BEP Committee
About BEP:
The Chamber's Business Education Partnership (BEP) Committee works with business and educators to improve 
educational opportunities in Washington County.
Programs Include:
- Chamber YOU
- Teacher of the Year
- Reality Fair
CHAIRS:
Kathleen O’Connell, Washington County Free Library
Erin Clark, SEK CPAs & Advisors
Interested in joining? Reach out to the staff liaison, Donna Mitchell at donna@hagerstown.org or 301-739-2015 ext. 101
Resources:
SPEAKER'S BUREAU (FUTURE FOCUS TEAM) HANDBOOK
We encourage our members to join a committee. Most committees meet once a month for an hour. Not only will you be contributing to your community, but you'll be meeting other Chamber members who can refer your business!
Reality Fair
Last year, the BEP Committee hosted a Reality Fair at Smithsburg High School in partnership with WCPS and Patriot Federal Credit Union. Juniors and seniors participated in this interactive budgeting simulation where they selected a career, received a corresponding salary, and navigated real-world financial responsibilities such as housing, transportation, and other everyday expenses. Along the way, students also encountered unexpected costs and life situations, helping them gain practical experience in managing a budget and making informed financial decisions.
