Submitted
The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the 2025 Annual Chamber Awards Banquet, a significant milestone as the event celebrates its 40th year of honoring the achievements and contributions of local businesses, leaders, and community members.
The event will take place on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the FHSU Memorial Union, 600 Park Street.
The evening will kick off with a social hour in the Black & Gold Room from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner service at 6:30 p.m.The awards program will begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. in the Ballroom, where attendees will celebrate the accomplishments of the 2024 nominees and award recipients.
In celebration of this historic 40th anniversary, The Chamber encourages community members to participate by submitting award nominations.
“The Annual Chamber Awards Banquet is a long-standing tradition in our community, and we are excited to see who will be recognized in this milestone year,” said Sarah Wasinger, President/CEO of The Chamber in Hays. “We invite everyone to take this opportunity to highlight those who have made a lasting impact in our region.”
This year’s awards include:
- City of Hays Small Business Achievement Award
- Commerce Bank Helping Hands Award
- Golden Belt Bank Hall of Fame Award
- Grow Hays Robert E. Schmidt Entrepreneur of the Year Award
- Nex-Tech Citizen of the Year Award
- Nex-Tech Wireless Businesswoman of the Year Award
- Vyve Broadband Rising Star Award
- Werth Wealth Management Member Investor of the Year Award
Community members are encouraged to submit their nominations using the online form at https://form.jotform.com/242746141210142 before the deadline on Nov. 4.
These awards aim to recognize individuals and businesses significantly contributing to the community through leadership, innovation, and service.
In addition to celebrating the 40th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet, the event offers attendees the chance to connect with local leaders, business owners, and fellow community members.
Tickets are available for $60 each and can be purchased by contacting The Chamber at (785) 628-8201. Reserved seating is available for tickets purchased January 13, 2025.
Wasinger said the Chamber extends special thanks to the FHSU Office of the President for serving as the Venue Sponsor, providing a welcoming space for this important community celebration.
The Chamber is looking forward to another memorable evening that reflects the dedication and achievements of those who contribute to the vitality and growth of Hays and Ellis County and celebrates the accomplishments of chamber membership.
“The success of our local businesses and community members makes Ellis County such a vibrant place to live and work,” Wasinger said. “We look forward to celebrating their stories and accomplishments during the 2025 Annual Chamber Awards Banquet.”For more information about the event, including sponsorship opportunities, contact The Chamber staff by calling (785) 628-8201.