The Crawfordsville/Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce celebrated local educators, businesses, organizations and community members Sept. 10, during its annual awards banquet at Stone Creek Lodge, with Super Bowl XLI champion and former Indianapolis Colts defensive captain Gary Brackett serving as the evening’s guest speaker.
The banquet recognized individuals and organizations for their contributions to Montgomery County and its business community, with awards honoring education, nonprofit service, customer service, agriculture, innovation, first responder service, individual achievement and Chamber involvement.
Brackett, who spent nine seasons with the Indianapolis Colts and was a team captain for five consecutive seasons, spoke about leadership, resilience, entrepreneurship and building strong cultures. Following his NFL career, Brackett earned an MBA from George Washington University and built the Brackett Restaurant Group. He also founded the Gary Brackett Impact Foundation in 2007 to support low-income, critically and chronically ill children and at-risk youth.
The Chamber presented its Inspirational Educator Award to Rachel O’Neal of Crawfordsville Community School Corporation, Suzie Gephart of North Montgomery Community School Corp. and Matt Couch of Southmont Schools.
The award recognizes educators who go above and beyond to motivate, inspire and engage students through positive learning environments, innovative teaching strategies and a commitment to student success.
Recovery Coalition Inc. received the Nonprofit Excellence Award, recognizing a nonprofit organization for outstanding service, innovation and community engagement, as well as contributions to the well-being of individuals and families.
Busse’s Excavating received the Five Star Award, which recognizes a business that demonstrates exceptional customer service and builds lasting relationships within the community. The award highlights reliability, responsiveness and a commitment to making customers feel valued.
The Agricultural Excellence Award went to Campbell Ag Service LLC. The award recognizes leadership and achievement in the agribusiness sector, including agriculture, livestock and forestry, with an emphasis on innovation, industry advocacy, community outreach and exceptional service.
Campbell Ag Service was recognized for developing a reputation for customer service and strong relationships in the agricultural community. Under owner Bob Campbell’s leadership, the business has continued to grow, including an investment to expand the company and better serve its customers and the agricultural community. Campbell Ag Service also supports local organizations, causes and events.
Skylar Stevenson received the Trailblazer Award, which recognizes a business leading through innovation, creativity and forward-thinking. Stevenson’s was recognized for continuing to expand under Stevenson’s leadership, including the development of Simpler Times, Stevenson’s Furniture & Mattress Co. and investments in other Montgomery County businesses.
The “You Rock!” Award was presented to Leslie Pyle of Morrison Realty Keller Williams. The award recognizes an individual making an impact in the workplace and community through a positive attitude, drive and dedication.
Pyle was recognized for her work as a local real estate agent, involvement with the Chamber, event sponsorships and support of local organizations and causes.
CJ Mullett of the Crawfordsville Fire Department received the First Responder Award, recognizing a first responder who goes above and beyond in service to Montgomery County.
Mullett, battalion chief of C Shift for the Crawfordsville Fire Department, was recognized for his service to the community, leadership, mentorship and commitment to helping others.
The Chamber Award of Distinction, selected by the Chamber’s board of directors, went to Ruoff Mortgage-Crawfordsville. The award recognizes a member whose participation, engagement, promotion and support strengthen the Chamber.
Ruoff Mortgage was recognized for its consistent participation in Chamber events, event sponsorships, social media engagement, support of the Chamber’s Christmas Auction and willingness to assist with Chamber activities.
