Rachel Porter, Executive Director of the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, has been named a 2025 40 Under 40 honoree by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). This national recognition highlights leadership that reflects the strength and dedication found within the local business community. The ACCE is the National Association for Chamber Professionals, representing somewhere between 1,300 to 2,000 chambers across America.

The honor reflects Porter’s passion and dedication to West Seattle, which is home to more than 77,000 residents and thousands of businesses across the Junction, Alki, Admiral, Morgan, Delridge, and other areas. Her work is driven by the belief that when local businesses connect, the entire peninsula benefits. Porter champions advocacy, storytelling, partnerships, and events that support local commerce and keep energy flowing through every corridor of West Seattle.

Porter noted that her board encouraged her to submit her name for consideration based on the ACCE's criteria. She pointed to specific initiatives that helped her selection for the national recognition.

Regarding the initiatives that led to the award, Porter said: "I think a lot of it had to come with what we were doing with the float hunt and our strategic plan and really having a peninsula wide focus. While each junction is very important, we're also the makeup of so much more. And that inclusivity, I think, has really helped push the chamber momentum forward."

The recognition, which includes a certificate and a feature in the ACCE magazine, is considered a proud moment for the West Seattle Chamber.

Reflecting on her commitment to the area and the significance of the award, Porter shared her enduring passion for her role: "I really do care passionately about West Seattle and making West Seattle businesses successful. In any way that I can, I will. 'It feels good. It feels inspiring and makes me feel excited for what I'm gonna get into in 2026."