On behalf of the McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to recognize someone whose steady leadership and quiet determination have strengthened McMinnville and the entire Yamhill County region in meaningful and lasting ways.
Patty Herzog serves as Executive Director of the McMinnville Economic Development Partnership, where she leads the work of attracting, retaining, and growing businesses that create opportunity for our community. Through her leadership, MEDP has advanced industrial land readiness, supported business expansion, strengthened traded-sector growth, and positioned McMinnville to compete in a changing economy.
The results of that work are visible in family-wage jobs, expanded investment, and greater confidence in our region’s future.
Patty understands that economic development is a team effort. She brings people together — business leaders, educators, public officials, nonprofit partners — and ensures that we are aligned around a shared vision for prosperity.
Her leadership extends far beyond one role. She serves on the Chemeketa Community College Foundation Board, strengthening the connection between education and workforce opportunity. She contributes her expertise to the Willamette Workforce Partnership, helping ensure employers have access to skilled talent. She serves on the McMinnville Airport Commission, stewarding a critical economic asset. She is a board member of the McMinnville Area Community Foundation and Edible Landscapes of Yamhill County, investing in both economic vitality and quality of life.
She has also been a driving force behind the Yamhill County Economic Development Alliance, helping unite communities across the county to think regionally and act strategically.
This kind of leadership requires persistence, collaboration, and a deep belief in what a community can become. Patty shows up consistently. She listens carefully. She builds trust. And she moves important work forward.
No one builds a strong economy alone. We are fortunate to have a partner who understands that lasting progress happens when we work together.
Patty, thank you for your dedication to McMinnville, to Yamhill County, and to the people and businesses who call this place home. Our community is stronger because of you.
