By Okon Ekpeyong

The Columbus Chamber of Commerce hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Annual Meeting in February, marking an exciting moment as the Chamber celebrated its members’ accomplishments and the business community’s growth.

This year’s meeting was exceptional, as the Chamber announced expanding its awards program to recognize more individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to the Chamber and the business community.

With a mission to promote a prosperous business environment, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce serves over 2,300 organizations in the Columbus Region. Through initiatives in research, government affairs, marketing, diversity, equity, inclusion and access, education, and talent and workforce development, the Chamber strives to support and advance the local business community.

Don DePerro, President and CEO of the Chamber, expressed his delight in the continued growth and success of the Chamber and its members. He stated that it was vital to recognize and honor those who have contributed significantly to the Chamber and the community, and expanding the awards program would facilitate that.

Awards

Marshall Troxel, who received the inaugural Emerging Leader Award, expressed his gratitude and excitement and stated it was a great honor to be recognized by the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. The event was at the Greater Columbus Convention Center/ASM Global.

The award recognizes a young professional who has demonstrated leadership and a commitment to the Chamber’s mission. Troxell has been instrumental in implementing innovative programs and initiatives that have positively impacted the city of Columbus and its residents.

The Nonprofit Visionary Award recognizes a nonprofit organization’s innovative approach to solving community issues, and the Chamber presented the award to Anthony Murphy, founder of Lead The Way Learning Academy (LTWLA). LTWLA is a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive educational and support services to at-risk youth in underserved communities.

The Chamber Champion Award recognizes an individual or organization’s exceptional commitment to supporting the Chamber’s mission and goals. The award recipient was Paul O’Connor, Senior Director of Advancement at Besa. Besa is a Columbus-based organization that connects volunteers with local nonprofits through a user-friendly online platform.

The Community Partner Award recognizes significant and small businesses’ contributions to the community. The Columbus Urban League/Minority Business Assistance Centers and The White Stone Consulting Group were the award recipients. Both organizations have committed to supporting economic development and promoting diversity and inclusion in the business community.

DePerro also expressed his pride in having such outstanding individuals and organizations as members of the Chamber. He stated that their contributions played a vital role in the continued growth and success of the business community, and the Chamber was honored to recognize and celebrate their achievements.

Each award highlights a different aspect of the Chamber’s mission and showcases its recipients’ unique talents and achievements. Other award winners were 

Melissa Ingwersen was the recipient of the 2024 Columbus Award, and the Small Business Leader Award Finalists went to Deonna Barnett, CEO of Aventi Enterprises, Peter Coratola Jr, President and CEO of EASE Logistics, and Cheryl Beachy Stauffer, CEO and Principal of Crimson Design Group.

Other esteemed individuals, such as Columbus City Schools Superintendent Dr. Angela M. Chapman, The White Stone Consulting Group Founder and CEO Andrew Kingery, and Adelphi Bank Chairman and CEO Jordan Miller, also gave remarks at the Annual Meeting of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce.

As the Chamber looks toward the future, it remains dedicated to supporting its members and the community through initiatives and programs that promote economic growth and development. With the expansion of its awards program, the Chamber hopes to continue recognizing and honoring individuals and organizations making a positive impact in Columbus.

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