The Tucker County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the recipients for the 48th Annual Chamber Awards. The banquet will be on Thursday evening, May 21st at 5:30pm at Canaan Valley Resort Bear Paw Lodge (ski area side). Tickets are $60 each and can be reserved at the Information Center in Davis or by going to the website tuckercountychamber.org. Tickets need to be reserved by May 15th. When reserving your ticket, please let us know of any dietary restrictions.
Chamber has solicited nominations for seven different categories and few Special Awards, the secret committee has met and the results are in for the 2026 winners!
Educator of the Year: Mr. James Ambrose
Tucker County High School, Drivers Education, Virtual Coordinator and Former Basketball Coach
Mountain Hospice is the proud sponsor of this award.
A nomination said, “Mr. Ambrose has dedicated his career to serving students across Tucker County Schools, impacting thousands of young people both in the classroom and on the basketball court.”
“If this award is intended to recognize those who have devoted themselves to improving and supporting the lives of Tucker County students, I can think of no one who embodies that commitment more fully than Mr. Ambrose.”
Student of the Year: Makenna Evans
Sirianni’s Café is the proud sponsor of this award.
One nomination describes, “MaKenna as a very diligent student. She keeps her grades up and still finds time to make the world a better place.”
Another says, “MaKenna is an exceptional young woman whose hard work, dedication, resilience, leadership, and character set her apart not only as an outstanding athlete, but as a model student and community member.” “She has worked hard and achieved excellence in all activities and extracurricular activities that she has attempted and has achieved many of the highest awards.”
This nomination mentioned, “Her compassion extends far beyond organized activities. After learning about an elderly resident who had fallen while collecting water, MaKenna took initiative- assessing the situation, purchasing materials, and making improvements to ensure the area was safer for everyone. This is just one of many ways she actively works to better her community.”
Athlete of the Year: Reid Kisamore
Great Improvements is the proud sponsor of this award.
This nomination expressed, “Reid exemplifies dedication in every aspect of his life. As a multi-sport athlete participating in football, baseball, and track while also committing to offseason 7-on-7 football-he demonstrates a relentless work ethic and discipline that extends far beyond natural talent. His ability to balance these demanding athletic commitments with strong academic performance reflects outstanding time management, perseverance, and personal responsibility.”
Another describes, “…the most powerful example of Reid’s character is his resilience in the face of adversity. Following a severe ankle injury during his final football game in the playoffs, Reid underwent surgery and faced a challenging recovery. Rather than allowing this setback define him, he worked tirelessly to overcome it. His determination paid off in extraordinary fashion-not only did he surpass his previous personal best in track, but he also set a new school record in the 100-yard dash.”
One mentions, “He also took the initiative to develop and present a proposal to bring a wrestling program to his school, demonstrating not only leadership, but vision and determination to create opportunities for others. We now have a Tucker County Wrestling Team thank to him.”
Employee of the Year: Barbara Worden
Inn at Canaan is the proud sponsor of this award.
A nominee said, “Barbara is the smiling face that visitors see once they enter the CVB & Chamber office and often the one that they hear when calling the office. Every person who walks through the door is greeted with a friendly smile by Barbara as she helps them navigate their vacation itinerary.”
Another mentioned, “She is as pleasant as they come each morning begins with her smile, and each day ends with laughter. She is true team player, consistently dependable, and remarkable dedicated, never missing a day of work.”
One says, “She is patient and kind in stressful moments and always has a smile when we need it the most.”
One nomination expressed, “Barbara’s greatest asset as an employee is her reliability and dedication. She consistently works at the Visitor Center every weekend, willing embracing a non-traditional work schedule year after year.”
Public Employee of the Year, Jessica Streets
Tucker Community Foundation is the proud sponsor of this award.
One nomination says, “Jessica Streets the WVU Extension Agent for Tucker County, stands out as an exceptional advocate and community leader whose dedication to agriculture and youth development has made a lasting impact in Tucker County.”
Another said, “She’s a huge asset to our county, and goes above and beyond for the kids even if it’s on her own time!”
This nomination describes, “Jessica is also widely recognized as a strong problem solver. Whether addressing challenges in agricultural practices, educational settings, or community needs, she approaches each situation with thoughtfulness, creativity, and determination. Her ability to assess situations and find practical, effective solutions makes her a invaluable resource to those around her.”
Business Person of the Year: Julie Bland
Best of Canaan is the proud sponsor of this award.
One nomination said, “I am honored to nominate Julie Bland for the prestigious title of Business Person of the Year. Her extraordinary commitment to the Town of Davis, through her active support for events and group lunches, sets her apart as a truly deserving candidate.”
