Staff Directory
Meet Our Staff
Claudia Pazmany
Executive Director
As the Executive Director of our Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, Claudia brings a 17+ years of proven business development skills combined with a long history in Capital Campaigns, Philanthropy, Community Engagement, Social Media, and Alumni Relations, where she has built visionary and sustainable movements of giving through work in educational, community and grantmaking organizations.
She brings this work history to our Chamber to build a responsive and professional team that encourages a true partnership with area leaders in collective support of the civic, educational, recreational and economic well-being of the Amherst Area.
She continues to apply her non-profit skills to creating a more just and equitable world as the Advisory Board President of our local chapter of CHD's Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampshire County and in her previous service as President of Friends of Amherst Recreation, granting over $100K to area organizations to ensure vibrant recreational opportunities in and around Amherst.
Claudia has been a speaker, has trained myriad boards and volunteers and co-led board retreats. She has received training in social media & marketing, database management, board management, and in cultural humility, diversity and inclusion which in turn, support her well in her professional and volunteer leadership roles.
She has served on many search committees, and has been a judge for the Berthiaume Center for Entrepreneurship of UMass Amherst Isenberg School of Management, and is currently working to support Greenfield Community College’s workforce development initiative serving on their Future of Work Advisory Committee.
Claudia resides in North Amherst with her husband of 25 years, and both have advanced degrees from UMass. They have two children, Cary and Vivian, who are both enrolled in Master’s programs. Claudia was born in NJ, raised in Connecticut and grew up in Fairfield County. Though the call to the coastline remains, she calls Amherst 'home' and is happy to serve the community where she works AND lives and support the pipeline to encourage others to work and live here in the 413.
Heather Hamel
Director of Engagement & Development
With a dynamic background encompassing diverse fields, Heather is a driving force at Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce. Currently serving as the Membership Experience Coordinator
In her current capacity, Heather spearheads member management, ensuring that the Chamber's community thrives. Her strategic approach extends to marketing, where she crafts compelling narratives that amplify the Chamber's impact. She is also maestro in event planning, and orchestrates memorable experiences that elevate the community spirit.
Prior to her role at the Chamber, Heather served as the Gym Manager and Head Coach at Pioneer Valley CrossFit for an illustrious decade. Here, she honed his skills in member management, marketing, event planning, and new member development. Her leadership and coaching in CrossFit classes showcased a dedication to fostering both physical and community well-being. Beyond the corporate arena, Heather is an accomplished interior designer, infusing his passion for creativity into every project. Her collaborative approach and keen eye for design have left an indelible mark on spaces.