Chamber director explains why she is resigning

Kay Kendall says her announced departure from the Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce isn't a move into retirement.

"It's just taking some time to get my life back in balance," said Kendall, whose last day as the chamber's executive director is Feb. 29.

Kendall said she plans to spend time with her ailing mother-in-law and help her daughter select a college.

Originally, Kendall said she thought about requesting a leave of absence because she'll be out of the state for at least six weeks next year.

But knowing herself, Kendall said she'd probably still give 110 percent and never leave her work behind.

"I would end up trying to do the job on the road," she said Wednesday. "So (resigning) seemed like the best thing to do."

Robert Kelley, the chamber's vice president, said the organizational skills and leadership Kendall showed is going to be very hard to replace.

In addition to fundraising, Kendall increased membership significantly and jump-started many after-hours business events, Kelley said.

"She really will be sorely missed because she really knows the Glen Ellyn community," he said. "And that's a big part of the equation."

Kendall has always worked for nonprofit organizations. She joined the Glen Ellyn chamber staff in September 2004.

"It's what I've done my entire career," Kendall said. "It's rewarding to work for organizations that are giving back."