Annual Awards Dinner 2026

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the best of Sandusky County at our Annual Awards Dinner, presented by Whirlpool Corporation. From long-standing community leaders to rising businesses and organizations making an impact today, this is the night we come together to recognize those who lead, serve, and inspire.

How Winners Are Selected

All nominees are submitted through an open community nomination process. Each nominee completes a detailed candidate profile, which is then reviewed by an independent panel of chamber professionals from across the country.  This ensures a fair, unbiased selection process based solely on the information provided.

People’s Choice Member of the Year

In addition to our judged awards, we’re giving the community a voice through our People's Choice Member of the Year!

Visit our Facebook page, find the contest post, and react to your favorite nominee's photo.  The nominee with the most reactions will take home the People’s Choice title.

2026 Business & Organization of the Year Nominees

Small Business of the Year (a member with 1-5 employees)
• El Dorado Taco
• Fremont Ballet School
• Ghoul Runnings Kayak Adventures & Ohio Pirate Con
• Luna Studios

Medium Business of the Year (a member with 6-49 employees)
• Chateau Winery & Vineyard
• Freedom Roofing, Windows & Siding
• Fremont Speedway
• Ole Zim’s Wagon Shed
• Roots Poultry

Large Business of the Year (a member with 50+ employees)
• Crown Battery Manufacturing
• Damschroder Roofing
• Ludlow Composites Corporation

Nonprofit of the Year (NEW in 2026)
• Heartbeat Hope Medical
• Justice for Migrant Women
• Parker’s Purpose
• Soroptimist of Fremont

2026 Individual Award Nominees

Award of Excellence
• Marisa Moya
• Tam Mettler

Distinguished Service Award
• Denice Hirt
• Joe Liszak
• Brenda Ginnever

Clark Legacy Award
• Sara Shoemaker
• Jeanette Eidenour
• Holly Stacy

Citizen of the Year
• Bob Gross
• Chevella Gomez
• Christina Keller
• Marisa Moya

Join us for this special night that celebrates the businesses, organizations, and individuals shaping our community.