By JAN GRIFFEY/Editor

COLUMBIANA — The South Shelby Chamber of Commerce has named April Stone its new executive director.

Stone will begin her work with the South Shelby Chamber on Feb. 1, said Donna Smelcer, the chamber’s president.

Stone is one of about 15 to apply for the position, vacated late last year by long-time chamber executive director Stacy Walkup, who resigned to accept another position.

Stone at present is director of community and workforce development at the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce.

Smelcer said the board’s executive committee, which consisted of Smelcer, Kevin Morris, Dr. Ben Smith, Faye McGuire and Billy Jones, narrowed the applicants down to three for interviews.

“Hiring April was a unanimous decision,” Smelcer said. “We are very excited she has accepted.”

Stone said she, too, is excited about coming to work with the South Shelby Chamber.

“I have always enjoyed visiting Columbiana and am really looking forward to working in and with the South Shelby communities every day. I’m excited to work with community leaders, government leaders, everyone. We live in a great county and I am very fortunate and honored to have this opportunity.”