Business leaders and community members gathered at the Dean & Barbara White Community Center on Thursday, March 7, for the Crossroads Chamber's highly anticipated Annual Business Excellence Awards Ceremony. This event - now in its fourth year -recognized outstanding achievements in business, nonprofit work, and individual contributions that significantly impact the Northwest Indiana region.
The nine distinct awards presented at the ceremony highlighted diverse accomplishments and contributions across various categories, ranging from remarkable sales growth to philanthropic endeavors that have positively shaped Northwest Indiana.
The winners were celebrated for their contributions to the community and each award reflected a specific aspect of business excellence. Local elected officials such as Town Council President Rick Bella of Merrillville and Mayor Pete Land of Crown Point introduced the award winners as follows:
- Rising Star - Linda Rosas, Town of Merrillville
- Young Entrepreneur - Jacob Kiefer, This is Jacobs Rugs
- Minority Business - Sons of David
- Volunteer of the Year - Ryan Peterson, Chicago Title Northwest Indiana
- Legacy - The Pangere Corporation
- Corporate Responsibility - Purdue Federal Credit Union
- Non-profit - The MAAC Foundation
- Business Success - Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service
- Business Leader - John Jordan, owner of CertaPro Painters of Northwest Indiana
This year the chamber introduced the Rising Star Award. Unlike awards typically reserved for business owners, directors, or other leaders, this distinction is specifically tailored for outstanding employees.
Deann Patena, President and CEO of the chamber, told Great News Life, "It’s meant for up and comers in their organizations or companies. We’re really excited about it because it offers another perspective. You don’t have to be a top-level leader to be recognized and make an impact."
The Crossroads Chamber extends its sincere congratulations to all the winners and expresses gratitude to the community for its continuous support. The Annual Business Excellence Awards Ceremony serves as a testament to the region's vibrant business community and its unwavering dedication to excellence and community betterment.
