The Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2025 annual meeting to a sold-out crowd.
Nearly 500 local business leaders, dignitaries and community members attended. Brian Conybeare of ABC 57 served as emcee. The luncheon began with an invocation by Pastor Lori King of Guidance Ministries. David Findlay, Lake City Bank president, kicked off the meeting festivities.
At the meeting, the chamber honored individuals and organizations in the community. The 2025 award winners included:
- Business of the Year: Boling Vision Center. Over the past year, the chamber’s Business Recognition Council selected twelve Businesses of the Month from nominations. The criteria for Business of the Month includes growth, innovation, entrepreneurial story, community involvement and impact on the local economy.
- Nonprofit of the Year: Boys and Girls Clubs of Elkhart County. Each year the Business Recognition Council recognizes one nonprofit organization that serves the community. Throughout the year, the chamber honored four nonprofits and selected the nonprofit of the year from those winners.
- Century Plus Community Award: Bull Moose Tube. The chamber presents the Century Plus Community Award annually to a chamber member business or organization who has operated in the Region for 100 years or more. The recipient will also have demonstrated a commitment to the strengthening of the Greater Elkhart area.
- Woman of the Year: Jess Koscher, Write Connections president/CEO. The Women’s Council recognizes a woman who has distinguished herself in her organization, profession and community.
- Ambassador of the Year: Chris Boynton, B100/Federated Media. The Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year builds relationships and meets with companies to aid growth and success. The ambassador represents their company and the chamber at networking events and member celebrations.
“We are thrilled to see such a strong turnout at this year's annual meeting,” said Levon Johnson, Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, in a press release. “It's a testament to the vibrant business community we have here in Elkhart and the chamber's dedication to fostering growth and collaboration.”
The event also included a panel discussion “We Are Better Together” moderated by Johnson. Panelists included Arvis Dawson, Elkhart City Council; Suzie Weirick, Elkhart County commissioner; Joanna King, Indiana House of Representatives, District 49; and Rudy Yakym, U.S. House of Representatives.
The Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce aims to serve as a resource for businesses of all sizes and industries. It offers support, advocacy and networking opportunities.
