Annual Awards Night
Award Categories
Chamber Ambassador of the Year
Chamber Ambassadors are the “goodwill arm” of the Chamber, they commit hours of their time assisting with ribbon cuttings, and attending Chamber events, and reaching out to new members making sure they feel connected to the Chamber and to our network of members. This honor is awarded to the person who accumulates the most Ambassador Points throughout the year.
Chamber Volunteer of the Year
The Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award is given to someone who exhibits the qualities of a servant leader and who has invested time and/or support in the Chamber. This person should have helped with multiple organizations within the Chamber or be positively affecting the state of the Chamber.
Outstanding Contributions by an Organization or Business
The award for Outstanding Contribution by an Organization or Business is given to an organization or business that has made a difference in the lives of Southeast Kentuckians. This award cannot be given to an individual.
Small Business of the Year
The award for Small Business of the Year honors a business with 20 or fewer employees that has implemented business strategies that have proved successful in generating extraordinary economic activity; setting an example of successful local entrepreneurship.
Service Organization of the Year
The award for Service Organization of the Year is given to an organization that has shown great support to the citizens and families of Eastern Kentucky. The organization must strongly impact the community and serve its people.
Citizen of the Year Award
The honor of Citizen of the Year is given to a person who has consistently demonstrated excellence in professional and community leadership and has given freely of their time and energy for the betterment of the community, contributing to positive economic growth or stability for the area.
Business Person of the Year
The award for Business Person of the Year is given to an individual, or business partners, who has demonstrated support for the advancement and leadership development of business and professionals in Eastern Kentucky. The recipient not only has the region at heart but also the further development of its people.
Business of the Year
The award Business of the Year is given to a business who has exemplified economic impact and expansion in the region, as well as being a strong community partner. This business should have a stabilized workforce and influence on the local, regional, or state level.
Junior Williamson Memorial, East Kentucky Ambassador
The honor of East Kentucky Ambassador has been awarded since 1991 in recognition of the late Junior Williamson. Many remember Junior, but many may not know what a true ambassador he was for Eastern Kentucky; raising positive awareness of the area beyond its borders. This honor is awarded to a person who embodies the role of an ambassador for Eastern Kentucky throughout the region and the Commonwealth.
Lon B. & Mary Evelyn Rogers Lifetime Achievement Award
The Lon B. and Mary Evelyn Rogers Lifetime Achievement award is given to an Eastern Kentuckian who has spent years of their life striving to make East Kentucky a better place; someone who has a strong love for the region and has made a significant impact, creating change and progress in the region.