Ashley Alford Glance
President , Putnam County Chamber of Commerce
MAGGIE HATFIELD TRACY A . TOLER PHOTOGRAPHY
Growing up in Putnam County , Ashley Alford Glance , president of the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce , recalls being surrounded by the love of her family . That close-knit community is what molded her into the leader she is today .
“ I cherished the moments spent with my loved ones , which has since shaped my deep appreciation for family bonds ,” she says . “ I have the utmost respect for them due to the sacrifices they made to ensure I had every opportunity to learn , grow and thrive .”
Alford Glance credits her mother as someone who has been extremely influential in her life .
“ Her compassionate nature and relentless dedication to helping others serve as a constant reminder of the impact one person can have ,” she says . “ She embodies the qualities I aspire to cultivate within myself .”
Even though her father passed away in 2014 , Alford Glance recalls the fundamental lessons he imparted during her childhood .
“ He taught me how to be a leader , to exemplify compassionate treatment of others and above all , to recognize that the most popular choice isn ’ t necessarily the right one ,” she says .
Alford Glance admires the stunning glass work in the Oglebay Glass Museum .
For the past 13 years , Alford Glance has been dedicated to the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce , and there is a specific person to whom she gives credit for starting her career path .
“ Mary Jo Hendricks , a cherished family friend who held a prominent role on the chamber of commerce board of directors , played a pivotal role in steering me in this direction . Following my college graduation , Mary Jo encouraged me to apply for an internship with the Putnam chamber , an opportunity that unknowingly set the course for my current 13-year tenure with the organization ,” she says .
Over the years , Alford Glance has learned that teamwork is the key to success .
“ When you align yourself with individuals committed to a shared objective , the results surpass what can be achieved individually . Our community thrives thanks to an exceptional group of collaborative partners who contin ually strive to enhance this area ,” she says .
Alford Glance has been devoted to giving back to her community in both her professional and personal life . When determining which causes to support , she likes to give back to organizations that influence her community directly .
“ Because of the nature of my job , it is of utmost importance to remain connected to the needs of the community ,” she says .
For these reasons , Alford Glance has given her time and talents in many capacities to different organizations , such as serving as a member of the board of directors for Advantage Valley , Dress for Success River Cities and the Putnam Farmer ’ s Market ; volunteer for Backpack Buddies ; club member and president nominee for the Putnam County Rotary Club ; board member for the Hurricane Development Authority ; and organization president for the West Virginia Association of Chamber Executives .
“ Giving back to the community is important . Even in regions where you might not perceive apparent needs , they still exist ,” she says .
Alford Glance couldn ’ t imagine living or working anywhere besides the Mountain State .
“ The opportunity for my husband and I to raise our son in a community that has given me so much is a unique experience that cannot be replicated elsewhere ,” she says . •
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ?
animal :
Owl
snack :
Sweet Mama ’ s pepperoni roll
season :
Fall
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