Regional Chamber Announces Leadership Transitions: New President, Board

Pictured (L to R): Meg Driscoll, Anthony Joyce, Megan Gilbert, Tony Sheridan 

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.

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.

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.”

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.”

The Chamber also announced its 2026 Board of Directors and Officers, representing leadership from across the region’s business and civic sectors.

Marguerite “Meg” Driscoll of Pfizer, Inc. was named Board Chair, joined by Vice Chair Raymond “Ray” Collins of Eversource Energy. Continuing officers include Vice Chairs David Meisinger (Connecticut Municipal Electric Energy Cooperative a.k.a. CMEEC) and Anna Lathrop (Gourmet Galley Catering/GG at Home), Secretary Jeff Godley (Lahan & King, LLC), and Treasurer Laurie Finan (CENTURY 21 Shutters & Sails).

Newly appointed board members include Mark Brown (The Mohegan Tribe/Mohegan Sun), Henry Tessman (Great Wolf Lodge), and 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.

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About the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT: 

The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut is one of the oldest Metro Chambers in the state, serving businesses since 1910 and championing a vibrant, sustainable regional economy through thoughtful advocacy, strategic partnerships, and innovative programming. As a collaborative network of professional and community leaders, we provide meaningful opportunities for connection, visibility, education, and engagement on the challenges and prospects shaping our region’s future. Home to the Regional Innovation Center—a hub for creativity and collaboration—we support small businesses, elevate local industries, and drive regional economic development, helping to build a thriving business ecosystem across Eastern Connecticut. For more information, visit ChamberECT.com.