Salem attorney Michael Duane Brown is the new executive director for the Sublimity Chamber of Commerce, Board President Tracy Jones announced Sept. 22.
Brown, who grew up in Stayton, says he looks forward to working with the 350-member chamber.
“Stayton and Sublimity have changed a lot since I lived here. I’m looking forward to helping continue the progress and positive growth that makes this such a wonderful place to live and work,” Brown said. He began duties on Sept. 29.
“Interim Director Kelly Schreiber and Assistant Director Mary Albert have done an admirable job of keeping the chamber on track during the search and hiring process,” Jones said. “Membership levels are strong, it’s economically sound and well positioned to move forward under Michael’s leadership.”
Sue Nichols, chamber executive director for 14 years, left in February for a position with the Salem Convention and Visitors Association. Schreiber stepped from the chamber board into the role of interim director to ensure a smooth transition.
After attending Stayton Schools, where Brown was active in sports, student government and a Valedictorian of the 1967 graduating class at Stayton High School, he studied at Oregon State University. He graduated from Willamette University with a degree in political science.
Brown received his law degree from Willamette University, and worked three years in the Marion County District Attorney’s office before joining a law partnership, where he was a trial and appellate attorney for more than 20 years.
“I liked fighting as a trial lawyer, and I liked getting paid well for it. But, I want a more positive line of work in my life now and I’m excited about networking and promoting local businesses,” he said.
His father, Art Brown, was manager of the U.S. National Bank when the branch opened in Stayton.
He has an older brother, David, and an older sister, Carol, who also graduated from Stayton High School.
Brown worked on farms locally and at the Norpac Cannery while going to school.
Brown will close his law practice, but will continue working one day per week for “Just Judgment,” his arbitration/mediation business. Brown has five daughters; two are married, one attends Western Oregon University, one attends Chemeketa Community College and one is a senior in high school.
