RADFORD – The Radford Chamber of Commerce has chosen a new executive director.
The Chamber Board of Director’s announce the appointment of Sarah Turpin as its new Executive Director on Friday, Mar. 13. She will begin her role Monday, March 23, 2026.
“A Radford native and Radford University alumna, Turpin brings a strong blend of business leadership, community-centered program management, and public-facing operational experience to the role,” the board announced.
According to the Chamber announcement, Turpin is the owner of Maris and Valle Events, a boutique wedding and event planning firm known for delivering high-level client experiences across the United States and internationally. In this role, she has overseen annual project budgets averaging $2 million, managed complex vendor and client relationships, negotiated contracts, generated revenue, and executed large-scale events from conception through completion. Her strategic planning, fiscal accountability, and partnership development align directly with the Chamber’s focus on economic vitality and enhanced member engagement.
Turpin also brings significant experience in public-sector and community programming through her prior leadership roles in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism and her years as an educator and program coordinator. She has managed community programs and special events, supervised staN, maintained regulatory compliance, developed eNective operations processes, and collaborated with schools, facilities, and local partners. These roles strengthened her ability to bridge government entities, nonprofits, and the private sector to support shared goals.
Her background also includes hands-on experience in marketing and communications— developing digital content, managing organizational messaging, and promoting programs and services to maintain visibility and engagement. Turpin emphasizes the importance of storytelling and strong communication in strengthening community relationships and elevating the value of membership.
“I care deeply about the success of Radford’s business community and the role the
Chamber plays in supporting collaboration and local growth,” Turpin shared in her letter to the board. “Radford is home to me, and I am honored to serve the business community through leadership of the Chamber.”
Turpin holds both a Master of Science in Education and a Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism from Radford University.
In her new role, Turpin will oversee Chamber operations, lead membership growth
initiatives, coordinate signature events—including the annual golf tournament and gala—strengthen partnerships, and serve as a public representative for the Radford business community.
“The Radford Chamber of Commerce looks forward to Turpin’s leadership and her vision for supporting a thriving, collaborative, and opportunity-rich Radford,” the board announced.
Staff report
