Written by: Sarah Spoonholtz
Southwest Michigan’s business community showed up in full force for the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber’s Business Recognition Breakfast with over 600 of our local business leaders in attendance. Presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Corewell Health, and Honor Credit Union, the event celebrated the achievements and growth of the region’s business community.
The morning’s highlight was a return keynote from Drew Dudley, an internationally acclaimed TED Talk speaker and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Drew’s inspiring and insightful message set the tone for a day focused on leadership and recognition. Arthur Havlicek, the President & CEO of the Regional Chamber, then took the stage to reflect on the Chamber’s accomplishments in 2024 and expressed optimism about achieving even greater impact and growth in the years to come.
The Chamber also honored the following eight businesses, organizations, and individuals with awards, celebrating their outstanding contributions and impact:
BEST NEW BUSINESS AWARD:
THE LAB. MARTIAL ARTS & FITNESS
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD:
VILLWOCKS OUTDOOR LIVING
ECONOMIC IMPACT AWARD:
HONOR CREDIT UNION
NON-PROFIT EXCELLENCE AWARD:
HARBOR COUNTRY MISSION
COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD:
BERRIEN COUNTY: SILVER BEACH PARK PLAYGROUND PROJECT
RISING STAR AWARD:
SARAH LANCASTER, SOUTH SHORE HEALTH & RACQUET CLUB
THE PAT MOODY AWARD:
MICHELLE HEIT, NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR
AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR:
LEANNE BROWNFIELD, STURGIS BANK & TRUST
We also welcomed our new board Chair, Olivia Schaul, and Vice Chair, Greta Pearson-Barrons with a ceremonial passing of the gavel.
As the Chamber continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact, the energy and collaboration at this year’s annual meeting made one thing clear: the future of Southwest Michigan’s business community is brighter than ever.
ActionLine is made in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
