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Ruston, LA –  The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed business and community leaders to its 106th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet, an evening dedicated to recognizing individuals and organizations whose leadership and service continue to strengthen Lincoln Parish.

Presented by Right Fiber, with generous support from HGA and B1 Bank, the annual banquet served as a celebration of achievement, collaboration, and community impact. The event also highlighted the Chamber’s progress and initiatives throughout 2025, including the success of Small Business Month and the Workforce Development Grant program.

Throughout the evening, honorees were recognized for their commitment to excellence, innovation, and volunteerism. Awards were presented in partnership with Kiwanis of Ruston, the Lincoln Parish School Board, the Rotary Club of Ruston, the Junior Auxiliary of Ruston, and the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.

The 2025 award recipients included:

  • Firefighter of the Year – Chief Christopher Womack
  • Law Enforcement Officer of the Year – Officer Matthew Reed
  • Educator of the Year – Kaitlyn Mercer
  • Distinguished Partner in Education – HGA
  • Bill Best Humanitarian Award – Patricia Willis
  • Betty Robbins Volunteer of the Year – Denise Grigsby
  • Business of the Year – Ruston Animal Clinic
  • Young Business Leader of the Year – Rob Owens
  • Robert E. Russ Award – Jay Guillot

Program speakers, including Chamber President Elizabeth Turnley, Incoming Board Chairman Pastor George Lee IV, and Board Chairman Lindsey Thomlinson, reflected on the positive influence of local businesses, nonprofit leaders, and volunteers. They also reinforced the Chamber’s long-standing mission to advocate for its members, encourage collaboration, and support sustainable economic growth.

The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce expresses sincere appreciation to its sponsors, partners, volunteers, and members whose dedication and support continue to shape a vibrant and resilient business community.

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