Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce

12/18/2025

Congratulations to Rebecca Bahar-Cook on receiving the 2025 ATHENA Leadership Award!

The ATHENA Award celebrates the potential of all women as leaders and honors those who actively support and mentor them. Established in 1982 by former LRCC President Martha Mertz, this prestigious recognition has grown into a worldwide honor for individuals who achieve the highest levels of professional excellence.

Rebecca Bahar-Cook’s roots run deep in the East Lansing community. A proud Michigan State University graduate (B.A. ’92), she and her husband Todd have also raised two MSU graduates. She currently serves on the MSU Board of Trustees and remains actively involved on nearly ten other boards and committees.

A true powerhouse, Bahar-Cook’s career is defined by strategy, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to community. As CEO of Capitol Fundraising Associates (CFA), she leads efforts that help nonprofits raise philanthropic dollars more effectively, creating lasting impact where it matters most.

Well-deserved recognition for an inspiring leader!

12/18/2025

FOCUS on Lillian Werbin, CEO and Co-Owner of Elderly Instruments and our 2026 ATHENA PowerLink recipient, highlighting the importance of strengthening Lansing’s creative and entrepreneurial community.

Learn More on Page 20: https://www.lansingchamber.org/focus/

12/18/2025

FOCUS on Rebecca Bahar-Cook, CEO of Capitol Fundraising Associates and our 2025 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient. She shares how connection, collaboration, and listening define strong leadership.

Learn More on Page 16: https://www.lansingchamber.org/focus/

12/18/2025

FOCUS on Rehmann payroll compliance checklist to help employers ensure processes meet the latest federal and state mandates.

Learn More on Page 15: https://www.lansingchamber.org/focus/

12/18/2025

FOCUS on how the general election delivered strong outcomes for steady, pro-growth leadership, signaling voter support for regional stability and economic growth.

Learn More on Page 13: https://www.lansingchamber.org/focus/

12/17/2025

Since 1972, the CATA - Capital Area Transportation Authority has been keeping the Capital City Region moving. Serving Lansing, East Lansing, and surrounding townships, CATA provides reliable and innovative public transit solutions for our community.

12/17/2025

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual ATHENA Leadership Awards at the Lansing Center, bringing together community leaders to recognize businesses and professionals who actively support, develop, and advance women's leadership.

The event celebrates individuals and organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering relationships, mentoring future leaders, and creating opportunities for women to thrive across the region.

The goal of the event was to honor businesses and professionals who are supporting the potential of all women.

12/16/2025

Who was the first speaker of the Lansing Economic Club in 1988?
Hint: She is an American financial journalist and bestselling author.

12/16/2025

Downtown Lansing’s small businesses depend on clarity, consistency, and follow-through. As highlighted in The Detroit News, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce continues to press state leaders for clear guidance on in-person work expectations for state employees, guidance that was passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor and carries real economic implications for our downtown core and the hundreds of businesses that rely on a strong, predictable state workforce presence .

For more than two months, our business community has been asking the same question: What’s the plan?
We believe it is reasonable and necessary to seek direction from the state so businesses can plan, invest, and thrive.

The Chamber will continue to be the consistent voice advocating for employers, downtown vitality, and a healthy regional economy.

12/16/2025

This holiday season, we’re checking it twice and realizing the greatest gift of all is our members!

Thank you for supporting our community, growing together, and making this year so bright.

12/15/2025

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce is celebrating nearly two decades of our partnership with LEAP. The LRCC has many other partnerships across the Lansing region, including Choose Lansing, Capital Area Michigan Works! and Capital Council of Governments - Capcog, all highlighting the collaborative spirit needed to address challenges, seize opportunities, and build a more resilient and competitive Lansing region.

12/15/2025

FOCUS on our Ask the Expert Series with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, discussing prescription drug costs and their impact on health insurance affordability.

Learn More on Page 9:

FOCUS Magazine is the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce’s monthly business publication designed to keep members up-to-date.