• Searcy Regional Chamber Annual Awards Banquet Celebrates Excellence

  • Chamber

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

     
    Searcy Regional Chamber Annual Awards Banquet Celebrates Excellence
     
     
    SEARCY, Ark (Nov 20, 2024) - The Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted a packed house for its Annual Awards Banquet, emceed by State Representative Les Eaves. It was an unforgettable evening where, with the help of the White County Historical Society and Think Idea Studio, the Chamber honored the success stories that have shaped our vibrant community by airing a specially produced video. 

    The evening began with a lively round of Searcy Trivia led by Shelly Churchwell, President of the Historical Society. Team Howell Realty, Amy, Dr. Burks & Kristi took home the first-ever Searcy Trivia Titans Award, with the trophy uniquely crafted by ASU-Beebe student Kylan Elliot using advanced 3D printing techniques.

    The highlight of the night was the presentation of the 2024 Business Awards, recognizing leaders and organizations that exemplify excellence in their fields and their dedication to the Searcy community:
    • Business of the Year: Chick-fil-A, Matthew Harbin
      Mathew Harbin was honored for his commitment to professional excellence and community engagement. Through initiatives like       Shared Table—which has donated over 76,000 meals—and the Chick-fil-A Leader Academy, Harbin and his team have positively impacted Searcy by fostering leadership, providing mentorship, and addressing food insecurity.
    • Community Champion: Liz Howell, Howell Realty
      Liz Howell’s extensive contributions to community enhancement, including her work with Harding University, Downtown Revitalization, and the Holiday of Lights, embody the essence of this award. Her leadership during the       Small Business Revolution put Searcy on the map as a city brimming with potential and community spirit.
    • Volunteer of the Year: Philip Hays, First Community Bank
      Philip Hays, a long-standing advocate for the Chamber, has demonstrated tireless dedication as Chair of the Chamber’s Chairman’s Memorial Golf Tournament for nine years and as the 2023 Chairman of the Board. His leadership and enthusiasm have been instrumental in advancing the Chamber’s mission.
    • Non-Profit of the Year: Habitat for Humanity
      Selected for their efforts he conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.
    • Leadership Award: Drew Vest, First Security Bank
      Selected by his peers in the 2024 Leadership Searcy class, Drew Vest was recognized for his exceptional leadership abilities and inspirational contributions to the program and the community.
    “We are thrilled to highlight the accomplishments of our businesses and leaders,” said Tara Cathey, Chamber President & CEO. “They give back to the community in countless ways, and we are proud to tell their stories and honor their impact.”

    The evening ended with Casey Cullipher presenting a crystal gavel to Ed Covington in recognition of his service. "It has been an incredible honor to serve as Chairman of the Board this past year, working alongside such dedicated individuals to strengthen our community. Like Pyeatt and Yancey, who recruited the first industry, I believe service is about giving back for the greater good of the community, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the success of the Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce,” said Covington.

    A heartfelt thank you to our Platinum Sponsors: Unity Health, Sonic, RiverWind Bank, Forward Searcy Inc., First Security Bank, and Charlie’s Auto Paint & Body. Your unwavering support is instrumental in making events like this a success.

    We also deeply appreciate our Gold Sponsors: AT&T, Bryce Corporation, Centennial Bank, First Community Bank, Harding University, Les Eaves State Representative, and Stanley Pharmacy.

    Our gratitude extends to the Awards Banquet Award Sponsors, including Bobby T's Furniture, Carti, Edward Jones, Entergy of Arkansas, Merchant & Planters Bank, and Salt Engineers, for their commitment to recognizing excellence in our community.

    A special thanks to our Awards Banquet Dessert Sponsors: Edward Jones, Howell Realty, Pro Land Title, Southern Bank, and White County Cable TV/Cablelynx Broadband, for adding a sweet touch to the evening.

    We are especially thankful to Will Walker and Shelly Churchwell with the White County Historical Society and Think Idea Studio for their incredible work on the historical video, trivia, and storytelling elements.

    Our appreciation goes out to the Chamber’s Banquet Committee members, ASU-Beebe Searcy campus for the Trivia Titans trophy, Mayor Mat Faulkner, Representative Les Eaves for emceeing and New Life Church for graciously hosting us in their beautiful facility.

    To everyone who contributed their time, talent, and resources—thank you for making this event a celebration to remember!

    For more information about the Banquet, contact the Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce at (501) 268-2458 or tcathey@searcychamber.com.
     

    Searcy Regional Chamber Annual Awards Banquet Celebrates Excellence

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