The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce hosted its 18th Annual Banquet and Business Showcase, Elevate, on Thursday, February 2 at the Columbia County Exhibition Center.
With a sellout crowd, including local, state and federal business leaders, the event celebrated and saluted the Chamber’s accomplishments of 2022, with a look ahead to a prosperous 2023.
The evening kicked off with the business showcase and reception. The showcase provided attendees the opportunity to mix and mingle amongst themselves and network with nearly 20 local vendors.
Chamber President/CEO Russell Lahodny opened the dinner program with a welcome and highlighted the successes of the Chamber in 2022 and the prospects for a brighter future. Jordan Pierce with First Community Bank and Vice President, Sabrina Griffin, presented the awards for Ambassador of the Year and Volunteer of the Year, respectively, to LeeAnn Rhoden, Blanchard & Calhoun Real Estate; and Doressa Hawes, Golden Harvest Food Bank.
A highlight of the evening was the ceremonial passing of the gavel of leadership from outgoing Chair Jordan Pierce with First Community Bank to 2023 Chair Wendy Perry of KATALIS. In her remarks, Perry expressed her appreciation to the Board for the confidence shown in him and relayed her goals and aspirations for the upcoming year.
During the program, the Chamber presented several prestigious awards including the Lifetime Achievement Award. Given annually since 2005, the Lifetime Achievement Award seeks to honor one leader of our community for his or her professional and philanthropic achievements. This year’s award winner, Yvonee Meeks, SRP Federal Credit Union, was recognized for her devotion to service and giving back to the community that she loves.
Additionally, the Chamber named Ignite Accounting and Business Advisors (formerly Couch Consulting) the Small Business of the Year and Augusta Technical College as Large Business of the Year. The Leadership Columbia County Alumni Award went to Adam Williams, The Cleveland Group CPAs.
Mike Goodwin, the Bowtie Comedian, closed out the evening by merging leadership and laughter. His refreshingly, clean comedy act made you leave feeling better than the way you came.
The 18th Annual Banquet and Business Showcase was presented by SouthState. Premier Sponsor Savannah River Nuclear Solutions and Executive Sponsors included: Allegra Image 360, AT&T, Battelle Savannah River Alliance, The Cleveland Group CPAs, Doctors Hospital of Augusta and Georgia Power Company. Additional Sponsors included Lifetime Achievement Award Sponsor, Southeast Restoration; Non-Profit Member of the Year Sponsor, ADP; Volunteer of the Year Award Sponsor, First Community Bank; and Speaker Sponsor, C&C Automotive.
 
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