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Chamber director resigns

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By GEOFF FOX

gfox@tampatrib.com

Published: October 28, 2009

ZEPHYRHILLS - Jan Slater's family life has changed drastically since she was hired as executive director of the Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce in 2006.

Last year, she and her husband, Erv, adopted four children - two pairs of siblings - from Hillsborough County.

On Monday, Slater resigned from the chamber, effective Nov. 7.

"It's time to step back and spend more time at home," she said. "I need a more flexible work schedule."

The Dade City resident said she will work part time at an accounting firm in Zephyrhills.

The chamber hopes to fill her position locally.

"Jan was an excellent representative of the chamber, and it's an important job," said Mike Mira, chamber president. "The executive director oversees the entire chamber and represents the 550 or so members we have. It's a tough job and sometimes thankless. Sometimes it's late hours with mixers and other events, and sometimes it's early hours.

"Hopefully, we can find someone in Pasco who knows the community and has good marketing skills," Mira said. "Jan really went above and beyond."

Slater said she is most proud of helping to establish the Samaritan Project, a partnership between the chamber, city and Zephyrhills/Wesley Chapel Ministerial Association.

The Samaritan Project can help people pay utility bills or rent and provide references for temporary shelter, hot meals at a Samaritan Project soup kitchen, essential items for babies, school supplies or gasoline. The group also refers people to employment services and budget counselors.

Slater said she will continue to serve on the boards of the Rotary Club of Zephyrhills and East Pasco Meals on Wheels.

"I still have the heart and passion for the charities," she said.

Before working for the chamber, Slater was human resources manager for Bay Area Injury Rehab Specialists, a group of physical therapists with an office in Zephyrhills. In her native Michigan, she ran an assisted-living facility for senior citizens.

Other than helping coordinate events such as the popular Harvest Festival and the chamber's annual awards banquet, Slater said she will most miss the friendships she has made.

"That's the only sad part," she said.

Reporter Geoff Fox can be reached at (813) 731-1239.

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