CRISFIELD — Crisfield Area Chamber of Commerce President John “Buddy” Ward announced that due to recent changes in his personal and professional life he is stepping down as president but is willing to remain on the board of directors and in the past president slot.

He will also stay on for another season as chair of the National Hard Crab Derby and the Boat Docking competition, “if the board wishes so.”

Mr. Ward made the announcement at the end of the virtual March  board meeting which was shortened due to the lack of a quorum. He said his decision was “with a heavy heart” and called it an honor to serve, but “I do not feel like I can adequately serve in this capacity going forward.”

Mr. Ward was elected first vice president in February 2019 but moved up two months later when then-President Bruce Wooster resigned for business and personal reasons.

“This is not something that comes easy for me, but I feel it’s in the best interest of the chamber,” Mr. Ward said. He will continue for 30 days as the nominating committee seeks a replacement.

Before the meeting adjourned Jennifer Merritt was among the board members who thanked Mr. Ward for the “two million hours” he’s devoted to the chamber, calling that number “an underestimate.”

“We really, really appreciate all of the hard work you’ve done,” said Linda Singh, treasurer, and board member Stevie Ritchie said she was “gobsmacked” by the announcement, adding things “definitely won’t run as smooth.”

Eric Banks, a board member and vice president of the City Council said, “I don’t know what really to say” but with Mr. Ward at the helm things got done so it’s with “a bit of sadness” especially as he sees Crisfield starting to come together.

Mr. Banks said if Mr. Ward has a change of heart in the next 30 days, “I’d like to see you stay, you’ve been a good president,” and others agreed.

Mr. Ward said it’s been an honor to do this job, adding, “I love my town,” but as the automotive instructor at the Somerset County Technical High School he’s going to focus on certifying students who have missed many weeks of hands-on training this school year due to virtual learning caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The elected officers for 2021 are 1st Vice President Josh Nordstrom, 2nd Vice President Hitesh Patel, Secretary Tina Butler and Treasurer Linda Singh. Bill Buttrill is in the past president’s chair.