nothing short of legendary. Its leadership is woven into the very fabric of our communities, and its commitment to innovation is essential to the future we're all excited about.

Join Us in Making History

Throughout 2024, the Chamber will celebrate its history by paying tribute to the leaders, businesses, organizations, and communities whose support and partnerships have been vital to the Chamber’s success and vision of building prosperity.

Become a Prosperity Partner

Support the Chamber’s mission and take advantage of comprehensive, multi-month, sponsorship packages that reflect your company’s role in creating a vibrant community.

Contact Krystal Barkus at events@thurstonchamber.com

Share Your Memories

Help us compile the history of the Chamber by sharing your memories and photos. Materials may be used to support historical timeline, marketing collateral or events during 2024.

Contact Jessica Houchin at JHouchin@thurstonchamber.com thurstonchamber.com

Save the Date 150th Anniversary Events May 8, 2024–Annual Meeting July 11, 2024–150th Anniversary Celebration

Chamber Time Capsule

Get ready for a journey through time as we unveil fascinating historical tidbits and insider information about the Chamber's rich legacy throughout the year. Join us as we delve deeper into the past and explore the roots of our organization!

So, here's to 150 years of making history and paving the way for an even brighter future!

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 Register Today Time is running out!

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Thurston Chamber Foundation Welcomes Schelli Slaughter as Director, Focusing on Community Expansion and Impact The Thurston Chamber Foundation is thrilled to announce the appointment of Schelli Slaughter as its new Director.

With a wealth of experience at both non-profit and for-profit levels, Schelli is poised to lead the Foundation into a new era of community engagement and growth.

A Distinguished Career in Service and Leadership Schelli brings an impressive background in service and leadership to her role at the Thurston Chamber Foundation.

With a remarkable 13-year tenure as the Director of the Family Support Center of South Sound, followed by five years as the Thurston County Public Health Director, Schelli has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community. Over the last two years, Schelli has contributed to population health initiatives at Providence-Swedish and at Choice Regional Health Network. Most recently, Schelli launched S360 Consulting, LLC offering her executive leadership and consulting services to organizations including the Thurston Chamber Foundation.

Her diverse experience provides her with a unique perspective on community needs and innovative solutions.

Proven Leadership and Academic Excellence Schelli's leadership acumen is underscored by her educational achievements. Holding a Masters in Health Administration from the University of Washington, she has combined academic prowess with practical experience to drive positive change. Schelli is an alumna of Evergreen State College, where she earned her B.A. Born and raised in Thurston County, Schelli's deep roots in the community reflect her commitment to its well-being. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is an avid runner and recently completed the New York Marathon, running for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, an illustration of her dedication to both personal and community well-being.

Charting a Course for Community Impact As Director of the Thurston Chamber Foundation, Schelli Slaughter will play a pivotal role in expanding the Foundation's footprint within the community. Her strategic vision and passion for community service position her as an ideal leader to guide the Foundation's initiatives into a new phase of impact. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Schelli Slaughter as she embarks on this exciting journey with the Thurston Chamber Foundation.

"We are delighted to welcome Schelli to the Thurston Chamber Foundation team.

Her extensive leadership experience and commitment to community well-being align seamlessly with our mission. With Schelli at the helm, we look forward to furthering the Foundation's role as a catalyst for positive change in Thurston County."

–David Schaffert, Thurston Chamber President/CEO thurstonchamber.com

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Caught in the Lens

Keep up with the Thurston Chamber happenings – ribbon cuttings and the networking events. Find more at the Chamber's Facebook page – fb.com/thurstoncountychamber.

Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, PLLC Fieldstone Communities Little Creek Casino & Resort Morningside MultiCare Capital Medical Center Olympia Federal Savings Olympic Rental & Landlord Services SCJ Alliance South Puget Sound Community College The Rants Group truit Veteran Security Operations

FORMA Construction Company

Wells Fargo Community Bank

Washington Business Bank

TwinStar Credit Union

South Sound Behavioral Hospital

Saint Martin's University

Puget Sound Energy

Providence Swedish

Port of Olympia

PacificSource Health Plans

Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel

PLATINUM

DIAMOND

The Thurston County Chamber sends a BIG "Thank You" to ALL of our investors. With members like you, we are able to provide a sustainable business community in Thurston County as well as foster growth and positive change. Only through your support can we continue to fund important community initiatives and lead the way for business.

Thank You Community Investors

Edward Jones – Dirk Farrar, Financial Advisor

The Creative Office

Window Genie

Venables Pest Management

Timberland Bank

ULINE Shipping Supply Specialists

T-Mobile

TAGS Awards & Specialties

Nicholson & Associates Insurance

The Olympia Furniture & Sleep Company Olympia Orthopaedic Associates

Michael White Agency – Farmers Insurance

Olympic Sotheby's International Realty Hometown Property Management, Inc.

Great Wolf Lodge

GHB Insurance, Inc.

Express Employment Professionals

Cap City Law, PS

Umpqua Bank The Evergreen State College

AAA Washington

SILVER

Chicago Title

GOLD

PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427