Local names recognized as winners at Excellence Awards Luncheon

WNKY Staff,

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated its annual Excellence Awards Luncheon today where they recognized this year’s recipients of the ATHENA, ATHENA Young Professional, Minority and/or Woman Owned Business, Nonprofit of the Year, and Small Business Person of the Year awards.

This year’s program was emceed by Doug and Michelle Gorman, both past Excellence Awards recipients. Award recipients included:

  • 2024 ATHENA, Melinda Hill, CASA of South Central KY.
  • 2024 Small Business Person of the Year, Spence Sheldon, Donatos Pizza.
  • 2024 ATHENA Young Professional, Maegan Hance, Triple Crown Auto Glass SOKY.
  • 2024 Minority and/or Woman Owned Business of the Year, Be Happy Yoga and Salt Cave.
  • 2024 Nonprofit of the Year, The Salvation Army of Bowling Green.

“It’s a privilege to have such outstanding individuals in this community. Their dedication and willingness to serve others exemplifies our community’s spirit and drive,” said chamber president and CEO Ron Bunch. “This event honors these remarkable people and shows our appreciation for their dedication and contributions to the region.”

“Pinnacle is proud to support the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce in recognizing and celebrating excellence in our community,” said Rick Seadler, regional president, Pinnacle Financial Partners. “Events like this highlight the remarkable achievements and contributions of businesses and individuals, showcasing the vibrant spirit and innovation that make our region thrive.”

2024 ATHENA

Sponsored by Martin Dodge Jeep Chrysler RAM.

The ATHENA Award was created by a female board member of a Michigan Chamber in the 1980s and has grown to receive global recognition. The late Cornelius Martin of Martin Management Group first brought this award to Bowling Green in 1985 as a salute to women in business. The Martin family continues to support his legacy with this award. This award recognizes individuals who excel in their professions, give back to their communities, and help raise other leaders, especially women. The 2024 ATHENA Award was presented to Melinda Hill, CASA of South Central KY.

2024 Small Business Person of the Year

Sponsored by German American Bank.

This award was introduced in 1985, recognizes outstanding entrepreneurs who are the foundation of the local economy. Individuals who receive this award have made great contributions to both the community and the Chamber. The 2024 Small Business Person of the Year award was presented to Spence Sheldon, owner of Donatos Pizza.

2024 ATHENA Young Professional

Sponsored by Martin Dodge Jeep Chrysler RAM.

This award is presented to an area young woman who has emerged as a leader, demonstrates excellence, and provides valuable service to her business, profession, and community. This person exhibits initiative and creativity, exemplifies and upholds the goals of the professional woman, and serves as a role model for young women personally and professionally. The 2024 ATHENA Young Professional Award was presented to Maegan Hance, Triple Crown Auto Glass SOKY.

2024 Nonprofit of the Year

Sponsored by English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP.

This award is presented to a local nonprofit that provides support and guidance through its services to its customers/clients, partnership and collaboration with other local organizations, and overall community impact. The 2024 Nonprofit of the Year Award was presented to The Salvation Army of Bowling Green.

2024 Minority and/or Woman Owned Business of the Year

Sponsored by Gerald Printing.

This award is presented to a business that is 51% minority and/or woman owned and represents business growth and diversity. This award recognizes the enterprising entrepreneurs who fuel the local economy through their innovations, making a significant impact on their clients, profession, and community. The 2024 Minority and/or Woman Owned Business of the Year was presented to Be Happy Yoga & Salt Cave.

The Chamber extends a special thanks to Pinnacle Financial Partners for its generous title sponsorship and to the additional award and event sponsors:

  • ATHENA and ATHENA Young Professional Sponsor: Martin Dodge Jeep Chrysler RAM
  • Small Business Person of the Year Sponsor: German American Bank
  • Minority and/or Woman Owned Business of the Year: Gerald Printing
  • Nonprofit of the Year: English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP
  • Gold Level Sponsors: Arnold Consulting Engineering Services, Inc., CROWN Cork & Seal, Stewart-Richey Construction
  • Silver Level Sponsors: Bowling Green Municipal Utilities, Houchens Insurance Group, US Bank
  • Bronze Level Sponsors: Haycraft Wealth Management, TriStar Greenview Regional Hospital
  • Video Sponsor: WNKY News 40

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