The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center is pleased to announce the hiring of Eden Wilson as its new Assistant Director, a role that will expand the Chamber’s capacity to support its around 450 members through enhanced services, communication, and business engagement.

Wilson, a Jackson County native and Smoky Mountain High School alum, is a graduate of the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a minor in Recreation and Tourism. She was named to the Dean’s List and completed a studyabroad program in Bali, Indonesia, focusing on global communication and cultural understanding.

In her new role, Wilson will focus primarily on member services, including onboarding new members, coordinating benefits, supporting business outreach, and helping manage the Chamber’s communication channels. She will also assist with Chamber programs, events, and operational support that directly benefit local businesses.

In addition to her memberfocused responsibilities, Wilson will contribute to the Chamber’s tourism and visitor engagement efforts. She will also play a key role in welcoming visitors and strengthening partnerships across the county, supporting the Chamber’s work as both a business organization and the operator of the Jackson County Visitor Center.

Wilson brings a diverse background in customer service, program planning, and community outreach through her work with Cataloochee Ski Area, Endless River Adventures, Need More Outdoors, and the Dillsboro River Company. Her experience includes managing schedules and staffing, coordinating group programs, facilitating reservations, overseeing outreach initiatives, and working closely with community organizations.

“We are excited to welcome Eden to the Chamber team,” said Todd Vinyard, Executive Director of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. “It is great having a home-grown person in this role of service to our community. Her communication skills, operational experience, and commitment to serving the community will strengthen our ability to support local businesses while continuing to be a welcoming front door for Jackson County.”

Wilson shared her enthusiasm for the role, saying, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the community I grew up in. I look forward to supporting our Chamber members, helping businesses connect and thrive, and contributing to the partnerships that make Jackson County such a special place.”

Wilson began her role with the Chamber on June 22.