The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce celebrated annual accomplishments, recognized volunteers and presented business awards at its Annual Business Awards Luncheon, presented by Meadows Bank. 

The local business community nominated all finalists, and award recipients were determined by a committee of peer chamber members with approval from the organization’s Board of Directors.

Board Chairperson Emily Staples, owner of Fastsigns of Gilbert, recognized the volunteers who dedicated themselves to the chamber’s mission this past year as committee chairs. Individuals recognized included:

• Kevin De Rosa of Advance Champion Supply; chair of the Chamber’s Ambassador Committee;
• Julie Graham of Dignity Health; chair of the Chamber’s Public Policy Committee;
• Dallas Sloan of Colair Beauty Lounge and Med Spa; chair of the Chamber’s Women Empowered Committee;
• Jenna Kahl of Chandler-Gilbert Community College; chair of the Foundation’s Gilbert Leadership Steering Committee;
• Rob Elder of Wallick & Volk, Inc.; chair of the Foundation’s Veterans Business Council;
• Mark Bergerson of the Arizona Group; chair of the Foundation’s Business & Education Committee.

Staples also recognized outgoing members of the Chamber’s Board of Directors — Julie Graham of Dignity Health and Jän Simon of Foundation Insurance Services.

She then turned the program over to incoming Board of Directors Chairman Matt Harrison of Deloitte. Harrison recognized Staples for her service as chairwoman and presented her with a plaque commemorating her leadership.

Harrison presented the 2024 Annual Business Awards. Recipients were:

• Gilbert Fire and Rescue Chief Rob Duggan received the Gilbert Leadership Alumni Award, which is presented to program graduates who represent the highest level of dedication to the program’s values and to the community.
• Rob Elder of Wallick & Volk, Inc. and Christie Boutain of Meadows Bank each received Volunteer of the Year awards. This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, commitment, and enthusiasm in their volunteer efforts with the Chamber and Foundation throughout the year.
• James DeVary of Senior Helpers of Gilbert & Chandler received the Emerging Business Leader of the Year Award. This award celebrates innovators and visionaries with outstanding strategic thinking, effective decision-making, and a commitment to driving positive change within their organization. The recipient is a rising star poised to make a lasting impact not only on their industry but also on their community.
• Andi Ott of Dog Haus Biergarten received the Business Leader of the Year Award. This award honors an individual representing a business who is a visionary within their field and has, through their business initiatives and accomplishments, made a significant impact on their organization, industry, or community. Outside of their organization, nominees exhibit a strong commitment to the Gilbert community through philanthropy, partnerships with non-profit organizations, or environmental sustainability initiatives.
• Amplify Voices received the Non-Profit of the Year Award, accepted by director Deb Shapiro. This award honors an outstanding chamber member (501(c)(3)) organization that has made significant contributions to the community through its dedication to service, impact, and philanthropy. It recognizes a non-profit with exceptional effectiveness in addressing social, environmental, or community issues.
• Pettitt Wealth received the Emerging Business of the Year Award, accepted by owner Eric Pettitt. This award honors a business that has shown remarkable growth, innovation, and impact in its industry within a relatively short period of operation. The business embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship through innovative products, services, or processes.
• Garage-East received the Business of the Year Award, accepted by owner Brian Ruffentine. This award honors notable success and significant contributions to its community and shows dedication to corporate social responsibility. It celebrates the business's overall excellence and positive influence in driving growth, fostering innovation, and making a lasting, positive impact on both its industry and the broader community.
• Nothing Bundt Cakes received the Impact Award, accepted by owner Jan Newton. This award honors a business that exemplifies best practices in corporate social responsibility and community engagement.

Sarah Watts, president and CEO of the Gilbert Chamber, presented the President’s Award  in recognition of the former president of Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Dr. Greg Peterson, accepted by Jenna Kahl.

“We have all been fortunate to work alongside Dr. Peterson these past six years, and although he will be dearly missed, I know our community is forever better because of his contributions,” Watts said. “His collaborative approach has strengthened partnerships with local businesses and organizations, enhancing the college's role as a vital contributor to the region's economic and social vitality. I could not let the opportunity pass to recognize a true innovator in our community.”