Nominations Now Open for Springfield Chamber’s ‘Inspire Excellence’ Annual Awards
The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to be part of a time-honored tradition – the Inspire Excellence Annual Awards. This signature event will celebrate the outstanding achievements and dedication of our members who have contributed to Springfield’s prosperity and community spirit in 2024.
Every year, these awards are a reflection of the excellence, innovation, and dedication of local leaders and businesses who embody the values of our Chamber and enrich our community. As the Chamber continues to honor its 75th anniversary of incorporation, this year’s awards carry special significance, reflecting a legacy built on decades of innovation, resilience, and community leadership.
Nominations are now open, and will be open until December 3rd. We encourage you to recognize the individuals and businesses that make Springfield a remarkable place to live and work. On February 20, 2025, we hope you’ll join us at the Richard E. Wildish Community Theater in downtown Springfield, to honor those who have gone above and beyond.
The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting nominations for the following awards:
Any member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce may submit an award nomination. Nominees must be members of the Springfield Chamber, with the exception of the Distinguished Citizen award. A business or individual cannot be nominated for an award they have received within the past 15 years (you will find lists of previous award recipients in each nomination form). The Awards Selection Committee will determine award recipients based on qualifying information pertaining to the award criteria.
Award recipients will be announced and honored at the Inspire Excellence Annual Awards at the Wildish Theater on February 20, 2025.
BUSINESS AWARD CRITERIA
PILLAR OF THE COMMUNITY
A deserving recipient of the 2024 Pillar of the Community Award is an organization that has made a long-standing impact on the community. It is a company that has had significant impacts on employment, innovation, and stability, and contributes to the community beyond their core business.
2023 Pillar of the Community:
Rexius Forest By-Products
INDIVIDUAL AWARD CRITERIA
BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR
This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exemplary leadership in their organization, profession, industry and community. The recipient will have demonstrated a personal commitment to Springfield, integrity and excellence in business, quality customer service, and fosters a positive workplace environment
2023 Business Person of the Year:
Jenna Fribley | Campfire Collective
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
A deserving recipient of the 2024 Business of the Year award is a business that has had an exceptional year based upon an expansion, opening, or a turnaround. The Business of the Year has, and continues to make, a community-wide impact.
2023 Business of the Year:
Valley Contax
DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN
The Distinguished Citizen award recognizes an individual in our community who has demonstrated exemplary civic leadership. The recipient will have made substantial contributions to the business community and civic enterprises over time.
2023 Distinguished Citizen:
Dorothy Velasco | Author, Playwright
EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
A deserving recipient of the 2024 Employer of the Year Award recognizes an organization in our community that demonstrates exceptional commitment to its employees. They are dedicated to providing professional development and advancement opportunities, focus on workplace culture, employee recognition, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
2023 Employer of the Year:
Oakmont Family Dental
EMERGING LEADER
The Emerging Leader award recognizes an individual in our community who exhibits exemplary leadership in volunteer work and civic engagement, demonstrating a marked commitment to their professional and leadership development. They have risen to prominence through their community and demonstrate great potential for positive impact in the years to come.
2023 Emerging Leader:
Amber Kelel | Systems West Engineers
