Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber President Melanie Minter to Step Down

Minter has led the chamber for over a decade, overseeing renovations and expanding regional partnerships.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:21pm

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A minimalist, photorealistic studio still life featuring a polished, geometric trophy or award object made of metal and glass, floating on a clean, monochromatic background and representing the leadership and community impact of the outgoing chamber president.A symbolic trophy honors the legacy of Melanie Minter's impactful leadership of the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce.Lebanon Today

Melanie Minter, the President and CEO of the Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber of Commerce, has announced her plans to step down from the role after more than a decade of service. Minter informed chamber members of her decision in an email, citing recent personal changes that have motivated her to reevaluate her priorities and reimagine the future.

Why it matters

Minter's departure marks the end of an era for the Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber, which she has led since 2015. Under her guidance, the chamber has undergone significant changes, including a renovation of its building and an expansion of its regional presence through partnerships with various economic development entities. Her leadership has been credited with helping to bridge the chamber's past and future, making it a more vibrant and engaged organization within the community.

The details

Minter took on the role of President and CEO in January 2015, after the previous leader, Sue Vanatta, retired in 2014 following a 23-year tenure. During her time at the helm, Minter oversaw the renovation of the chamber's building in 2018 and implemented various technology upgrades throughout the office. She also helped to expand the chamber's regional influence, with the organization becoming involved in entities such as the Wilson County Joint Economic and Community Development Board, the Transit Alliance of Middle Tennessee, Leadership Wilson, and Leadership Middle Tennessee.

  • Minter informed chamber members of her decision to step down in an email last week, though she did not specify her last day.
  • Minter took on the role of President and CEO in January 2015, after the previous leader, Sue Vanatta, retired in 2014 following a 23-year tenure.

The players

Melanie Minter

The outgoing President and CEO of the Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber of Commerce, who has held the position since 2015.

Sue Vanatta

The previous President and CEO of the Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber of Commerce, who retired in 2014 after a 23-year tenure.

Rick Bell

The Mayor of Lebanon, who has worked closely with Minter during her time as chamber president.

Necole Bell

The wife of Mayor Rick Bell, who served as the Chamber Board president in 2019.

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What they’re saying

“I like to think my biggest accomplishment has been helping people, impacting people and businesses and making a difference in our community on different levels, whether that be business-related, having something fun to do or quality of life.”

— Melanie Minter, Outgoing President and CEO, Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber of Commerce

“I just want to thank Melanie for her years being the President of the Chamber. In my five years as mayor, you've been a perfect partner to the city. We've worked on a lot of things together; not just events, but other things, as well.”

— Rick Bell, Mayor of Lebanon

What’s next

The Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber of Commerce will begin the process of finding a new President and CEO to replace Minter, who has not specified her last day in the role.

The takeaway

Melanie Minter's departure from the Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber of Commerce marks the end of an era for the organization, which has undergone significant changes and expanded its regional influence under her leadership over the past decade. Her successor will have the challenge of building upon the chamber's momentum and continuing to serve as a vital partner for the local business community.