Michelle Smith Named New Knox County Chamber of Commerce President

Smith to succeed Jamie Neal, who is now leading the Indiana Chamber Executives Association.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Knox County Chamber of Commerce has announced Michelle Smith as its new president, effective March 1. Smith will succeed Jamie Neal, who has led the organization for the past eight years and is now serving as president of the Indiana Chamber Executives Association.

Why it matters

The Knox County Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in supporting local businesses and promoting economic development in the region. Smith's appointment as the new president signals a transition in leadership and an opportunity to build on the organization's past successes.

The details

Michelle Smith is a Vincennes resident who has served as the executive director of Knox County Recycling for the past 10 years, with a total of 12 years at the organization. She has also recently served as the director of the Vincennes Education Foundation. Andrew Hinz, the chair of the Knox County Chamber Board, noted that Smith's proven leadership and passion for community service made her an exceptional fit to lead the organization forward.

  • Smith will begin her new role as Knox County Chamber of Commerce president on March 1, 2026.
  • Jamie Neal has led the Knox County Chamber of Commerce for the past eight years.

The players

Michelle Smith

The new president of the Knox County Chamber of Commerce, with a background in community service and leadership roles.

Jamie Neal

The outgoing president of the Knox County Chamber of Commerce, who is now serving as the president of the Indiana Chamber Executives Association.

Andrew Hinz

The chair of the Knox County Chamber Board, who praised Smith's qualifications and fit for the role.

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What they’re saying

“We are excited to welcome Michelle Smith as our new Chamber President. Her proven leadership and passion for community service make her an exceptional fit to lead us forward. We also want to sincerely thank Jamie Neal for her remarkable contributions and leadership over the years.”

— Andrew Hinz, Chair of the Knox County Chamber Board (vincennespbs.org)

What’s next

Smith will begin her new role as Knox County Chamber of Commerce president on March 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The appointment of Michelle Smith as the new president of the Knox County Chamber of Commerce represents a transition in leadership for the organization, which plays a crucial role in supporting local businesses and promoting economic development in the region. Smith's background in community service and proven leadership skills make her well-positioned to build on the chamber's past successes and drive continued growth and prosperity for the local business community.