Kaitlyn Molis, a six-year Eau Clairian, is the Director of Education & Young Professionals at the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce.

"I currently lead and direct the Chamber's educational programming, including Leadership Eau Claire, Leader Lab, Youth Leadership Eau Claire, and Young Professionals of the Chippewa Valley. I interned with the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce for 2 years while attending CVTC, and now I have been in this role full time for 2 years! I grew up in Whitehall, a small town about an hour from Eau Claire. My hometown, small-town pride has not left me, but I am grateful for the community, friendships, and connections that I have made in Eau Claire that made it such an easy transition from the very beginning."

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What place in town considers you a "regular"?

The French Press on London Road in Eau Claire. My boyfriend and I stop in almost every weekend as it is typically our go-to spot for brunch after church on Sunday mornings. We go so often that some of the regular staff know us by name! The food is top-notch and their friendly team makes you feel like part of the family.

You're on your deathbed and get one last meal from a local joint. What is it?

EASY ANSWER! I will never turn down the grilled salmon with sauteed shrimp, broccoli, and sweet potato puffs from Cowboy Jack’s in River Prairie. Highly recommend!

Best Kwik Trip location in the area? (Defend your answer!)

For me, the best Kwik Trip location in Eau Claire, is on Brackett Avenue. It allows for easy access to stop in and go straight down the hill into downtown where I work!

It's a Saturday and you're out in the Chippewa Valley. Where might we find you?

Oh my goodness, I LOVE the farmer’s market that we have in Downtown Eau Claire. It brings me so much joy to come home with fresh, delicious fruits & veggies to eat throughout the week. There is nothing better! One of my must-haves from the market is a treat (or three) from Jonnie’s Bakery. They provide amazing gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan treats that are the best around – no joke.

After the market, you may find me playing pickleball at a local court, golfing, or spending quality time with my friends and family!

If you could snap your fingers and see one new business open in town, what would it be?

I would love to see a Nautical Bowls open up in the area!

If you were to write a memoir, what would the title be?

If I were to write a memoir, I would call it So Will I. The title comes from a worship song that has always spoken straight to my heart. The lyrics say, “If the stars were made to worship, so will I… If creation still obeys You, so will I.” For me, these words are a reminder to live a life of faith and surrender, joining in with the rhythm of creation that has pointed back to God since the beginning of time. It’s about choosing, again and again, to trust, to follow, and to worship — not because life is always easy, but because if all of creation reflects Him, then I want my life to do the same.

What's your favorite public art piece in the area?

My favorite art piece to look at lately has been the Birch Street Mural titled “Contemplations of Pollaiuolo’s ‘A Woman in Green and Crimson.” I love its simplicity and also the colors and design that were used.

When someone visits from out of town, what's the first thing you recommend?

No matter who it is, I’ve always thought an ice cream run to Ramone’s can make any visit better! After that, you have to make your way through downtown for some shopping! Two of my favorites are Hello Adorn and Eau Claire Vintage!

What's one hot take you have about the Chippewa Valley?

CVTC feels more like family than what some four-year schools provide — instructors know your name, your goals, and become your biggest cheerleaders! I might be very biased as a proud CVTC alum, but hey, isn’t that what hot takes are all about?

You're taking a stroll on some local trails, a twig snaps behind you, you turn your head... what do you see?

The first thing that comes to mind is an older couple walking their sweet little dog, greeting me with a smile and a kind “hi there!”

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