Branford, CT January 2, 2018 - The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has named Sheri Cote as its new President. Ms. Cote replaces Edward Lazarus, who retired from the Shoreline Chamber after leading the organization for 10 years.

As President, Cote will oversee the Chamber's staff, budget and operations and serve as Chamber liaison to Chamber members, board of directors and the community.

"Sheri stood out among the many candidates that applied for the position from throughout southern New England", said Jim Rochford, Chairman of the Board's Search Committee, "Sheri's extensive Chamber of Commerce experience and leadership skills will hold the Shoreline Chamber in good stead for the future".

Ms. Cote has 13 years of Chamber experience, most recently as Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut. Sheri helped guide the Eastern Chamber to steady growth to 1600 members, managed the organization's $1.2 million budget and oversaw 11 staff to produce more than 150 programs and events annually. During her tenure, Cote also chaired the Thames River Innovation Place, launched the Regional Core Calendar, and started the Eastern CT Premier Home Show and the Total Life Expo.

"The Board and I are delighted that Sheri will lead the Shoreline Chamber into its next stage of growth," said Camille Murphy, Chamber Board Chair-Elect. "We are thrilled to find someone with a solid Chamber background and who understands the unique needs of a membership-driven organization. We are quite confident that she will grow the Chamber's membership and increase awareness of the Chamber's mission and what we have to offer the business community."

"I am honored to take on this role and look forward to working with the Board of Directors and staff to continue the Chamber's vital work for the shoreline's business community and grow the organization." said Cote. "I could not be more excited about the possibilities that exist here on the shoreline for business development."