DOVER — The Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce board of directors announced Monday that it has named Dr. Dina Carol Vendetti its next president.

The appointment comes following the announcement earlier this year that current president Judy Diogo will retire, effective Dec. 31.

“The Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce plays a significant role here in central Delaware,” Dr. Vendetti said. “I count it an absolute honor to be given the opportunity to lead this organization. I look forward to collaborating with our community partners and our business members, as we carry on the essential work of our chamber.”

On Sept. 27, Ms. Diogo announced that she would be stepping down from her post at the end of 2021. The resignation was not a surprise, as it came near the end of a five-year leadership changeover.

Part of the plan included the establishment of a search committee charged with securing a new leader to fill the role of CDCC president.

The committee, comprised of selected CDCC Executive Committee members and certain past CDCC board chairs, was tasked with recruiting for the position, evaluating applicants, participating in interviews and, ultimately, recommending a candidate to the board.

“I am excited about my retirement, and I am excited for the new person who will have the opportunity to lead this wonderful organization,” Ms. Diogo said after making her retirement announcement.

Dr. Vendetti joined CDCC in July 2019 as the organization’s director of marketing and communications.

She came to the chamber after a 34-year career in education, working as both a teacher and a principal.

In 2010, she earned her doctorate in organizational leadership, learning and innovation from Wilmington University.

Before joining the chamber as an employee, she volunteered with the group in 2003. She also is a 2004 graduate of the Leadership Central Delaware Program and of Leadership Mastery. She has served on the LCD Steering Committee since 2004.

Dr. Vendetti was named CDCC’s Small Businessperson of the Year in 2011 and its honorary mayor in 2017. She has also served on the Excellence in Business Committee, the board of directors and the Executive Committee.

Dr. Vendetti’s first official day in her new role will be Jan. 3.

Ms. Diogo will still play an important role with CDCC, as a part-time consultant to assist with the transition to new leadership.