The Columbia Chamber is pleased to announce the award recipients for the 119th Annual Gala, presented by BlueCross® BlueShield® of South Carolina. On Thursday, October 6, 2022, the Columbia Chamber will hold its award ceremony at Junction 800, in the Vista District. Previously a seated affair, this year's gala comes with a new format and will feature a fast-paced evening celebrating the successes of the past year, recognizing the leadership of the Board of Directors and looking ahead to the upcoming year.

"We are excited to showcase and celebrate those that go above and beyond to better our city," says Carl Blackstone, Columbia Chamber President and CEO. "This year's honorees are dedicated members of our community and are incredible representatives of transformative leadership."

2022 Honorees:

Young Professional of the Year: Lindsey Spires Griffin, Bank of America
Award sponsored by Truist

Public Servant of the Year: Chief William "Skip" Holbrook, City of Columbia
Award sponsored by Elliott Davis, LLC

Diplomat of the Year: Leanna Lee, Graduate Columbia
Award sponsored by Willoughby & Hoefer, P.A.

Military Advocate of the Year: Lamont Christian, Big Red Barn Retreat
Award sponsored by Dominion Energy

Ambassador of the Year: David Pankau, BlueCross® BlueShield® of South Carolina
Award sponsored by Colonial Life

Tickets are available for purchase at www.ColumbiaChamber.com. For more information about the Gala, please contact Ashleigh Conner at 803.733.1138.

About the Columbia Chamber

The Columbia Chamber is a private, non-profit, Partner-driven organization comprised of 1,200 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals in Calhoun, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lexington, Newberry and Richland counties. The Columbia Chamber serves as the voice of its Partners and the business community at large on matters of economic, educational, social, cultural and political concern, as well as supports and promotes the success of its partners through networking, professional development, advocacy and leadership. The organization has represented the interests of the local business community since 1902.

To become a Partner or to learn more about the Columbia Chamber, as well as its events, programs and initiatives, visit www.ColumbiaChamber.com.