Robin Leonard Named New Executive Director of Chamber of Commerce

Grant County Chamber of Commerce has announced that Robin Leonard will step into the role of Executive Director beginning January 1, 2026.

A friendly and familiar face in the Ulysses community, Robin’s roots run deep in Southwest Kansas. Born in Ulysses, she grew up halfway between Ulysses and Lakin, where her father operated Dickey Trucking. After graduating from Lakin High School, she attended Barton County Community College, later marrying Colby Leonard, a Hugoton native. Together, they chose to make Ulysses their home.

Robin’s career path has been shaped by hard work and dedication across several local businesses. She first worked at a local liquor store before joining ALCO, then went on to work for E.L. Catlett’s NAPA and Innermotion. Her career took another turn when she joined Linn Energy, serving as an administrative assistant at the Jayhawk Gas Plant until 2016, when she decided to devote her time to raising her three sons: Dalton, Jackson, and Corbin.

In 2021, while reading The Ulysses News, Robin came across a posting for an administrative assistant position with the Grant County Economic Development and Chamber of Commerce. The opportunity sparked her interest, and after applying, she quickly found herself immersed in the fast-paced world of community events — her first major task being to help organize the Annual Spring Fling.

The event was definitely trial by fire,but it was the best way to learn and demonstrate talents she brought with her, bringing Robin to be a part of one of many events that bring our Community together.

Since then, Robin has been a key part of organizing and enhancing many of the community’s signature events — ones residents and visitors alike have come to look forward to each year. Including, but not limited to, Spring Fling, The Chamber Silent Auction, Race Across America, and the newest of all the Wine Walk.

Robin shared she especially enjoys community gatherings and plans to continue supporting local businesses and community involvement, furthering the work of outgoing Executive Director Marieta Hauser, who has led the Chamber since 2008.

Bob Dale, who played a role in the transition, expressed his confidence in Robin’s leadership.

“Robin is the right choice,” Dale said. “She’ll make the transition an easy one — she’s both willing and well-prepared for the role.”

Hauser echoed that sentiment, noting Robin’s work ethic and heart for the community make her an ideal successor.

“Robin will do fabulous,” Marieta said. “She’s an amazing fit for this community, and knowing she’s stepping into this role makes retirement that much easier.”

As she prepares to lead the Chamber into a new chapter, Robin’s enthusiasm is clear.

“I love this community and want to see it thrive,” she said.

Her excitement to continue building on what’s been accomplished and to help Ulysses grow was visible the entire time of her interview.