Heather Eyster named 40 Under 40 by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives
Harrisburg, PA. (December 5, 2025) – Heather Eyster has been named to the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) 2025 Forty Under 40 list of emerging leaders shaping the chamber of commerce industry.
This annual recognition program showcases 40 of the industry’s top emerging leaders who have demonstrated success in their careers and made significant contributions to the communities they serve. The list includes CEOs and staff professionals from a wide variety of roles and chamber sizes. Honored for their creativity, dedication and commitment to identifying innovative solutions that will help shape the future of the chamber profession.
“These outstanding leaders embody the talent, energy and dedication to drive meaningful change,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “Their passion for strengthening their communities and promoting innovation in the chamber profession is shaping a promising future for those they serve.”
ACCE has over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry.
Eligible chamber professionals must be nominated by their chamber’s president/CEO, direct supervisor or board chair. Candidates must demonstrate meaningful involvement in the advancement of their community and proven professional success within their chamber.
Impact and Achievements
In her role as Senior Director of Investor & Membership Engagement, Heather leads several of the Chamber & CREDC’s core revenue, relationship-building, and growth strategies. Her responsibilities include overseeing:
- CREDC Campaign fundraising
- Membership growth and retention
- Advertising and sponsorship sales
- Engagement strategies for investors and regional partners
Her work plays a critical role in advancing the organization’s mission to be the catalyst for economic prosperity across the Harrisburg Region. Since joining the team, new membership sales have increased by 50% and sponsorship sales have increased by 24%, gaining recognition as a 2024 Top Sales Professional from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.
Heather is known throughout the organization and community for bringing the Chamber & CREDC story to life for investors and members, building authentic relationships that strengthen their commitment to our shared vision. She is a trusted partner to businesses across the region and a champion for telling the story of the Harrisburg region’s momentum, talent, and economic potential.
“Heather’s determination fuels our success,” said Ryan C. Unger. “Her passion radiates through her work, strengthening our culture and deepening connections with those we serve.”
The full 2025 40 Under 40 list was announced publicly in the Fall 2025 edition of Chamber Executive, ACCE’s digital magazine. View all the honorees online here.
About the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE)
ACCE is the professional society supporting the people who lead local, regional, statewide and international chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations. Our membership includes more than 1,600 business/civic organizations worldwide. We provide our members with information resources, thought leadership, education programs, original research, benchmarking, retirement security, and access to a network of peers. Learn more about us by visiting www.ACCE.org.
About the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC
For 140 years, the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC has served as the region’s catalyst for economic prosperity. The organization combines business, community, and economic development services to enhance the region’s vitality and livability. The Chamber is a five-star accredited chamber through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce—a distinction held by fewer than 1 percent of chambers nationwide.
The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) is the economic development arm of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and the Certified Economic Development Organization (CEDO) approved by the Commonwealth’s Department of Community and Economic Development to perform economic development activities using Pennsylvania’s funding programs in Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry counties.
