BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
A Carbondale-based business that has demonstrated outstanding growth, exceptional customer service, and a strong commitment to the local community.
The voting process - from nomination to final vote - is open to the public.
PREVIOUS WINNERS...
2000
Planning & Mgt Consultants, Ltd.
2003
E.T. Simonds Construction Co.
2009
Venegoni Distributing
2012
The Bank of Carbondale
2018
Moreland/ Bishop McDonald's
2020
SIH Memorial Hospital
2022
Intertape Polymer Group
2024
The Neighborhood Co-op
BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR
An individual business owner, executive, or manager in the Carbondale area who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and mentorship, contributing significantly to the local business climate.
Nominated exclusively by current Chamber members. The Board of Directors reviews the submissions and selects the recipient via a blind ballot.
PREVIOUS WINNERS...
2000
John J. (Jack) Buckley
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
An individual whose selfless volunteerism, civic leadership, and personal character have left and indelible, positive mark on the Carbondale Community.
Nominations are are accepted from the both the public and Chamber members. A Legacy Selection Council, formed by all living recipients and chaired by the previous year's recipient, selects from the nominees.
PREVIOUS HONOREES...
2001
John and Nancy Jackson
2003
Neil and Mary Ellen Dillard
2007
Corene and Milton McDaniel
2010
Mort and Barbara Levine
2018
George & Diane Sheffer
REGIONAL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
A business operating in the broader Southern Illinois region that actively supports and impacts the Carbondale economy, showcasing regional collaboration and excellence.
The voting process - from nomination to final vote - is open to the public.
PREVIOUS WINNERS...
2015
17th Street Bar and Grill
2018
Samron Midwest Contracting
2020
Northbridge Professional Technologies
2021
Centerstone of Illinois
2022
Southern Illinois Airport
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL
An emerging leader (typically under 40) in the Carbondale area who demonstrates excellence, creativity, and initiative in their professional career and actively contributes to community improvement.
Nominations are are accepted from the both the public and Chamber members. A Legacy Selection Council, formed by all living recipients and chaired by the previous year's recipient, selects from the nominees.
PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS...
CHAMBER SERVICE AWARD
A Carbondale Chamber member who has gone above and beyond in their dedication, service, and support of Chamber initiatives, events, and committees over the past year.
Decided exclusively by a three-person panel consisting of the current Board President and the two immediate previous Board Presidents.
PREVIOUS WINNERS...
2024
Tena Bennett & Shane Carsrud
ART IN BUSINESS AWARD
The Art in Business Award is paused at this time.
PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS...
2021
Arnette's Barber Shop
2022
John A. Logan College
NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR
A 501(c)(3) organization that has significantly improved the quality of life for Carbondale residents through dedicated service, advocacy, or community program.
The voting process - from nomination to final vote - is open to the public.
PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS...
2022
African American Museum
2024
Little Resource Center
2025
Special Olympics Illinois Region K
