The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce announced the winners of its highly anticipated 121st Annual Dinner & Awards Gala Nov. 21, celebrating exceptional businesses, individuals, and organizations for their outstanding contributions to the San Marcos community. The prestigious awards honor those who have demonstrated unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and commitment to enhancing the quality of life in San Marcos.
From trailblazing young professionals and innovative businesses to dedicated educators and nonprofits, the event recognized the many contributions that strengthen the San Marcos area. Highlights included the presentation of these prestigious awards:
- Citizen of the Year: Dr. Kelly Damphousse, Texas State University President
- Business of the Year: Green Guy Recycling
- Emerging Business of the Year: Cude Engineers
- Green Business of the Year: Tanger Outlets San Marcos
- Education Partner of the Year: CJ Odam - Director of CTE, San Marcos CISD
- Ambassador of the Year: Sheila Beck, AirOne Heating & Air Conditioning
- Non-Profit of the Year: The Teacher Reuse founded by Shelly O’Donnell
This event celebrated the spirit of leadership and collaboration that drives the community forward. It spotlighted the many recent contributions that businesses and individuals have made in San Marcos, as well as a recognition of the Chamber’s board leadership transition and a look ahead to a new year of opportunities.
“TXST and San Marcos have been partners for 125 years, and yet, I feel like our story is really just getting started. As San Marcos rises, Texas State rises—and vice versa," said TXST President Kelly Damphousse. “We are building something special here, together. I am so proud to be a part of that story.”
Another major highlight of the evening was the recognition of the 2024 Shining Stars Under 40 award winners: Sheila Beck, AirOne Heating and Air Conditioning; Cassidy Berenato, Texas Aviation Partners; Jessica James, Texas State University-School of Journalism & Mass Communications; Mike Kamerlander, Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership; Katy Scruton, 3Z Realty; and Thaddeus Watkins, Edward Jones.
“These awards represent the best of the San Marcos community,” said Page Michel, President and CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “The recipients embody what it means to uplift our city through their commitment, resilience, and passion for service. We are honored to recognize them tonight and are grateful for their lasting impact on San Marcos.”
"The entire event was wonderful! I’m excited to build on this momentum and work together to help San Marcos rise to even greater heights in the year ahead," said Cassidy Berenato of Texas Aviation Partners, Incoming Chamber Board Chair.
"This past year has been a testament to what dedicated volunteer leaders can accomplish when they work together," said Outgoing Chair of the Chamber Board Justin Payne of Frost Bank. "I’m incredibly proud of the strides we’ve made and the foundation we’ve built for future success."
For more information about the benefits of Chamber membership and how your business can get involved, call the San Marcos Area Chamber at 512.393.5900 or visit www.SanMarcosTexas.com.