The executive director of the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce has announced her upcoming relocation to Branson, Missouri, marking a new phase in her life. Shari Sprague, who has held the position since June 2020, shared that she and her husband, Loren, decided to move to Branson after visiting the area on vacation and becoming enamored with its charm. Sprague’s roots run deep in the Albert Lea community, where she returned with a mission to create positive change and contribute to local development.
Throughout her tenure, Sprague expressed gratitude for the support from her board and the opportunities to engage with chamber members, focusing on their needs and aspirations. Despite the challenges of 2020, her first year back was particularly memorable as she met her husband and connected deeply with the community. Her work included involvement in various local boards, such as the Freeborn County Humane Society and The Hatch, and she played a pivotal role in initiatives like the Age-Friendly Freeborn County and the local Relay for Life, which expanded to include neighboring counties.
The chamber board is now collaborating with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce to recruit a new executive director, with plans to draft a position description in their upcoming meeting. Sprague has committed to ensuring a smooth transition until her anticipated departure on June 17, while continuing to support major events and initiatives.
Leaving the chamber is a bittersweet decision for Sprague, but she remains optimistic about the organization’s future. The couple has also been active in the business community, having sold Eastside Laundry and LS Storage on Ninth Street. They plan to finish renovating a tiny house in Albert Lea for use as an Airbnb and are seeking a new owner for their downtown business, All the Things — Studio & Boutique.
The Bottom Line
Sprague’s departure from the chamber marks a significant transition for Albert Lea, as she was a key figure in fostering community engagement and local business growth. Her initiatives and leadership helped shape the region’s economic and social landscape. The chamber’s future direction will hinge on finding a suitable successor who can build on Sprague’s legacy and continue to drive positive change.
This transition also reflects the broader trend of personal and professional relocations, as individuals seek new opportunities and lifestyles in different regions. For Albert Lea, this means both the challenge of adapting to leadership changes and the opportunity for fresh perspectives and renewed energy in its community initiatives.