Chamber Spotlight: Rebecca Ivins, Hourigan
Pictured: Outgoing DAC Chair Deborah Van Eersel, incoming Chair Rebecca Ivins, and DAC Program Manager Andrew Sides
Rebecca Ivins of Hourigan is the new Chair of the Chamber Defense Affairs Committee (DAC) Leadership Council.
"I am both honored and excited to take over as the DAC Leadership Council Chair," Rebecca said. "So much great work has been put in to date and it is a privilege to continue that important work. Our defense sector represents the second largest driver of our regional economy, and the synergy between all that the DAC represents and our business sector remains a strategic priority and top of mind for me."
The DAC Leadership Council Chair acts as the primary point of contact with the DAC Program Manager, ensures DAC program activities align with the DAC's mission and priorities, secures funding for DAC personnel and events, and populates the DAC LC with a balanced representation of local government, business, non-profit, and economic development leaders.
Early 2025 goals include celebrating local high school seniors enlisting in the military by hosting an Our Community Salutes event and building momentum on the unity of effort among the community leaders developing an "innovation corridor" with significant overlapping growth locally in the fields of advanced research, cybersecurity, biotechnology, private sector defense, and national security.
Rebecca's experience in construction and real estate development spans nearly two decades, working on both the owner and construction manager side. Her passion is construction, economic development, civic engagement, and growing business communities.
Rebecca strives to forge partnerships early among stakeholders and is quick to look for ways to improve processes. Her servant attitude and friendly personality have helped to create deep relationships with clients.
A large external focus has been centered around the local chamber, public policy, infrastructure, early childhood, and workforce development. As such, Rebecca is an enthusiastic participant on several Boards regionally, allowing her to be the connective tissue between each group’s efforts. She served as Chair of the Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors in 2023 and continues to serve as a Board member.
She attended University of Akron, followed by a mini-MBA from University of Richmond and remains an active, life-long learner. Rebecca is a golf enthusiast and has enjoyed watching her four children grow into adulthood.
The Chamber thanks outgoing DAC Chair Deborah Van Eersel of UVA Foundation for her years of leadership and service. The Defense Affairs Committee has accomplished tremendous growth and progress during her tenure.
We thank Hourigan for supporting the Chamber as a Partner in Trust.