Professional & Leadership Development

Lunchtime Learning

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Networking At Noon

The St. Cloud Area Chamber’s Business Development Council brings important and useful information to business people over the lunch hour through a series of lunchtime lectures. Take part in this educational networking event which includes audience introductions, lunch, a presentation, time for questions, networking, and a business card exchange.

Spring 2026 Classes

Save your seat today! All classes will be held in-person at the Chamber office. No refunds will be offered for cancellations made within 48 hours of the event. Please register at least two days before class so we can include you in the lunch count! Click on the titles of each event to register.

January 7: The Art of Feedback

Strengthen your workplace communication skills in this practical Lunchtime Learning session designed for professionals at all levels. Learn how to tailor your communication style to connect effectively with coworkers who have different personalities and work styles. We’ll cover essential workplace etiquette and provide strategies for navigating difficult conversations and resolving conflicts through clear, respectful dialogue. This session will equip you with the tools to build stronger relationships, foster collaboration, and create a more positive and productive work environment.

Sponsor:

Speaker: Tara Gronhovd, ALIGN Strategy

Tara is a change agent who thrives on transforming the status quo, bringing her passion for leadership and business to every endeavor. As the founder of ALIGN, she helps overwhelmed leaders gain clarity, build stronger teams, and drive meaningful growth. A Gallup Certified Strengths Coach and Certified High Performing Teams Coach, Tara specializes in leadership development, executive coaching, and improving team dynamics. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking and planning adventures with family and friends.

February 4: Mind, Body, Purpose and Connection: Dimensions of Wellness at Work

Discover how balance across all areas of life can lead to greater health, happiness, and success. This session will explore the 8 Dimensions of Wellness, a holistic approach that supports well-being of the mind, body, purpose, and connection. Participants will learn what the 8 dimensions are, why they matter in both personal and professional settings, and how to apply them to create a thriving workplace culture. Whether you’re an employee, leader, or community member, you’ll leave with practical tools to enhance resilience, boost energy, and foster wellness in your daily life and organization.

Sponsor:

Speaker: Heidi Uphus, Marco Technologies

March 11: Forecasting the Important Stuff: The Fine Art of Being (Almost) Right

What’s worse? A doctor telling a healthy person that they have a disease, or the same doctor telling a sick person they are healthy? What’s worse for a business owner? Having too much inventory in the warehouse because you overestimated sales? Or running out of stock for your customers because you produced too little? In this short talk Dr. Banaian discusses tradeoffs in forecasting, the cost of false alarms and missed opportunities. This session is great for business owners, managers, and professionals involved in operations, finance, sales, or strategic planning – anyone who relies on data or projections to make informed business decisions.

Sponsor:

Speaker: King Banaian, St. Cloud State University

April 1: Investing in Interns and Part-Time Employees

Discover how interns and part-time employees can strengthen your talent pipeline and support your organization’s long-term success. This panel discussion brings together an internship placement professional and representatives from companies that consistently hire interns and part-time staff. They’ll share practical structures, processes, and best practices for recruiting, onboarding, and managing these workers effectively. Attendees will learn how to maximize the value of these roles, from building future full-time talent to boosting productivity and workplace culture. Designed for managers, business owners, and HR professionals, this session offers actionable insights you can implement right away.

Sponsor:

Speakers: Tammy Stark, Career Solutions; Lacey Solheid; Rachel Theis, St. Cloud ROX

May 13: From Burnout to Balance: Sleep & Lifestyle Habits That Work

This session explores how healthy sleep and daily routines can significantly improve wellbeing, focus, and overall performance. Experts from a sleep clinic and a medical practice will explain the science behind balance and why it matters for individuals and workplaces alike. Attendees will gain practical strategies for building sustainable habits that reduce burnout and support long-term health. The speakers will also share simple, effective ways employers can encourage balance among their teams. Ideal for business owners, leaders, and anyone looking to improve their personal and professional wellbeing, this session offers tools you can put into practice immediately.

Sponsor:

Speakers: Rebecca White, Aslan Health and Jennifer Blum, Synergy Sleep & Health

June 3: Build Your Brand

This session breaks down what a brand truly is, and how it differs from the logos, colors, and assets that support it. Attendees will learn why a strong, clearly defined brand matters for attracting customers, building trust, and standing out in a crowded market. The speaker will share practical guidance on identifying your brand’s core message and bringing it to life consistently across your organization. Whether you’re a business owner, manager, or simply looking to elevate your presence, this session will give you the tools to strengthen and clarify your brand.

Sponsor:

Speaker: Rachael Sogge, Eyecon Graphics

Attend A Class!

Join us the first Wednesday of **every month in the Coldspring Conference Room, 1411 W. St. Germain Street, Suite 101, from 12 – 1 p.m. for lunch and a business presentation. The cost is $25 for members and $35 for the general public, which includes lunch.

Purchase a SEASON PASS for $100 and get in to all 5 sessions – a savings of $25! This is available to members only.

Because we order lunch for all attendees, cancellations must be received at least 48 hours prior to the session or payment will be expected. 

**Spring programs run February – June; the fall programs run September – January. There are no Lunchtime Learning classes in July and August.

HOW TO REGISTER AND SPONSOR:

To register, call 320-656-3826 or email Registrations@StCloudAreaChamber.com. The Lunchtime Learning Program is supported monthly by Chamber member businesses. If you are interested in sponsoring a Lunchtime Learning Program call 320-656-3800 for details.
 

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QUESTIONS?

Contact the Chamber’s front office by calling 320-251-2940. To register, please use the registrations email above, to avoid your email accidentally going to the junk/spam folder. Thank you for attending!

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