Northwest Chamber’s JoAnn Ryan Sets Retirement Date

JoAnn Ryan has been a staple of the business and education community in Northwest Connecticut for nearly 60 years. 

For nearly 25 years, she’s served as president and CEO of the Northwest Chamber of Commerce. 

Ryan announced she is retiring from her position, effective June 30. 

“Thank you for giving me the honor and privilege of a lifetime,” Ryan said during the chamber’s annual meeting Feb. 20. 

“Where would one find so many opportunities to represent and lead the most educated, effective and dynamic business community in Connecticut.”

‘Remarkable Leader’

Ryan was named president of the chamber in 2001, after working at Kelly Services, Inc. and as an adjunct community college professor. 

In 2022, Gov. Ned Lamont appointed Ryan to chair the Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education—a position she held until 2024.

She said she’s proud of the work the chamber has done to improve the area’s economy. 

“There are so many activities, whether it’s economic development, networking, education, and initiatives helping people, I love all of that about my job,” she said. 

“Every single day is a different surprise.”

Ryan also highlighted partnerships with organizations including the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board, Connecticut State Colleges & Universities, and CBIA.

“JoAnn is a remarkable leader,” said CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima. 

“In her uniquely passionate way, she has worked alongside a variety of stakeholders to enhance the state’s economy and align employment, education, and training programs with industry needs.”

Sucession Plan

Current chamber treasurer Ted Shafer will succeed Ryan as president and CEO. 

Shafer previously served as first selectman in Burlington and economic development director in Winchester. 

“We’re so fortunate to have him,” said Ryan. “He has the right experience, knowledge, and dedication to this region.”

DiPentima said Ryan’s “spirit, collaboration, and genuine kindness will be tough to replace.”

“Together our actions started something big and something good.”

Ryan

“But knowing the importance of workforce development, JoAnn has properly prepared so that the Northwest Chamber will not skip a beat.”

Ryan said she’s ready to slow down from the 80-hour weeks, but she’ll miss the people she works with and connects with through her job. 

“It is really about this chamber and all of you, the people who make the big difference,” she told the audience at the annual meeting.

“You are connectors. Together our actions started something big and something good.”