Meet theTeam
James Miller - President
Our fearless leader here at the Chamber is James Miller. A proud native of the Willmar Lakes Area, James grew up in the region and now resides in the community of Raymond. He brings a deep passion for positivity, small business growth, and community engagement to his work.
James pursued his education at Ridgewater College in Willmar, Moorhead State, and Southwest State University in Marshall. Over the years, he has gained valuable experience working for a variety of small and large businesses, often serving as a versatile and dedicated team player. Notably, James excelled as the Director of Marketing and later as the Executive Director of the United Way of West Central Minnesota. In these roles, he proved to be a successful fundraiser and, perhaps even more importantly, an inspiring storyteller—connecting donors to impactful organizations and projects that support our family, friends, and neighbors.
In 2023, James embraced an exciting new opportunity to channel his expertise and passion into serving his neighbors and friends here in the Willmar Lakes Area as the President & CEO of the Chamber. Outside the office, James is an avid reader, a devoted Pearl Jam fan (arguably to a fault), and an enthusiast of golf, curling, and radio.
He is responsible for the internal operations of the organization and managing staff. He is the primary contact for business and community concerns and issues, and is viewed by the membership and community as a strong, effective voice for business.
Jami Tanner
Willmar Lakes Area Chamber
Director of Member Services
Jami Tanner - Director of Member Services
The Amazing Jami Tanner has served as the Director of Member Services at the Willmar Lakes Area Chamber since 2020. In this role, she plays a key part in supporting local businesses, organizing events, and driving initiatives that strengthen the local economy. A graduate of Augustana College with degrees in Business/Communications and Psychology, she is passionate about fostering strong connections and promoting collaboration within the community. Jami and her husband are happy to have returned to the Willmar Lakes Area to raise their young family.
Jennifer Lindquist
Willmar Lakes Area Chamber
BEN Coordinator
Jennifer Lindquist - BEN Coordinator
Jennifer is the ROCKSTAR coordinator for the Willmar Lakes Area Chamber's Business Education Network (BEN) program.
Beth Fischer
Explore Willmar Lakes Area
Executive Director
Beth Fischer - Executive Director
Beth is the fearless leader of Explore Willmar Lakes Area, a division of the Chamber. Beth is passionate about showcasing the region’s charm and unique offerings. With a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, she brings expertise and dedication to her role, managing operations, marketing, and efforts to attract conventions and visitors to the area.
Beth has a long history of community involvement and currently serves as the chair of the Minnesota Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus (MACVB). She is also an active member of local organizations, including the Spicer Commercial Club, Glacial Ridge Trail Association, Willmar Fests, Willmar Bikes, and the New London Area Chamber. Her work is driven by a commitment to enhancing the area’s vibrancy and fostering partnerships that benefit residents and visitors alike.
When she’s not promoting the Willmar Lakes Area, you can find Beth biking, kayaking, and exploring the local lakes with her husband, Jerry. Her favorite thing about the Willmar Lakes Area is, “The endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and the warm, welcoming communities that make this region truly special.”
Tanya Rosenau
Explore Willmar Lakes Area
Administrative Assistant
Tanya Rosenau - Administrative Assistant
Meet Tanya Rosenau, the master of multitasking magic at Explore Willmar Lakes Area. She has expanded on her unique talents as the vibrant Administrative Assistant since 2013. With her friendly demeanor and keen attention to detail, Tanya has become an invaluable member of the team.
Behind the scenes, Tanya is the administrative backbone of the bureau. She handles various clerical duties, such as maintaining records, filing documents, designing ads, and managing the website. Her attention to detail and ability to streamline processes contribute significantly to the bureau's efficiency. Tanya is adept at juggling multiple responsibilities, making sure that every detail is accounted for, and nothing falls through the cracks.
Tanya's passion for people extends into her role as a visitor support specialist. She is often the first point of contact for tourists seeking information about the area. Her extensive knowledge of the Willmar Lakes Area allows her to provide personalized recommendations that cater to each visitor's interests. Whether it's suggesting the best local dining options or directing tourists to hidden gems within the area, Tanya's friendly and informative approach enhances the overall visitor experience.
Outside of the office, you'll often find Tanya enjoying time with her family, reading and yoga. She is a true animal lover with two rescue dogs and one rescue cat at home. These furry companions are not just pets to Tanya; they are family. She frequently volunteers at local animal shelters, dedicating her time and energy to helping animals find their forever homes. Whether it’s walking dogs, volunteering at adoption events, or raising awareness about the importance of adopting rescue animals, Tanya is deeply involved in efforts to provide a better life for these animals.