This nomination mentions, “Julie assisted us with many of our Catering Functions. It was obvious to us that she had developed a great skill in charcuterie display and all aspects of catering which has led to her opening her own business two years ago.”
Another says, “Julie’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and genuine passion of serving others.” “Operating from a dedicated kitchen space behind her home, Julie has built her business from the ground up with determination and heart. In a short time, she has already earned a strong reputation and impressive success.”
Business of the Year: Great Improvements
Canaan Collection is the proud sponsor of this award.
This nomination describes, “In the last few years, Great Improvements has grown substantially, providing steady work for our growing number of employees and a broad network of subcontractors. I would love to see Larry be recognized for his hard work, dedication, ambition, skill and family-style workplace environment that has been created and fostered here.”
One of the nominations said, “After more than 20 years of hard work, it’s been incredible to see the continued growth and momentum of the business in recent years. Lawrence lead with integrity, takes pride in what he does, and genuinely values the people around him-both employees and customers alike.”
Another said, “He has consistently gone above and beyond in providing accurate, timely, and thoughtful information to help guide our decision-making process. His depth of knowledge and understanding of the local landscape-both from a business and community perspective-has made a meaningful impact on our ability to move forward with confidence.”
Community Service Award: Kenneth Poling
Canaan Valley Resort is the proud sponsor of this award.
One nomination said, “Kenneth joined the Parsons Volunteer Fire Department in September 1974, at the age of 17, and has served faithfully for the past 51 years. This year, he was recognized as the department’s top responder.”
Another shared his story, “As his brother I know him well. He started early in life helping others. I think I was probably his first…with one swing he hit my arm that was stuck between two plugs and freed me from electricity.”
Other nominations mention, “Kenny also served as volunteer EMT, an ambulance driver and maintained the supplies for the ambulances in Parsons. We cannot provide an exact number of years for his medical service, I estimate he served for 20 to 30 years, ending his tenure when the department transitioned to paid EMT positions.”
Cultural Heritage and Arts: Mary “Charlie” Waters
ArtSpring is the proud sponsor of this award.
This nomination mentions, “Charlie as a retired Tucker County High School art teacher. She instructed and nurtured students to use art to expand their daily lives. She used Tucker Community Foundation grants to build and Art Program for varied interest and skill levels at TCHS.” “She also mentored a few students to pursue art in their higher education.” “Charlie was an integral support of the event, School-Town Arts (STArt). Which showcased and awarded her students’ artwork plus the artwork of the elementary-middle schools.”
It also explains, “She has continued to bring art to the local community through Tucker Count Community Art Making Space in Thomas. This community art making space brings together a diverse group who learn new art methods and make art for the fun of it!”
Outdoor Recreation: Bobby Snyder
Snowsports Museum of WV is the proud sponsor of this award.
A nomination said, “Bobby Snyder’s legacy in Canaan Valley is one of dedication, leadership, and a deep love for the outdoors and community he called home.”
“He began his journey in Canaan Valley in 1977, working at Canaan Valley Resort State Park. It was here that he developed a lifelong connection to the land and people who cherish it. He later found his calling in construction, building homes and playing a meaningful role in the development of Tucker County. Bobby served as a inspector of the Canaan Valley Zoning District, a role he carried with integrity and commitment until this past fall.”
“His passion for skiing led him to Timberline Mountain, where he served as Ski School Director. There, Bobby built a ski school and racing program unlike any other. One rooted not just in skill, but in connection. He believed that while skiing could be taught, kindess and the ability to connect with people came from within. As he often said, ‘I can teach you to ski, but you have to be good with people.’”
“His legacy lives on through many lives he touched, the community he helped shape, and the joy he brought to every room and every mountain he graced.”
Special Award: Tucker County Highschool Cheerleaders
St. George Medical Clinic is the proud sponsor of this award.
This nomination describes, “The team is being nominated for qualifying for states as runner-up. This was the 2nd year of them qualifying for states, which was the first time qualifying in 10 years.”
Another nomination said, “While they shine on the sidelines, their impact reaches far beyond game day. They are the constant voice of encouragement for every team, always the first to lift others up, celebrate successes, and keep school spirit alive in every season.
“Even more impressive is their heart for their community. From supporting families through Angel Tree to organizing and contributing to local donations, they use their platform to give back and make a difference.”
Tuckineer: TO BE ANNOUNCED AT THE BANQUET
Citizens Bank of West Virginia is the sponsor of this prestigious award.
For more information or to reserve your tickets, contact the Chamber office at 304-259-5315 prior to the end of business on May 15th! They can be purchased online at tuckercountychamber.org. If you would like to reserve a table, please contact the office.
