Megan Gilbert is the president of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, a regional business association serving over 1,200 members. Starting there in 2012, she ascended through roles including marketing, events and organizational leadership.
She now leads daily operations, member engagement, program oversight, financial management and regional partnerships, and has been integral in the development and management of the Chamber’s Regional Innovation Center, a coworking and entrepreneurial hub in downtown New London.
What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career?
My biggest accomplishment was supporting the concept development, capital campaign and launch of our Regional Innovation Center and new Chamber office. Overcoming COVID-19 challenges during planning and working closely with our CEO, I helped write successful grants, secure corporate donations and implement staffing and procedures for this transformational community resource.
How are you involved in the community?
I am proud to serve as secretary of United Way of Southeastern CT, trustee for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Trust Fund, board and committee member for Southeastern CT Enterprise Region (SeCTER), vice chair of the Chamber’s Foundation, and a member of WBDC’s Eastern Regional Advisory Council.
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What do you like to do outside of work?
I love spending time with my husband and 4-year old son, exploring fun things to do as a family throughout our region. I enjoy photography, shopping local, cozy games and spending time outdoors.
Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty?
Rose through roles at the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut from coordinator to president.
Meaningfully engaged in leadership roles and volunteerism for multiple community organizations.
As program director, tripled applications and doubled enrollment in ‘Leadership Eastern Connecticut,’ our signature management program.
Fun Fact
I spent a month in Peru studying ecotourism, visiting rural communities, the capital city, the Amazon rainforest and Machu Picchu.
