Colleen Faacks selected as new leader of Pequot Lakes Chamber

Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce

We’re excited to announce that Colleen Faacks will become our new Pequot Lakes Chamber Director! Her first day will be Monday, August 26.

Colleen brings a wealth of experience and deep commitment to business and community development. She served as the Executive Officer of the Mid-Minnesota Builders Association (MMBA) for the past 22 years, leading initiatives like the annual Home Show & Expo and Tools for Schools Program.

“My time at the MMBA was truly rewarding, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the members and community,” she said. “My experience fostered a personal passion for supporting local businesses, and I look forward to bringing that same passion and dedication to the Pequot Lakes Chamber.”

Justin Berg, MMBA Board Chair and General Superintendent at Nor-Son, said Colleen played a vital role in growing the builders association into what it is today. “She has been the face of MMBA for over two decades,” he added. “We wish Colleen the best in her new role with the chamber, and we thank her for all the years of dedication and hard work.”

Faacks will now lead the chamber’s efforts to promote local businesses, build a stronger community, and support economic growth in the Pequot Lakes area. She will succeed Nichole Heinen, who will become our new Director of Tourism in mid-September.

“My experience fostered a personal passion for supporting local businesses, and I look forward to bringing that same passion and dedication to the Pequot Lakes Chamber."

Colleen Faacks

“Nichole is leaving behind some big shoes to fill, but we couldn’t have asked for a more experienced leader to take the reins in Pequot Lakes,” said Matt Kilian, Brainerd Lakes Chamber president. “Colleen knows how to have fun and inspire others, and she has a well-earned reputation of doing whatever it takes to get the job done.”

“My husband and I moved to this area 30 years ago. We put three kids through Pequot Lakes schools and have seen the incredible impact of the Chamber firsthand,” she said. “I’m honored to serve the Pequot Lakes community and work alongside the amazing businesses and residents here.”

Special thanks to the Pequot Lakes Chamber Advisory Board for leading our search process. They include:

Jill Andersen, Lonesome Cottage Furniture Company
Lisa Kaneski, Dairy Queen
Colton Maher, Woods to Water Real Estate
Bruce Meade, Edward Jones
Nancy Vogt, Pine & Lakes Echo Journal

Meet Colleen!

All are invited to welcome Colleen Faacks to her new position:

Explore Pequot Lakes Business Meeting

Minnesota Traders, Pequot Lakes (upstairs)
Wednesday, August 28
7:45 to 9:15 a.m.