2022 Annual Award Meeting & Dinner

Statesville, NC – April 26, 2022 – The Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce hosted their Annual Award Dinner and Meeting on Tuesday evening, April 26th, at the Statesville Civic Center. The Annual Meeting, sponsored by Denso, was well attended, and focused on the chamber’s advocacy efforts, initiatives, and services.

This year’s Keynote Speaker, sponsored by Piedmont HealthCare, was Mike Lyles. Mr. Lyles is a dynamic speaker, with over 28 years of experience in IT, working with Fortune 50 and other large companies through his career. His presentation, “Significance over Success”, engaged the audience inspiring to lead life with purpose and intention.

This year, awards were presented to four categories. The Business of the Year with 25 or more employees, sponsored by Iredell Health System, went to Banner Drug. For Business of the Year for 24 or fewer employees was presented to Doug Madison Realty. The Community Impact (Non-Profit of the Year) Award was given to Fifth Street Ministries.

The Citizen of the Year Award, sponsored by Nicholson Funeral Home, was presented by their President, Bill Brater and given to Jeffrey Smith, CEO of Piedmont HealthCare, CPA, MBA, CGMA, FACMPE. Jeff has been with Piedmont HealthCare for nine years. In addition to his work with Piedmont, he has served on the Economic Development Board and the Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce Board. He has served as the Chairman of the Chamber Board and their Finance Chair. Nationally he sits on the MGMA Board of Directors and is currently the Chair of Finance and Audit. Jeff serves on both local and nation-wide boards and lead his organization through some of the most challenging years healthcare will ever face. Championing over 1,200 employees this citizen instills a passion for giving back to the Statesville community through a variety of partnerships and local non-profits.

Shannon Viera, President, and CEO of the Chamber gave opening remarks stating, “The Chamber is and always has been a resource to serve the businesses and the community. We have made it through challenging times, and we are ready restart, reengage and reignite this community.” She also introduced two new staff members of the Statesville Chamber, Joni Stone, Marketing and Communications Director, and Julie Roland, Membership and Events Coordinator. “In 2021 the Chamber has reintroduced more live in-person events and initiatives such as the “Leadership Statesville” program, focused on cultivating and connecting the leadership community in Statesville. We are thrilled to have both Joni and Julie who will be instrumental in growing the Chamber in the coming year.”

The Invocation was said by Pastor Wesley Wexrode from Bristol Baptist Church.

Denso was the title sponsor for the evening and their new President, Jon Callies, spoke and presented a video showcasing their new clean room facilities.

The event was catered by Café 220 with music provided by DJ Julius Hoke.

Photos by Mike Furman, Iredell Free News