EASLEY — Easley Chamber of Commerce President Kent Dykes announced Tuesday that he will retire next month.
Dykes announcement at the chamber’s Tuesday board of directors meeting that he will retire effective June 29.
Dykes joined the Easley Chamber in 2003 when he retired from Milliken Corporation to accept the position of membership director for the Easley Chamber. During his time as membership director, the chamber added more than 135 new members. In 2004, Dykes was selected as president of the chamber, and has since seen a steady increase in membership. During the recent economic downturn, Dykes has been credited for his ability to maintain the organization’s stability.
“It’s been a pleasure to have served the Easley area as the chamber president,” Dykes said. “I can’t imagine a better job to have than to be able to interact with folks in the community and serve as an advocate for the area businesses and industry. Easley has seen steady growth, and it is my hope that the chamber will continue to play a large role in continued growth.”
Dykes lives in Easley and is heavily involved in numerous community agencies, such as the Boy Scouts, Pickens County Vision 2025, Sassafrass Mountain improvement, and the School District of Pickens County’s business/education advisory committee.
The Easley Chamber of Commerce board of directors will begin a search for Dykes’ replacement immediately.
“Kent is leaving some mighty big shoes to fill,” board chairman Dr. Brian Swords said. “Kent has been a good friend to many and a very stable figure at the chamber for several years. We are very thankful for his many years of dedication and service to the community.
The chamber plans to celebrate Dykes’ years of service with a special luncheon, planned for June 21.