Chicopee Chamber of Commerce embracing new leadership

Aug. 9, 2022 | Matt Conway
mconway@thereminder.com

CHICOPEE – After guiding Chicopee businesses through coronavirus pandemic challenges, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Julie Copoulos is stepping down from her role. Chicopee native Melissa Breor will be taking on the chamber’s leadership starting after Aug. 19.

Copoulos leaves an indelible impact from her time in office. Since taking over in 2019, Copoulos generated millions of dollars in grant funding to aid businesses with the unique challenges they faced. Copoulos also helped with several business-friendly programs, like the community farmstand Center Fresh Chicopee and the continual redevelopment of the Center Space pavilion in Chicopee Center.

Reflecting on her tenure, Copoulos shared she is most proud of the way the chamber, local organizations and businesses banded together during the coronavirus pandemic.

“I am proud of being a part of a great group of folks with a really cohesive voice,” said Copoulos in an interview with Reminder Publishing.

Copoulos noted the continual growth of some of the chamber’s programs. In its second year of operation, Center Fresh Chicopee is drawing an average of 200 downtown residents during its weekly market and continues to serve as a reliable source for local produce.

“It’s been going great…it’s been bringing a lot of attention to the downtown area,” said Copoulos.

She also shared that the opening of the Center Space redevelopment project is fast approaching. Captain Jack’s Roadside Shack Owner Kevin Sahagian and other vendors will be occupying the space with food trucks.

“It’s been a long-time initiative we are coming to see to see to fruition,” said Copoulos. Center Space is expected to open on Sept. 1.

While moving to a new role, Copoulos shared that she will always remain connected to the Chicopee community.

“I have so many great relationships here,” said Copoulos.

For Breor, working intimately with the business community is a role she brings significant experience to. Breor previously worked in the Northampton Chamber of Commerce for four years in the tourism sphere. She recently moved back into the Chicopee area and was previously aiding Gateway City Arts with public relations.

“I’ve been looking for a new opportunity that matches my experience…There are certainly some similarities from Northampton to the economic development efforts here in Chicopee,” said Breor in an interview with Reminder Publishing.

Breor also served a key role in the development of the first Western Mass. Beer Week in 2016. The event celebrated several brewing companies and worked to unite the community and members of the beer industry alike.

“We pulled businesses together,” said Breor.

Looking forward, Breor expressed excitement with Chicopee’s economic potential. The chamber’s new director said she will work to create new events to develop business relationships and will continue Copoulos’ extensive grant work. Additionally, Breor anticipates the inclusion of several new businesses to the Chicopee area.

“I am very grateful I am able to overlap with Julie and learn from her…I am excited to see new businesses come into the district,” said Breor.

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