Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Foundation announces 2026 Community Award Nominees

STILLWATER, MN—The Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Foundation is pleased to announce the nominees for the 2026 Community Awards, which will be presented during the annual Chamber Community Award Celebration Gala. This year’s Chamber Gala, featuring a Derby-themed evening, will take place on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the JX Event Center, 123 2nd Street N. in Stillwater.

The Community Awards honor individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to the St. Croix Valley community. Nominations are made by community and Chamber members, and winners are chosen by a panel of the previous year's Award winners.

The 2026 Gala will also mark the kickoff of the Greater Stillwater Chamber’s 135th anniversary recognition and celebration.

"We are proud to celebrate the incredible individuals and businesses that make our community shine at the 2026 Community Awards Gala. This year's Derby theme sets the stage for an unforgettable evening of recognition and gratitude. Congratulations to all the nominees—you are the true stars of the Greater Stillwater area!" – