Meet Kira

Kira Zavala is a well-respected and dedicated community leader in Southern Oregon. Currently serving as the Vice President of Communications & Programs for The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County, Kira has a long history with the Chamber, including previous roles as the Director of Business Development & Partnerships (2018-2024) and Membership Retention and Development Assistant (2014-2018). Her tenure at the Chamber is marked by significant contributions to strategic planning, marketing communications, and event organization, all aimed at enhancing the Chamber’s value and impact on helping businesses succeed in Southern Oregon.

Born and raised in Southern Oregon, Kira moved to Palm Springs, California in 1997, where she graduated from Palm Springs High School and attended College of the Desert in Palm Desert, California. In 2005, Kira returned to Southern Oregon (specifically Eagle Point), driven by a passion for community service. She has supported individuals with disabilities and has also provided job coaching to help individuals overcome barriers to employment and engage in various volunteer activities.

Kira Zavala’s commitment to her community extends beyond her professional and volunteer roles. Her philanthropic work with the Toys for Tots Foundation, where she served as the Jackson County Coordinator from 2015 to 2021, is a testament to her dedication. In this capacity, she spearheaded large-scale fundraising events, secured corporate sponsorships, and coordinated the distribution of toys to over 50,000 children in Jackson County, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many.

Her leadership extends to the Oregon Employer Council, where she served as Jackson County President, and the Rogue Valley Society of Human Resource Management, where she held the position of Workforce Readiness Director. Kira has also been actively involved in organizing events and facilitating peer-to-peer fundraising efforts as part of the Top 10 Emerging Leaders initiative, where in 2016, Kira was named Leaders Choice and Top 3 Emerging Leaders in Jackson County. She has been elected twice as PTO Fundraising Chair and as PTO Vice President, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to community service.

Kira is also actively engaged in several boards and councils. She sits on the Emerging Leaders Council for The Western Association of Chamber Executives, The Butte Creek Mill Board, assisting with operations, and the advisory board for the Jackson County Salvation Army.

Kira’s dedication and contributions have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Ambassador of the Year by The Chamber of Medford/Jackson County, the Crystal Heart Award from the Children’s Advocacy Center, and a Certificate of Recognition for community contributions from Oregon State Senator Alan DeBoer and Congressman Greg Walden.

A lifelong learner, Kira has completed various leadership and chamber-specific education programs, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute, where she earned a certification in Organizational Management, and the Western Association of Chamber Executives Academy. Her entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with her diplomatic and strategic approach, makes her a trusted and influential figure within the business community of Southern Oregon.

Kira Zavala continues to inspire and lead, driven by her deep commitment to making a positive impact on her community and helping others succeed.