The Columbia Chamber is proud to present the Workforce Development Award to a Chamber Partner that excels in implementing innovative strategies for retaining a dynamic, resilient, and highly skilled workforce. This award also recognizes efforts in fostering an inclusive workplace environment that meets the current needs of the greater Midlands region.
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Nominations are now open!
The Hospitality Industry Award recognizes an exceptional Chamber Partner in the hospitality industry. This prestigious award acknowledges a wide range of hospitality businesses ranging from restaurants and tourist attractions, to transportation companies, hotels, and event facilities. The selected company is recognized for significant contributions in making Columbia a world-class place to live, work, and play, setting a standard of excellence by demonstrating a strong commitment to enhancing the city’s reputation and driving its growth as a top-tier destination. This award will be presented during a monthly Partner Engagement event.
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The Golden Nail Awards recognize outstanding contributions made by business or property owners to enhance the physical character of the greater Midlands region through cosmetic or commercial efforts in the previous calendar year. These prestigious awards will be presented during a monthly Partner Engagement event. The Golden Nail Award Sponsorship package also includes a Partner Engagement Presenting Sponsorship.
The Cathy Novinger Trailblazer Award is a prestigious honor bestowed upon an exceptional female leader who exemplifies the remarkable spirit and unwavering determination of Cathy Novinger, a trailblazing businesswoman and passionate advocate for progress in Columbia, South Carolina. This award recognizes outstanding achievements, exceptional leadership, and significant contributions made by women in both business and civic life, standing as a powerful testament to Cathy Novinger's enduring legacy. The honoree will be recognized at the Power in Heels Women’s event.
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The Small Business of the Year Award honors a Chamber Partner with less than 50 employees who has demonstrated notable achievements, economic and cultural growth, and outstanding contributions to the Midlands business community.
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The Columbia Chamber is proud to present the Glenn Jacobus Award, named in honor of the late Glenn Jacobus, to a member of the Leadership Columbia class. The honoree is selected by their peers for consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities. This award celebrates those who embody Glenn Jacobus’s commitment to transformative leadership and his dedication to fostering positive community change. The honoree will be recognized at Leadership Columbia's Graduation.
The Columbia Chamber is honored to present the Ambassador of the Year Award to an individual who exemplifies outstanding business ethics and plays a key role in positively promoting and preserving the Greater Columbia area. This award recognizes a leader who serves as a role model for business involvement in the community and significantly contributes to enhancing the image of the local community. The honoree will be recognized at the Chamber’s Annual Gala.
The Columbia Chamber is proud to present the Diplomat of the Year Award to a distinguished Diplomat who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in representing the Chamber. Diplomats are a group of knowledgeable volunteers who actively connect with partners, attend events, and assist at various functions to promote the Chamber’s mission. This award honors the Diplomat who has accrued the most points for outstanding service and contributions throughout the year. The honoree will be recognized at the Chamber’s Annual Gala.
The Columbia Chamber is proud to present the Teacher of the Quarter Award, sponsored by Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union, recognizing outstanding educators from Richland One and Richland Two school districts. This quarterly award honors teachers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their students, innovative teaching methods, and a commitment to community involvement, which directly supports the development of a well-prepared future workforce.
Each chosen Teacher of the Quarter will receive $500 from Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union.