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December 1, 2025

Hello Everyone!

I’m excited to introduce myself as the Executive Director of the Harrison County Chamber of Commerce. My name is Janelle Thomas (formerly Janelle Amy), and it’s an honor to serve a community that has shaped me for so many years.

My journey in local development actually began when I was just 16 years old, during an internship with Main Street Corydon. That early experience introduced me to the world of downtown development, small business support, and community collaboration—and it sparked a passion that has guided my career ever since.

After earning my degree in Marketing & Sales with a minor in Public Relations from Indiana University Southeast, I returned to Main Street Corydon as Executive Director. For three years, I had the privilege of coordinating festivals, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs, and helping preserve the historic identity of our town—all while learning from countless community leaders along the way.

Stepping into this new role at the Chamber feels like a natural next chapter. I’m excited to bring the lessons learned over the past decade into a broader countywide effort to support business growth, strengthen partnerships, and create meaningful opportunities for our members.

We have many exciting things planned for the coming year—new programs, fresh events, expanded marketing tools, and more ways for businesses to connect and thrive. I can’t wait to work alongside each of you as we continue building a strong and vibrant Harrison County.

Thank you for the warm welcome. I look forward to meeting you!

Janelle Amy Thomas
Janelle Thomas
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 30, 2025

Harrison County Chamber of Commerce and YMCA Announce Leadership Transition and Shared Commitment to Community Growth

Corydon, IN - The Chamber of Commerce of Harrison County and the YMCA of Harrison County are pleased to announce an exciting leadership transition that reinforces their shared commitment to strengthening and growing the Harrison County community.

Effective November 10, 2025, Janelle Thomas will assume the role of Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce of Harrison County, following the transition of Lisa Long into her new position as Executive Director of the River Hills Economic Development District and Regional Planning Commission.

A lifelong Harrison County resident, Thomas brings deep local roots and a demonstrated passion for community and economic development. She most recently served as Mission Advancement and Development Director at the YMCA of Harrison County, where she expanded fundraising efforts, cultivated community connections, and advanced the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Prior to that, she served as Executive Director of Main Street Corydon, leading initiatives that revitalized downtown, supported small businesses, and encouraged civic engagement.

Thomas’s transition to the Chamber represents a natural continuation of her dedication to building a stronger, more connected Harrison County. In her new role, she will focus on supporting local businesses, encouraging workforce growth, and fostering initiatives that enhance economic vitality and quality of life for residents.

The Chamber and YMCA share a strong alignment in their community-focused work — both dedicated to service, engagement, and collaboration for the benefit of all who call Harrison County home.

The organizations also extend their appreciation to Lisa Long for her leadership and vision. Her transition to River Hills will continue to benefit Harrison County through regional collaboration and economic development efforts that strengthen Southern Indiana as a whole.

About the Chamber of Commerce of Harrison County

The Chamber of Commerce of Harrison County promotes economic growth, supports local businesses, and enhances quality of life through advocacy, education, and community engagement. Learn more at www.harrisoncountychamber.com.

About the YMCA of Harrison County

The YMCA of Harrison County strengthens the community through programs that promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Learn more at www.ymcaharrison.org.

About River Hills Economic Development District and Regional Planning Commission

River Hills Economic Development District and Regional Planning Commission is a nonprofit organization that serves as the primary regional planning and economic development agency for Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Scott, and Washington counties in Southeastern Indiana. RHEDD focuses on promoting sustainable development, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of life for communities within the district. Through collaborative efforts and strategic planning, RHEDD works to create a vibrant, thriving region where businesses, residents, and visitors can flourish.