At our final Chamber Buzz of 2026, Victoria will introduce SMRC’s Leadership Academy and what’s ahead for 2027, including the launch of the new Civic Accelerator. She’ll share how the Leadership, Management, and Civic Accelerator programs help leaders at every stage grow their impact and strengthen communities across Southwest Michigan.
Victoria is the Program Manager at the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber (SMRC), where she works to develop leaders and strengthen communities across the region. A recent graduate of the University of Missouri, she studied political science and public administration and policy, and she is currently pursuing her Master of Public Affairs. After spending many summers enjoying everything Southwest Michigan has to offer, Victoria made the move permanent following graduation.
At SMRC, Victoria oversees Leadership Academy, a suite of professional development programs that includes Leadership Accelerator, Management Accelerator, and Civic Accelerator. Each program is designed to meet leaders where they are, from those growing into management roles to senior nonprofit and public-sector leaders shaping the future of their communities. Victoria has played a key role in building Civic Accelerator, the newest addition to the Leadership Academy, which launches in 2027.
Beyond Leadership Academy, Victoria leads SMRC’s childcare work as coalition lead for a three-county childcare coalition spanning Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. She partners with employers, providers, and community organizations to expand access to quality, affordable childcare, an issue central to the region’s workforce and economic vitality. She also supports the Chamber’s broader advocacy efforts, engaging with elected officials, tracking policy, and helping coordinate advocacy events. In addition, she leads the NextGen Young Professionals Program, connecting and engaging the next generation of leaders in Southwest Michigan.
Across all of her work, Victoria is driven by a simple belief: stronger leaders build stronger communities.
