YOUR Union County Chamber is pleased to share that Helen
Thomas has been named Interim President and CEO. Helen steps into this role
following the retirement of longtime President and CEO Pat Kahle, who served
the Chamber for over a decade with extraordinary leadership and vision.
For many in Union County, Helen needs no introduction. With
a professional career spanning nearly four decades, Helen has built a legacy of
service, leadership, and community impact.
Helen began her career in banking in the Charlotte area, but
her heart and home have been in Union County since 1986, when she and her
husband Sammy moved to Monroe. She soon joined Heritage Federal Savings &
Loan, which later became First Citizens Bank, where she remained for more than
36 years. Helen held various leadership positions at the bank, overseeing
branch operations throughout Union County and neighboring regions, and played a
key role in team development and financial growth.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Helen is a deeply
engaged community servant. She has contributed her time and talents to numerous
organizations, including United Way of Central Carolinas, Monroe-Union
Breakfast Rotary Club, HealthQuest of Union County, Wingate University, Union
County Crisis Assistance Ministry, and many more. Her long-standing involvement
in faith-based service, particularly at First Baptist Church of Indian Trail,
has also been a meaningful part of her journey.
Helen’s relationship with the Chamber goes back many years.
She has served in nearly every leadership capacity on the Board of Directors
and is a proud graduate of the Chamber’s Leadership Union program. Most
recently, she was honored with the Chamber’s 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing her exceptional and
enduring contributions to Union County.
We are honored to have Helen’s steady leadership and deep
local knowledge guiding the Chamber during this time of transition. Her
presence ensures continuity, stability, and a strong foundation as we begin the
process of identifying our next permanent President and CEO.
Please join us in welcoming Helen Thomas to this interim
role. We look forward to the continued strength and success of our Chamber and
our community under her leadership.
Further updates on the presidential search will be shared in
the weeks to come.
Last modified: June 13, 2025
