The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut announced leadership transitions and its 2026 Board of Directors at its Annual Meeting and Business Luncheon on March 25, 2026, featuring Governor Ned Lamont. Highlights from the past year were also presented in the Chamber’s 2025 Annual Report, released in conjunction with the event.
Gilbert Appointed President in Board-Approved Succession Plan
Effective at the Annual Meeting, Megan Gilbert was appointed President of the Chamber, advancing from her role as Vice President, while Tony Sheridan will continue serving as Chief Executive Officer. The transition reflects a Board-approved succession plan focused on continuity, organizational strength, and long-term regional impact.
Governor Lamont Highlights Regional Priorities and Forward Momentum
In his remarks, Governor Lamont congratulated Chamber leadership and expressed strong support for the transition, emphasizing the importance of this regional organization serving as a “cheerleader for the State of Connecticut.” He highlighted forward momentum in workforce and economic development, the anticipated economic boost from America 250 commemorations this summer, and the ongoing need for advocacy around healthcare access, renewable and sustainable energy, responsible state budgets, and strategic investments.
These priorities align closely with initiatives detailed in the Chamber’s Annual Report, including a solar panel installation project; a regional Relocation Toolkit (formerly Community Concierge) launched in partnership with General Dynamics Electric Boat, with plans to include other major employers; and expanded community-focused professional development, workforce engagement, and policy advocacy efforts.
“This Chamber has grown in scope, scale, and strategic importance through many years of hard work. This transition is the result of intentional planning by our Board and leadership team to ensure stability and momentum for the Chamber and our members,” said Anthony Joyce, outgoing Chamber Board Chair and President & CEO of Chelsea Groton Bank. “The Board has the utmost confidence in Tony and Megan, and in their shared ability to build on the Chamber’s strengths and position it well for the future.”
Sheridan’s Legacy and Continued Leadership
Tony Sheridan, who has served as the Chamber’s chief executive since 2004, will continue leading the Chamber’s strategic direction, board partnership, public policy and advocacy efforts, and relationships with members, elected officials, and regional partners. His vision and steadfast leadership, even amid a global pandemic, were instrumental in bringing the Regional Innovation Center to life, raising nearly $3M to purchase and renovating a vacant building on Eugene O’Neill Drive.
“I am incredibly proud of what our organization has built and the strong team that makes this work possible,” said Sheridan. “This transition is about continuity, preserving institutional knowledge, and making sure the Chamber remains strong, effective, and forward-looking.”
Gilbert has been with the Chamber since 2012 and has served as Vice President since 2020. She has played a key role in operations, member services, partnerships, and strategic initiatives, including the development of the Regional Innovation Center. As President, she will assume expanded responsibility for organizational management, programs, and stakeholder engagement.
“I’m honored to step into the role of President and grateful for the confidence of our Board and leadership,” said Gilbert. “The Chamber plays a vital role in our region, and I look forward to advancing that work by building on the positive momentum already underway.”
2026 Board of Directors Announced
The Chamber also announced its 2026 Board of Directors and Officers, representing leadership from across the region’s business and civic sectors.
Newly appointed officers:
- Board Chair Marguerite “Meg” Driscoll, Pfizer, Inc.
- Vice Chair Raymond “Ray” Collins, Eversource Energy.
Continuing officers:
- Vice Chair David Meisinger, Connecticut Municipal Electric Energy Cooperative a.k.a. CMEEC
- Vice Chair Anna Lathrop, Gourmet Galley Catering/GG at Home
- Secretary Jeff Godley, Lahan & King, LLC
- Treasurer Laurie Finan, CENTURY 21 Shutters & Sails
Newly appointed board members:
- Mark Brown, The Mohegan Tribe/Mohegan Sun
- Henry Tessman, Great Wolf Lodge
- Tai Au, Au Restaurant Group
In addition to recognizing 2024-2025 Board Chair Joyce, the Chamber recognized departing board members Chuck Bunnell (The Mohegan Tribe), Brian Orenstein (retired, Charter Oak Federal Credit Union), and Peter Armstrong (formerly Mystic Seaport Museum) for their dedicated service and lasting contributions.
The Chamber emphasized that the leadership transition is designed to be seamless, with no disruption to programs, services, or advocacy efforts.