Mark your calendar for the 69th Annual Awards Banquet

February 28, 2026

5:00 p.m. - Reception | 6:00 p.m. - Dinner and Program | Location: Comfort Inn & Suites Conference Center

Nominations are open for a variety of awards for the 69th Annual Awards Banquet below! Nominate someone today!

*Nominations will remain open until 5:00 pm on Sunday, November 30th.

Outstanding Citizen of the Year Nominations

Rising Star Community Impact Award Nominations

Large Business Award Nominations

Small Business Award Nominations

Young Professional of the Year Nominations

Innovation Award Nominations

Economic Impact Award Nominations

2024 Award Winners:

Citizens of the Year: Ruth Helwig

One remarkable individual is bestowed each year with the highest honor as the Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award. The identity of the awardee is a surprise to the recipient and all in attendance at the event. Recipients of this award have made significant contributions in time and effort to our community, providing service above and beyond, promoting Mt. Pleasant to individuals outside the area, and are highly involved in, and have established civic activities throughout the community.

Ambassador of the Year: Paul Scoby

Chosen by the Chamber staff, this award is bestowed to a Chamber Ambassador who has shown tremendous dedication to the Chamber of Commerce initiatives and advocacy efforts.

Charles E. Anthony Award: Bary Blystone

Chosen by the Chamber staff, the award was created to acknowledge one of the Chamber’s most dedicated volunteers, Charles E. Anthony, and is given to a Chamber board member whose volunteerism reflects similar dedication.

Economic Impact Award: J. Ranck Electric

In partnership with Middle Michigan Development Corporation, this award recognizes a business that has displayed a proven commitment to the economic development of the Mt. Pleasant area. The business has increased the positive financial and social aspects of the region through advancements and growth of its business.

Innovation Award: Montrose Environmental

In partnership with CMURC, this award recognizes a business that has showcased a proven commitment to pioneering advancements in its industry. Whether through the creation of new technologies or innovative solutions, the business exemplifies a dedication to pushing the boundaries of conventional practices.

Legacy Award: Central Concrete Products

This award honors a longstanding Chamber Member that has contributed significantly to the Chamber of Commerce initiatives and their incredible impact on our community

Outgoing Board Chair: Jennifer Marar

Rising Star Community Impact Award: Brittany Smith

This award acknowledges a mid-career professional actively working to improve the quality of life in Isabella County, showing their dedication to our community, and is anticipated to continue their good work for years to come!

Small Business Award: The Barn Door Bar and Restaurant

This award recognizes an small business (25 employees or less) that demonstrates significant support of the Chamber of Commerce initiatives, creates innovative products and services, provides excellent customer service, encourages and supports the professional development of staff, and gives back to the community.

Large Business Award: Members First Credit Union

This award recognizes a large business (26 employees or more) that demonstrates significant support of the Chamber of Commerce initiatives, creates innovative products and services, provides excellent customer service, encourages and supports the professional development of staff, and gives back to the community.

Young Professional of the Year: Lizzie Dilg

This award recognizes an individual who is an active member of the Mt. Pleasant Young Professionals Network, while demonstrating leadership to improve the quality of life in Isabella County, and contributes to the community through volunteerism, career, and community support.

Shirley M. Decker Eagle Awards

These prestigious awards, established in 1990, honor the extraordinary volunteer efforts of one outstanding individual at several of the Mt. Pleasant area’s service clubs and nonprofit organizations. Nominated by the head of their organization, each recipient has “soared” above and beyond, giving of themselves to support their organization and the community. The awards were renamed in 2024 in honor of Shirley M. Decker, who dedicated many years of unconditional support for the Chamber and the Mt. Pleasant community.