NORFOLK, Neb. — The Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce announced Wednesday that Austen Hagood has been selected as the President and CEO of the Chamber. On Tuesday, the Chamber’s Board of Directors voted to approve Hagood for the position following a widespread national search. Hagood will begin his new role on August 2, 2021.

A native of Dallas, Texas, Hagood swiftly immersed himself into the Norfolk community, contributing to various causes and organizations through his extensive community service, fundraising and volunteering.  He has served as the United Way Annual Campaign Co-Chair, the Great American Comedy Festival Chairperson, a Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, as a Norfolk Arts Center Endowment Campaign Steering Committee Member, the Elkhorn Valley Museum Expansion Chairperson and currently serves on the boards of the Norfolk Area Community Foundation, Elkhorn Valley Museum, Norfolk YMCA and Norfolk Arts Center.

He most recently served as the Marketing Officer for all BankFirst branches and headquarters where he led corporate and public relations as well as marketing strategies and implementation. His extensive knowledge was utilized through advertising, online and social media presence growth, as well as implementing a complete rebranding for the firm. 

Prior to his position at BankFirst, Hagood was brought to Nebraska in 2013 to join the Flood Communications team as a morning show host where he quickly advanced as the Programs and Operations Director for the organization. 

Brad Dinkel, Chair of the Norfolk Area Chamber’s Board, commented, "Austen’s innovation, leadership, and exceptional community background made him the ideal choice for the role. He is uniquely positioned to represent the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce and keep the organization on a path of success. We are pleased to welcome him.”

“The Chamber is one of the most important institutions in the area,” stated Hagood.  “I am eager to be an active part in the growth of an already substantial organization to the Norfolk area.  The Chamber’s work for the business community is imperative and I look forward to collaborating with the staff, volunteers, and Chamber board to not only expand the organization’s impact but to also encourage the interest and safeguard the livelihood of local businesses.”