In October 2019, the Mitchell County Chamber and our county lost Shirley Hise. Shirley served as the Director of the Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce for nearly 15 years and led the Chamber with new initiatives, growth and a fierce commitment to seeing Mitchell County and its citizens grow and succeed.
Prior to coming to the Chamber, Shirley taught in the Mitchell County Schools for over 30 years. Many current business leaders said that Shirley was their hardest but best teacher they ever had. She cared for her students and worked tirelessly to make sure they had every opportunity to succeed. She cheered them on in the classroom and was a fierce Mitchell Mountaineer fan in the stands. She continued to support them in any way that she could even after they graduated and after she retired. They knew that Shirley was in their corner if they needed her.
As Chamber Director Shirley was continually writing checks to support student groups, field trips, scholarships and especially students facing hardships. Shirley was a lifelong learner and held several degrees herself including a Masters degree and a Doctoral degree in Education. She loved history and politics and was an avid reader and researcher.
In a way of honoring Shirley’s service and her love of education, history and community, the Board of Directors of the Mitchell County Chamber decided to create the Shirley Hise Memorial Scholarship Fund to provide an annual scholarship to a Mitchell High School Student. The Chamber and community members have funded this scholarship. There is an opportunity for anyone to honor her by contributing to her scholarship fund. To give to a deserving Mitchell High Student, you can donate here:
For more information, contact the Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce at 828-765-9033.