Executive Director Kaye McHan to Retire From Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC

Written By: Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC | Issue: Whats News

Kaye McHan, Executive Director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, has announced her retirement, effective June 30, 2025. Under her leadership, the Chamber has expanded its mission to support local businesses, enhance community engagement, and preserve the unique character of Highlands. The Chamber’s board of directors has established a search committee to identify her successor. 

“It has been an honor to lead the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, and I am proud of the growth and success the Chamber has achieved during my tenure,” McHan said. “I’ve received tremendous support from our board, members, the community, and our dedicated volunteers.” 

McHan’s connection to Highlands dates back to the late 1980s when she first visited the area. Captivated by its charm and strong sense of community, she made Highlands her permanent home in 2003. She began her professional career in education, teaching for 22 years before transitioning into nonprofit management and fundraising. 

Since joining the Chamber in 2019, McHan has guided the business community through unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that businesses and residents received the necessary support to navigate difficult times. Her tenure has been marked by the implementation of key initiatives, including board governance and organizational systems, the development of a new mission and values statement, strategic goals, impactful programming, and sustainable financial management. 

Her impact on the Highlands community extends beyond her tenure at the Chamber. McHan was hired as the first full-time Executive Director of The Bascom, playing a pivotal role in its transformation from a single room in the library to its current location. She has also managed multiple nonprofit organizations, always with a focus on strengthening their operational foundations and community impact. 

“Kaye has done a great job during her tenure as Executive Director,” said Blye Hunsinger, board chair. She helped assemble a strong board, built a very capable staff and helped form a volunteer team that together created a stronger Highlands business community that is focused on the right things. I always encourage leaders to ‘leave it better than they found it.’ Kaye can be proud of her contributions to making Highlands a better place to live, work and conduct business.” 

In addition to her role at the Chamber, McHan has been an active member of the community, serving on the PAC Board and currently with Friends of Founders Park. She is also a dedicated member of the Highlands Rotary Club, consistently advocating for the betterment of the town she loves.   

“I am confident that my successor will bring fresh, innovative ideas to serve our members and the community, and I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition,” McHan said. 

To learn more about the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, please visit highlandschamber.org or call 828-526-5841.