Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce President Selected for Advocate Position with the United States Army

Columbia, SC, March 31, 2011 --(PR.com)-- The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce has announced that President and CEO Ike McLeese has been reappointed as a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA). McLeese was selected by Secretary John M. McHugh to represent the state of South Carolina and will serve as the official advocate for the United States Army throughout the state. This is McLeese’s third term as a Civilian Aide.

Formed in 1922, CASAs have become a vital part of the United States Army, promoting good relations between the Army and the public, as well as advising the secretary about their regional areas. Each state and the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands and American Samoa have one or more CASAs appointed to serve as the link between the Army and their local communities. CASAs serve a two-year term without compensation. Terms may be extended to a total of ten years of service, followed by possible appointment as a CASA emeritus. To date, more than 500 individual have served the Army and the nation as a CASA.

"Reappointment as the CASA for South Carolina is an outstanding honor and privilege,” said McLeese. "South Carolina fully understands, appreciates and continues to support the long-term partnerships with our local military communities. This position plays a critical role in facilitating productive dialogue as these local, regional and national relationships continue to grow and foster new collaborations."

McLeese has longstanding ties to representing and supporting the sustained success of the South Carolina military community, as well as advocating for the well-being of military members and their families.

During his 16 year tenure as president and CEO of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, McLeese has grown the organization’s membership and non-dues income, as well as led the implementation of a strategic plan to develop and grow the Columbia area through the Navigating from Good to Great initiative. McLeese currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Veterans Policy Academy, Midlands Technical College Foundation, Midlands Business Leadership Group, Midlands Housing Alliance and the Board of Visitors of Anderson University.

MeLeese is a graduate of Anderson University and the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science.

About the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce:
The Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, membership-driven organization comprised of 1,500 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals in Calhoun, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lexington, Newberry and Richland counties. The Columbia Chamber serves as the voice of its members and the business community at large on matters of economic, educational, social, cultural and political concern, as well as supports and promotes the success of its members through networking, professional development, advocacy and leadership. The organization has represented the interests of the local business community since 1902.

To become a member or to learn more about the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, as well as its events, programs and initiatives, visit www.ColumbiaChamber.com.

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Media Contact
Nicole Curtis
Director of Communications
Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce
ncurtis@columbiachamber.com
803.733.1117 direct