Staff Directory

Our Team

Meet Our Staff

Jacob Robinson
Executive Director

Jacob brings more than 15 years of experience building coalitions, fostering cross-sector partnerships, and advancing business leadership as a force for shared prosperity. As Executive Director of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, he works at the intersection of economic development, equity, sustainability, and community well-being to strengthen the region’s business ecosystem and support a thriving, resilient local economy.

His professional background spans nonprofit leadership, public-private collaboration, Main Street revitalization, community planning, and sustainability-focused education and research. Through this work, Jacob has helped connect businesses, institutions, municipalities, and community partners around shared goals that support vibrant downtowns, inclusive economic opportunity, and long-term regional vitality.

Jacob currently serves on several local boards and committees, including the United Way of the Franklin and Hampshire Region, Hampshire County Regional Tourism Council, UMass Amherst Campus Council, and Amherst Rotary Club. These roles reflect his commitment to collaborative leadership and to building relationships that advance both economic and social impact.

Rooted in a deep appreciation for place, Jacob brings personal interests in urban planning, permaculture, food systems, and outdoor recreation to his work. He is especially committed to practical, community-centered solutions that help the Amherst Area grow in ways that are inclusive, sustainable, and connected to the unique character of the region.

Polina Potochevska

Marketing & Events Coordinator

Polina serves as the Marketing & Events Coordinator for the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce. In her role, she leads the Chamber's marketing efforts through newsletters, social media, press releases, and other communications that highlight member stories and community impact. Additionally, Polina plans and supports Chamber signature events, working closely with dedicated committee members and partners to create engaging, inclusive, and memorable experiences for the Amherst Area community.

Polina holds a B.A. in English and Creative Writing from Brandeis University and an M.A. in Publishing and Writing from Emerson College. Prior to her role at the Chamber, she was an Instructional Design Manager at NewGlobe Schools in Cambridge, MA, creating English Studies curriculum and examinations for schools in Nigeria, Liberia, and Rwanda. Outside of work, Polina enjoys knitting and crocheting, reading, and trying out all of the great local cuisine that the area has to offer.

Joan Temkin

Visitor Information Center Coordinator

Joan Temkin has come out of retirement to serve as the Visitor Center Coordinator, bringing her wealth of experience and deep community ties to the role. Previously, Joan worked as the Membership and Events Director for the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce from 2002 to 2014. In her current position, she warmly welcomes visitors, answers their questions, and provides maps and brochures to help them explore the Amherst area. She is delighted to collaborate with both the Chamber and the Amherst Business Improvement District.

A long-time resident of Pelham for 30 years, Joan has been an active leader in her community. She served on the Pelham and Regional School Committees for 12 years, including six years as Chair of the Regional School Committee. Joan has also held leadership roles as President of the Amherst League of Women Voters and the Jewish Community of Amherst. In 2011, she and her husband, Paul Goulston, relocated to South Amherst. Most recently, Joan contributed her expertise as a member of the Feasibility Committee for the Jones Library Project.

In addition to her responsibilities at the Visitor Center, Joan oversees the preparation of Amherst Area gift cards. She warmly invites both residents and visitors to stop by the Visitor Center to explore all it has to offer—and to pick up a gift card while they’re there!