Terri L. Winfree has been selected to serve as the executive director of the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce.
Winfree will be leading an organization that serves more than 85 communities in the Southland stretching through five counties in Illinois and Indiana. The chamber lists its primary role as providing regional leadership, advocacy, strategic alliances and programs that unite and grow its members and business community.
Winfree previously served as president of Prairie State College from 2013 to 2020.
In naming Winfree to the top leadership position of the 35-year-old organization, Chairman Craig Schmidt said members recognized Winfree as “a life-long advocate of the Southland” who can lead the chamber and its board of directors “to ensure the Southland region has continued access to information, resources and advocacy to promote community and business prosperity.”
Before being named PSC president, Winfree developed a strong entrepreneurial background and served in leadership positions with numerous organizations. She has served on various boards and committees during her professional career.
She serves as an adjunct professor at Governors State University and the University of Illinois. She is a certified speaker, coach and trainer.
Winfree received bachelor and master of arts degrees in communication studies/human performance and training from Governors State University, and a doctorate in education and human resources from Colorado State University.