Congratulations to this week’s 40 under 40 honoree, Emily Abernathy!
Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?
I manage the day to day operations here at the Tahoe Chamber. I oversee our budget, our marketing programs as well as all of our events and programs. My position gives me the opportunity to work directly with our members while also working hand in hand with the rest of the chamber team to create great resources and opportunities for our local business community. I coordinate all of our signature events which give me a chance to be creative and have fun with my job. In my career at the Tahoe Chamber I have produced 8 Sample the Sierra Festivals, 8 Business EXPOs and 8 Blue Ribbon Award Dinners as well as have coordinated 5 successful Leadership Lake Tahoe programs.
What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?
My favorite professional moment this past year was the success of our 9th Annual Sample the Sierra Festival. 2018 was the first year that tickets sold out before gates even opened. I have worked hard to improve this event year after year and have grown it from a small event held on Ski Run Blvd. to what it is today. The event has been mentioned in national publications such as the Washington Post and CNN Travel which gives me a great sense of pride in our community.
Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?
Fake it, till you make it baby! …Or as Socrates more eloquently put it, “be as you wish to seem”.
What was your first job?
I was a counselor at a day camp in Oakland.
Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?
I moved here right out of college and I truthfully just wanted to learn how to Ski and have a good time for a year before moving back to the city and getting a “real” job. 14 years later, I own my own home and have a “real” job in one of the most beautiful places on the planet.
Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?
I have been a volunteer mentor for SOS Outreach for the past 8 years. This winter I will see my second group of mentees graduate through the program. It has been a privilege to be a part of this program for so many years and to have the opportunity to give back to our local youth.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Just like most of us here in Tahoe, I like to spend most of my time outside of work, outside. I’m a big fan of paddle boarding, so in the summer you can usually find me out on the lake. If I’m not on the lake then I’m usually on the beach with my dog.
Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds?
Any Tahoe Chamber member business! 😉
Get in touch with Emily today:
Email Emily