About the Chamber

Mission Statement

Empower and support the success of businesses, their leadership, and the community.

Vision Statement

To inspire a thriving business community by connecting leaders with premier programming and resources.

Values (what we stand for, how we treat one another and our members)

Value	Definition
Collaboration	We believe in the power of working together, fostering strong partnerships among businesses, community leaders, and stakeholders to achieve shared goals and drive collective success.
Diversity	We embrace and celebrate diversity, recognizing that a wide range of perspectives strengthens our community. By promoting inclusivity, we ensure that all voices are heard and valued, fostering an environment of mutual respect.
Excellence	We aim to provide the highest standard of service, ensuring that our members receive reliable, effective, and efficient support that exceeds their expectations.
Innovation	We encourage creative problem-solving and forward-thinking approaches, leveraging innovative ideas and technologies to stay ahead of industry trends and meet the evolving needs of our members.
Member-focused	We are dedicated to understanding members’ needs, advocating on their behalf, and providing personalized support and resources to help them thrive in today’s competitive business environment. Our members are at the core of everything we do!

Founded in February of 1916, we have proudly served our members and the community for more than 100 years! Knox County is unique in our vast array of businesses that call Central Ohio home. The geographical center of Ohio is located right here in Knox County, the Village of Centerburg to be exact. Our location is attractive for businesses, experiences, and living in a rural yet vibrant community.

We welcome individual investors, home-based companies, and small and large corporations. Like all chambers, we offer many services and benefits to assist our investors. Every community has a chamber of commerce and their role in connecting people and promoting commerce is vital in our community and beyond.

Please visit our website often for information and invitations. Stop in our office located in the historic CA&C Depot at 501 South Main Street in Mount Vernon, Ohio.

The Knox County Chamber of Commerce serves all of Knox County and our neighbors beyond our county lines. How may we assist you and your business? Let us know and we look forward to meeting you!

Carol Grubaugh, IOM

Executive Director
STAFF

Carol Grubaugh, Executive Director

Carol Grubaugh joined the Knox County Chamber of Commerce in 2000 and has served as Executive Director since December 2009. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a major in Organizational Leadership from the Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Carol is a also a graduate of Institute for Organization Management (IOM). She is a member of Rotary Club of Mount Vernon, serves on various committees/boards in the community, and has a passion for her Chamber work. Carol and her husband, Greg, reside in Mount Vernon.

Debbie Ruggles, Programs and Financial Manager

Debbie joined the Chamber in April 2018 as Program Coordinator. Debbie serves as the Chamber's representative to the Knox County Safety Council, is a member of the Kiwanis International and serves on several committees in the community. Debbie resides in Mount Vernon with her husband, Cliff.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

The Board of Trustees serves as the policy-making body of the Chamber.

Its members represent the business and professional leadership of the community.

Meet the Board of Trustees

Executive Board