August 27, 2025 – After 28 years with the Decatur Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (DACVB), serving the last 12 years as executive director, Teri Hammel has announced her retirement, effective Dec. 31, 2025.
“I’m retiring after 28 years and am looking forward to the next generation taking the DACVB to even higher levels,” Hammel says.
From its beginning, DACVB has been a sponsor and cohost of the Farm Progress Show VIP vendor reception. Hammel is responsible for the International Tent, partnering with the University of Illinois to secure interpreters for our global visitors, ensuring the community information is accurate in the programs and making herself available for whatever needs our international visitors may have.
Then there have been the softball tournaments and boat races. She also undertook the renovation of the Transfer House, giving Santa a place to call home when he’s in town and helping to make memories for those guests that come to town.
Hammel has been the recipient of numerous awards over the years, representing her involvement in the community. She received the James Randall Community Achievers Award in 1999, Community Champion Award in 2000, Chuck McCord/John Rowe Award in softball in 2015 and Moreland Jay Fink Award in 2021. One award that is most special is the Macon County Legacy, Outstanding Professional Partner award, which she received in 2024. Hammel admits that she is only as good as the amazing partners she has had over her career. She adds that having a great team has made all the difference.
For 12 years she served as chair for the Illinois Local Tourism Convention Bureau grant program. She was a commissioner for the United States of America Amateur Softball Association and volunteered with many other community events.
“One thing has remained steady throughout Teri’s 28-year DACVB career, she loves Decatur,” says DACVB Board President Phil Romano. “She works hard to do whatever she can to bring more people to Macon County. She is someone who loves Decatur, and it shows in all she has done.”
While Hammel makes plans to retire, the DACVB board of directors is conducting a search for her position. Interested candidates should submit their resumes to CVB Director Search, P.O. Box 1004 Decatur, IL 62525. To learn more about the position, contact DACVB Board President Phil Romano at (217) 620-3039, or email CVBDirectorSearch@gmail.com. Deadline for applying is October 4, 2025.
