Shelby County Chamber of Commerce award winners announced for November Gala

The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce announced the award recipients for the 2026 Chamber Awards Gala “Rooted in Gratitude.”

The 2026 award recipients include:
“Dick Kitchin” Chamber Service Award: Kent McNeely
Shelby County Community Lifetime Achievement: Jerry Bennett
John A. Hartnett, Sr. Business Person: Bill Poland - Genesis Property Development
Face of Shelby County (Customer Service): Karen Smith - Capone’s Downtown Speakeasy
Golden Apple Outstanding Educator: Nicole Terrell - Coulston Elementary School
Outstanding Citizen: Joanna Yeend
Beau Browning Maverick Award (Under 40): LaTisha Idlewine
Pay It Forward Award: Laura Land
Rising Star Award: Emma Claxton
Business of the Year - State Farm: Beth Prince
Non-Profit Champion: Morristown Matters

The Chamber is honored to celebrate the businesses, leaders, volunteers and organizations whose dedication, leadership and service strengthen our community and help Shelby County thrive. Every thriving community is built by people who choose to lead, serve, and make a difference. 

“We are honored each year to celebrate the businesses, organizations and individuals who make such a meaningful impact throughout Shelby County,” said Chamber Executive Director Courtney Chapella. “This year, we’re excited to refresh the way we recognize our Business and Non-Profit award recipients by selecting one honoree in each category and moving away from the traditional finalist videos. Instead, our focus will be on giving these recipients meaningful recognition and promotion throughout the year, allowing us to share their stories and impact well beyond one evening at the Gala. We received an incredible response to this year’s call for nominations, which is a wonderful reminder of just how many people and organizations are doing great things in our community.”

The public can join the Chamber on November 18, at Horseshoe Indianapolis Racing & Casino for a night of celebration. Tickets are now on sale for $60 per person, $600 for a table of 10 or $750 for a table sponsorship that includes 10 tickets. Tickets are available at www.shelbychamber.net or by calling the Chamber at (317) 398-6647.