Winners announced at Excellence Awards Luncheon
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated its annual Excellence Awards Luncheon today, honoring 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:
- 2025 ATHENA: Penny Bowles, Bowling Green Police Department
- 2025 Small Business Person of the Year: Justin Gearlds, RENEW by Optimum Rejuvenation
- 2025 ATHENA Young Professional: Jessica Carver, College Heights Foundation
- 2025 Minority and/or Woman Owned Business of the Year: TimeSavers Caregiving & Concierge
- 2025 Nonprofit of the Year: Kentucky Kids on the Block
“Our community thrives because of bold leaders and visionary businesses that turn challenges into opportunities,” said Ron Bunch, President and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. “These award winners embody the spirit of progress and possibility, and we’re proud to celebrate the incredible impact they’re making across our region.”
“Pinnacle is proud to support the Chamber in celebrating the remarkable individuals and organizations that rise to meet the moment,” said Rick Seadler, Regional President of Pinnacle Financial Partners. “Their accomplishments are not just a sign of success—they’re a testament to the grit, adaptability, and forward-thinking spirit that keep our region strong, even in challenging times.”
2025 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 2025 ATHENA Award was presented to Penny Bowles, Bowling Green Police Department.
2025 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 2025 Small Business Person of the Year award was presented to Justin Gearlds, RENEW by Optimum Rejuvenation.
2025 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 2025 ATHENA Young Professional Award was presented to Jessica Carver, College Heights Foundation.
2025 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 2025 Minority and/or Woman Owned Business of the Year was presented to TimeSavers Caregiving & Concierge.
2025 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 2025 Nonprofit of the Year Award was presented to Kentucky Kids on the Block.
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, Murphy
- Construction Group, Service One Credit Union
- Silver Level Sponsors: Banterra Bank, Bowling Green Municipal Utilities, Houchens Insurance Group, US Bank
- Bronze Level Sponsor: Haycraft Wealth Management of Raymond James
- Photobooth Sponsor: Event Kode
- Video Sponsor: WNKY News 40
- Camera Spotlight Sponsor: LifeWorks WKU
