CVB Says Farewell to Pippins
Shelia Pippins started her career with the Odessa Chamber of Commerce in May 1997 as the front desk receptionist. Within 6 months, she was promoted to Local Sales Specialist of the Odessa Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Working primarily with the SMERF (social, military, educational, religious, & fraternal) market, Shelia has been instrumental in securing some large
| 2008 American Legion Bid with Conrad Roberson |
conventions for Odessa over the years. Some of the largest conventions she is most proud of include the American Legion State Convention in 2011 with 1,200 attendees, the Texas New Mexico Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church in 2009 with 800 attendees, the Cumberland Presbyterian General Assembly Women's Convention in 2001 with 1,000 attendees, and the International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts in 2003 with 200 international attendees.
Her primary responsibility has always been selling Odessa as a convention destination, but like many Chamber employees she wears many different hats. Shelia has also been responsible for servicing convention groups and a host of media functions throughout her career.
| National Tourism Week Coloring Contest |
Shelia will be joining her husband Rick in Azle, a suburb of Fort Worth, in June. Rick retired from the City of Odessa in February and was sworn in as Chief of Police of Azle March 1st.
Shelia is not sure what the future holds for her concerning her career. "There are plenty of opportunities out there," she says. I think I will wait a while, get my new home established, get my daughter established in school, and learn the city before I start seeking employment."
When asked how she feels about leaving her current job and her hometown, she replied, "I love Odessa and always will; this is my home. Every great thing that has ever happened in my life has happened right here. Definitely I am sad to be leaving, but I am excited to start this new chapter in my life."
| Chamber Chicks at a Chamber Challenge Golf Tournament |
She adds, "I want to personally thank the Odessa CVB, the Odessa Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Directors, and fellow staff members for allowing me the opportunity and privilege of working for this great organization for the past 18 years. It has been a wonderful experience."
The Odessa CVB will be hosting a farewell for Shelia in conjunction with their Annual Meeting Planners Reception. You are invited to attend the reception Tuesday, May 19, between 4:00pm and 6:30 pm at the Odessa Country Club.
|