Pam Southard is the executive director for the Greater Pooler Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, Inc. (the chamber), which focuses largely on tourism and adding overall value to the community.

Pam started with the chamber about 12 years ago, when it was known as the Pooler Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, Inc. 

“That speaks to the growth of Pooler and the chamber. When I started with the chamber, there were 90 members; now, there are over 400 members,” she said. “We’ve come a long way.”

After about two successful years as the assistant director, along with a noteworthy resume, Pam was offered the position of executive director when the original director stepped down.

“I was so honored to be asked to serve as the executive director. I had a vision [involving] growth of membership, working with a tremendous board of directors, and starting an ambassador council. That all fell into place. Here I am 10 years later, and there isn’t anything about my job that I don’t enjoy. I’m dedicated to good leadership, giving the community and tourists the opportunity to enjoy Pooler at its finest,” she stated.

Pam is proud of the entire team that she works alongside, as nothing is accomplished without their commitment and diligence.

“Without the staff that I have, plus the support of the ambassador council and board of directors, none of this would ever happen. They’re an amazing group of people,” she said. 

In addition, Pam has the utmost appreciation for Pooler’s finest—the first responders, giving of themselves each day for the betterment of the community. “We want to support our first responders. They don’t come any better than Chief Brown and Chief Simmons and their teams,” she said.

Proud of Her Community’s Growth

Pam is proud of Pooler’s growth over the past decade. The Maryland native remembers moving to the area about 14 years ago and having to commute to Savannah for nearly everything. Pooler is now booming with restaurants, hotels, retail stores, entertainment venues, and small businesses.

“We are a place to eat, shop, play, and stay,” she said.

As tourism itself is continuously increasing, many residents are excited about future growth and commerce while also appreciating a nice, comfortable place to call home.

“It may take a couple of years, but everybody will have the best of both worlds…more restaurants and stores and more of a historic community on Highway 80,” she commented.

Pam is anxious to get back to normal in order to welcome back events like Patriot Weekend, the Christmas Tree Lighting Festival, and food truck festivals, along with heartfelt events, including the Hearts for Healers Gala. 

“After COVID passes, we can start planning events. Moving forward, there’s so many events we can do for the residents, businesses, and visitors in Pooler,” Pam said.

In her spare time, Pam most loves spending time at home with her husband. And yes, “Pooler is home.”

912-748-0110

PO Box 708

305 W. Collins St

Pooler, GA, 31322