Executive Director

Victoria Ivie is a dedicated community advocate with a deep passion for creating lasting opportunities in Cherokee County. As Executive Director of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, and through her involvement on numerous local boards and initiatives, she has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors. Victoria balances her professional role with a strong devotion to family and a love for officiating volleyball at the national level. Her commitment to both community and sport shines through in everything she does, fueling her ongoing efforts to build a thriving, connected, and welcoming Cherokee County for all.  

President

Bethany Chaney, Executive Director of the John C. Campbell Folk School, brings a wealth of nonprofit leadership and community organizing expertise to the board of Cherokee County Community Connections. With years of experience guiding organizations toward sustainability and impact, Bethany is widely respected for her ability to bring people together around shared vision and purpose.

Her work at the Folk School highlights her belief in the power of cultural heritage, creativity, and collaboration to shape strong communities. She sees community building much like the weaving of a basket—each strand of Cherokee, Clay, and Brasstown is distinct, but when intertwined, they create a stronger, more resilient whole. Bethany applies this perspective to her board service, ensuring that programs create direct impact while honoring the unique contributions of each community.

Her leadership is marked by a strategic mindset balanced with an inclusive, hands-on approach. Bethany is deeply committed to strengthening connections across counties, leveraging arts, education, and nonprofit resources to build opportunities for all residents. Her vision, grounded in both tradition and innovation, continues to enrich the cultural and economic fabric of the region.

Secretary

Carmen Lance, owner and financial advisor with Ameriprise Financial, brings her professional expertise and strong community roots to her role as a board member of Cherokee County Community Connections. Deeply connected to both Cherokee County and the town of Murphy, Carmen has long been recognized as a trusted leader who blends financial knowledge with a passion for community advancement.

Her service includes active involvement with the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation of Cherokee County, and other meaningful leadership positions that focus on building lasting opportunities for residents and businesses alike. Through these roles, Carmen has helped strengthen networks, secure resources, and guide initiatives that contribute to the long-term success of the region.

Dedicated to ensuring Cherokee County remains a place where individuals, families, and businesses can thrive, Carmen champions collaboration and sustainable growth. Her leadership reflects both her professional insight and her personal commitment to giving back. By investing her time, skills, and energy, she continues to help shape a vibrant future for Murphy and Cherokee County.

Treasurer

Sherry Raines, Chief Operating Officer of Peachtree Broadband and Fiber, brings extensive leadership and community development experience to the board of Cherokee County Community Connections. A former Director of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, she has long been recognized for her ability to foster partnerships, strengthen local businesses, and advocate for sustainable growth.

Her dedication to Cherokee County is reflected in her hands-on approach to solving challenges and connecting key players across business, government, and nonprofit sectors. Whether coordinating fundraising efforts, supporting infrastructure expansion, or advancing economic opportunities, Sherry works tirelessly to ensure residents have access to the resources and services they need to thrive.

Sherry also cares deeply about honoring and supporting veterans. She actively champions veteran-oriented projects, community initiatives, and service opportunities that ensure those who served have the recognition, resources, and connections they deserve.

As both a business leader and community advocate, Sherry combines professional expertise with a genuine commitment to giving back. Her leadership continues to strengthen Cherokee County, building not only stronger infrastructure but also a more connected, resilient, and compassionate community.