By Madeleine Willis
Sarah Marion announced her departure from the Village of Manteno and the Manteno Chamber of Commerce in a press release to the Manteno Vedette on January 3. Marion’s last day will go into effect March 1. In her departure from the village, she will be starting her own organizational consulting business.
Marion was quoted in the press release, “It has been an absolute honor and privilege to serve the village, Chamber, its membership, and the business community. I hold this job so dear to my heart, so it was not an easy decision to close this chapter.”
Marion wrote that her role has helped her grow both personally and professionally.
Josh Stauffenberg, along with the other members of the board, support Marion in her new venture and wish her the best
Village Administrator, Chris LaRocque, will be interviewing new candidates to fill Marion’s position.
LaRocque wrote in an email to The Vedette, “Sarah has taken this position to an amazing level, and our expectation will be to continue to grow the Chamber and develop new events and programs to help the village and Chamber continue to flourish.”
The ideal candidate would be self-motivated, outgoing, and organized, LaRocque wrote. He also wrote that filling Marion’s shoes will not be an easy task.
As for new candidates, LaRocque wrote they are looking for people who are positive, excited, and progressive thinkers.
“This is a very unique job that offers potential for a person to think freely and present various new programs and events or enhancements to existing ones.”
Marion has been with the village since 2016 and, during her time, the Manteno Chamber has seen a 44 percent increase in membership growth.
As a community member, Marion holds Manteno close to her heart and will continue to be active in the community.
“Sarah will be truly missed for all she’s done, and we’re hopeful we can find a replacement who will be up for the challenge and able to achieve the high standards Sarah has provided during her years of service,” LaRocque wrote.
Marion did not respond to requests for comment.