After serving the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce for 43 years, the last four as president and chief executive officer, Don L. Weiser has announced his retirement effective May 1.
In a statement released Thursday, Weiser said it is time for him to enjoy a quieter life and spend more time with his family, which includes wife Lynne, daughters Melissa and Laura and his grandchildren.
“I am thankful that Lynne and I chose Salina those years ago,” he said. “We have raised our family here, and we are fortunate to have our children and grandchildren here also. We love this community, love this organization, and see nothing but great things ahead for the future of Salina.”
Weiser is a graduate of the University of Kansas with a degree in journalism. After working in the radio and television industry in western Kansas and Missouri, he and wife Lynne moved to Salina, where he joined the Chamber staff in 1975 as executive assistant to then-president Bob Whitworth.
In his 43 years at the Chamber, Weiser has served in many capacities. After being named interim president and CEO in 2014, he officially was offered the position in April 2015.
“The 43 years of my Salina Chamber career have been very fulfilling and exciting, and I’ve enjoyed seeing and helping this community grow and prosper,” he said. “It has truly been a pleasure to be a part of that.”
(Read more: News – Salina Journal)