On Tuesday, Jan. 30th, the Greater Fayetteville Chamber held its 2024 Annual Awards at The Carolina Barn, sponsored by the Huff Family Office, Piedmont Natural Gas, and Fort Liberty Federal Credit Union. The event brought together esteemed professionals, community leaders, and entrepreneurs to celebrate the remarkable achievements of individual and business members that have significantly contributed to the prosperity of Fayetteville. 

With over 300 attendees from the local business community, Chambers staff are marking the event was a resounding success.

The Chamber team extends its congratulations to all the winners and expresses gratitude to the entire business community for their continued commitment to excellence. 

"This year's Annual Awards ceremony truly showcased the incredible talent and dedication within our business community," said Chamber President and CEO, Nat Robertson in a press release. "We are proud to honor these exceptional individuals and organizations that contribute to the success and vitality of Greater Fayetteville. Their accomplishments inspire us all and serve as a testament to the resilience and innovation that define our community."

In recognition of the outstanding local achievers, the Chamber is pleased to announce the 17 winners of the 2024 Annual Awards as follows:

• Excellence in Innovation Award: Public Works Commission
• Business Beautification Award: Miller’s Brew
• Best in Communication Award: Up & Coming Weekly
• Young Professional of the Year Award: Ella Wrenn, Cape Fear Regional Theatre
• Public Service Award: Johnny Wilson, Fayetteville Urban Ministry
• Outstanding Educator of the Year: Dr. Marvin Connelly, Cumberland County Schools
• Ambassador of the Year Award: Jordan Blake, 5 West Media Group
• Chairman’s Service Award: Joseph “BEAR” Dewberry, On-After Bar & Grub
• Government Relations Service Award: Henry Tyson, Tyson Commercial Real Estate
• Military Affairs Council Service Award: Greg Dudak, Mercedes of Fayetteville
• Non-Profit of the Year: Cumberland Community Foundation
• Small Business of the Year: Bubba’s 33 Restaurant
• Business of the Year: Mercedes of Fayetteville
• Realtor’s Cup: Dr. Larry Keen

Four community members were also recognized with the Chamber's George W. Breece Lifetime Achievement Award. The awards were presented by its namesake and first ever recipient, George Breece.

Those winners were: 

• John “Mac” Healy, Healy Wholesale
• Judy Dawkins, Community Supporter
• Anthony & Joanne Chavonne, CityView Media

The full descriptions of categories can be found here, respectively.