What an incredible evening it was at the Abilene Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Annual Membership Meeting and Awards Celebration on the night of September 18th! The event was a true testament to the strength and unity of our community, bringing together local leaders, business professionals, and dedicated volunteers for a night of celebration, recognition, and connection.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to all our members who attended and made the evening unforgettable. Your continued support and participation are what make our Chamber thrive. A special thank you goes out to our volunteers as well—your hard work and dedication behind the scenes ensured that the event was a seamless success, and for that, we are truly grateful. Without you, this night simply wouldn’t have been possible.
The 2025 Celebration Taskforce:
Mindi Nagy, Abilene Country Club
Kimberly Norman-Prater, Gary's Floral Gallery
Amy Carnes, American Cancer Society, Inc. - South Region
Daisy Jane Gosdin, American Cancer Society, Inc. - South Region
Adam Lancaster, Coleman County State Bank
Arlene Poteet, ACN
Shannel Anderson, Laura W. Bush Institute for Women's Health
Leigh Oxford, Samuel EPC, LLC
Sheena Teel, Zachry Associates, Inc.
Dianna D. Davis, Samuel EPC, LLC
Rani Burk, Grain Theory
Brilyn Daniels, West Texas Rehabilitation Center
Leiann Dickey, Office Depot
Christy Levo, TX Peacock Designs
Kacey Stanfield, Noah Project, Inc.
This year’s Awards Celebration highlighted individuals and organizations that have made a significant impact in our community. These honorees have gone above and beyond to contribute to the growth, development, and overall success of Abilene. Their dedication not only makes a difference but also serves as an inspiration to others. We are honored to celebrate these exceptional individuals and businesses, and they truly deserve the spotlight.
The 2025 Abilene Chamber Awards Recipients:
Outstanding Citizen of the Year – State Representative Stan Lambert
Excellence in Agriculture – Texas Farm Bureau Insurance
Redcoat of the Year – Elizabeth Gray, Abilene Teachers Federal Credit Union
Hispanic Business Council Champion – Leiann Dickey, Office Depot
Corporate Star – Jacob | Martin, LLC
Leadership Abilene Alumni – Cameron Wiley, TSTC
Military Affairs Council Award – Greg Blair, Retired
Nonprofit of the Year – Dyess We Care Team
Mark Rogers Young Professional of the Year – Travis Ruiz, Nexstar Media Group
Chair’s Award – Ted Evans, Lone Star Dry Goods
Each of these individuals and organizations represents the very best of Abilene. From agriculture to corporate leadership, nonprofit efforts to young professionals, these honorees are leading the charge in making our community a better place for all.
As we reflect on this memorable evening, we’re reminded that the spirit of Abilene is one of unity, resilience, and progress. The Chamber is proud to be part of a community that supports one another and works together to create a brighter future. We look forward to another year of growth and achievement, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for the year ahead.
Onward!