65th Annual Meeting & Awards Dinner
Mark your calendars for Thursday, January 22, 2026, as we come together for the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce 65th Annual Meeting & Awards Dinner. This signature event celebrates the achievements, leadership, and community from 2025. and this year we will lean into the nostalgia of our first annual meeting held in 1960. Throughout the evening, we will proudly present the Excellence in Business Awards, recognizing outstanding businesses, rising leaders, dedicated educators, public servants, and longtime community champions. Links are below for tickets, sponsorships, and nominations.
We are now accepting nominations for all award categories, including Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Young Professional of the Year, Educator of the Year, Public Service Champion, Business-Education Partnership, Legacy in Business, Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award, the Valor Award, Volunteer of the Year, and the prestigious Citizen of the Year. Help us honor the individuals and organizations shaping our region—submit your nominations today and shine a spotlight on those who make Surry County a better place to live, work, and grow.
Event Sponsorship Opportunities
The Andy & Ellie Society (Presenting Sponsor) $2,000 One Available
- Top billing across all event materials, signage, and promotions.
- Exclusive naming rights and “Presented By” recognition
- Speaking opportunity during the event
- Premium logo placement on event signage, digital promotions, and table signage
- Reserved VIP seating and tickets (12 guests)
- Social media spotlight and press release mention
Honoring The Andy Griffith Show premiere in 1960. A nod to our Mayberry roots and thriving tourist industry.
The Twist Tier $1,000 Two Available
- Logo on event signage and materials
- Recognition in email campaigns and social media
- Reserved seating and tickets (6 guests)
- Social media spotlight
The TV Tray Circle $500 Four Available
- Logo on event signage and materials
- Reserved seating and tickets (4 guests)
- Recognition on social media and event program
The TV Tray Circle $500 Four Available
- Logo on event signage and materials
- Reserved seating and tickets (4 guests)
- Recognition on social media and event program
The Highball Host $500 (Bar Sponsor) One Available
- Logo at the bar
- Reserved seating and tickets (4 guests)
- Recognition on social media and event program
Award Sponsorship Opportunities
Small Business of the Year
Celebrating Excellence Among Small Enterprises (24 or fewer employees)
Recognizes a small business that demonstrates exceptional innovation, outstanding service, and deep community engagement. Honorees are known for entrepreneurial spirit, integrity, and contributions to a vibrant local economy.
2024 Small Business of the Year: Rub and Grub Mexicue
Large Business of the Year
Honoring Leadership in Business Growth and Impact (25+ employees)
Awarded to a business that exemplifies corporate responsibility, strong employee culture, and visionary leadership. The winner plays a key role in driving economic success and community development in Surry County.
2024 Large Business of the Year: Chatham Nursing & Rehabilitation
Outstanding Public Service Award
Celebrating ExcellenceFor Exceptional Commitment to Public Good
Awarded to an individual in the public sector whose leadership, service, or advocacy has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in our region.
2024 Outstanding Public Service Award: Michael Frazier
Young Professional of the Year
Spotlighting Rising Leaders Under 45
Celebrates a young professional demonstrating exceptional leadership, community engagement, and a passion for shaping the future of Surry County. This individual is paving the way for a new generation of civic-minded business leaders.
2024 Young Professional of the Year: Blake Moyer
Legacy in Business Award
Celebrating Enduring Excellence and Community Impact
Recognizes a business with 20+ years of continuous operation that has remained a cornerstone of the local economy through ethical leadership, community service, and long-standing excellence.
2024 Business Longevity Award: Northside Mortgage Group
Ambassador of the Year (SOLD)
Presented to one outstanding Chamber Ambassador whose dedication, engagement, and leadership have made a meaningful impact on our organization. This award honors an individual who consistently goes above and beyond—welcoming members, supporting events, strengthening connections, and representing the Chamber with enthusiasm throughout the year.
2024 Ambassador of the Year Award: Kasey Martin
Educator of the Year
Honoring Excellence in Teaching and Leadership
Recognizes an educator or administrator whose commitment to student success and innovation in education has created a lasting impact on their school and the broader community.
2024 Educator of the Year Award: Levi Goins
Business & Education Partner of the Year
Building Bridges Between Classrooms and Careers
Honors a business that has built meaningful, sustained partnerships with local schools to support students through mentorship, programs, funding, or real-world learning experiences.
2024 Business & Education Partner of the Year: Altec Inc.
Excellence in Tourism Award (SOLD)
Presented to a business or organization that has made a significant impact on tourism in our region. This award honors those who elevate visitor experiences, promote the unique charm of our community, and contribute to the growth of our local economy through innovative, welcoming, and memorable offerings.
2024 Excellence in Tourism Award: Good Time Trolley
Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award (SOLD)
Powered by Purpose, Fueled by Service
Honors a nonprofit organization that leads with compassion and creates transformative change in the lives of others through impactful programs and volunteerism.
2024 Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award: Seven Rivers District, Old Hickory Council
Valor Award
Honoring Courage in Action
This award pays tribute to first responders, law enforcement, or fire personnel who exemplify bravery, selflessness, and service to the community. Acknowledges extraordinary dedication and acts of heroism.
2024 Valor Award: K-9 Officer Draco & Corporal Emily Hutchens
Citizen of the Year (SOLD)
The Citizen of the Year Award recognizes an individual — not a business or organization — whose enduring commitment, leadership, and service have made Surry County a better place to live, work, and thrive.
2024 Citizen of the Year Award: Dr. Steve Yokeley