West Coast Chamber of Commerce Recognizes HPS at Annual Awards
Inspire Award: This award was presented to Holland Public Schools, a cornerstone of education in the Holland community since 1848. They inspire the community by uniting around the success of every student, creating trailblazing programs for staff and students, and providing meaningful opportunities in and out of the classroom to ensure academic and personal growth.
On Thursday, September 26, 2024, the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Awards Celebration at the Holland Civic Center. Nearly 300 community members gathered to celebrate the achievements and impact of several remarkable organizations in the community. The event was made possible by the support of Platinum Program Sponsor, Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network of Michigan.
"We had an incredible time celebrating with our members at the 2024 Annual Awards Celebration,” said Jodi Owczarski, Chamber President & CEO. “The energy was contagious, and it was an honor to recognize the remarkable organizations and people that make up our community. We are excited for the year ahead!”
Awards were presented to three other organizations and one individual in the following categories:
Innovation Award: This award was presented to Tanglewood Winery. Tanglewood Winery started in 1960 as a family-owned agricultural business and has been passed from father to son. With their roots in the blueberry business, Tanglewood is innovating their winery with cutting edge technology and a unique farm-to-table experience.
Impact Award: This award was presented to Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity and Jubilee Ministries. Since 1990, Lakeshore Habitat has been building strength, stability, and independence through affordable housing. Jubilee Ministries, founded in 1999, creates pathways to first-time homeownership through the development of attainable housing. Together, their partnership and collaboration are impacting one of the most pressing issues in our community and providing stability for families along the lakeshore.
Excellence Award: This award was presented to Mission Design and Automation. Mission Design and Automation is a custom automation systems integrator. They are committed to the success of their customers and their team, continually striving to deliver innovative solutions that drive industry growth. They are excelling as a leading intelligent automation integrator in West Michigan.
Icon Award: This award was presented to Jennifer Owens, President of Lakeshore Advantage. Jennifer is one of the most respected practitioners in the field of economic development in the country. A visionary with a passion for action, Jennifer is a fierce advocate for the growth and prosperity of the lakeshore. With over two decades of service, she has become an icon in driving forward-thinking progress for the region.
To learn more about each of our award winners, follow the Chamber’s West Coast Way publication. Our winners’ stories will be shared in the coming months.
About the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce:
The Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce serves over 1,200 member businesses and their 80,000 employees in the Holland and Zeeland areas. As a Catalyst, Convener, and Champion, the Chamber connects member businesses to the resources they need to be successful. The Chamber has been recognized with the U.S. Chamber’s prestigious Five Star Accreditation and has placed as a 2024 Finalist for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Chamber of the Year award. Learn more by visiting www.westcoastchamber.org.