Chamber Remembers Mike Hauser

The Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Staff regretfully inform our members that our President, Mike Hauser, passed away peacefully this morning, Tuesday, March 3rd. Mike Hauser, IOM, CCE, was a legendary chamber executive who was held in the greatest esteem by his colleagues, his staff, and the members of his chamber. His 40-year career in chamber work culminated in his appointment as the Chairman of the Board of the American Chamber of Commerce Executives, a position he was to assume this year. The Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce was fortunate to have his leadership over the last 8 years. In 2004, Mike guided the Chamber to a 4-star accreditation, but this week the Chamber learned that it has risen to a 5-star accreditation; an accomplishment shared by only a handful of chambers in the nation and no other chamber in the State of California. Mike was a visionary in many respects, and his counsel and presence was sought not only regionally and locally, but on the national level as well. He was especially adept at convening representatives of business, government and education to produce programs and actions that changed the community. Mike was a policy shaper in many key initiatives ranging from airline attraction, to the Innovation Council, the Algebra Academies, the Mayor’s Gang Task Force, and other key advocacy efforts. While many chambers are challenged in these financial times, the Santa Rosa Chamber is thriving with fully funded reserves and strong membership, thanks to Mike’s administration. Mike served as a mentor to many, and was often sought out for his advice and visionary thinking. He will be greatly missed by his staff, Board of Directors, and volunteers, who will forever strive to follow the example of his leadership. The loss of Mike’s insights will leave a distinct void throughout the greater Santa Rosa community.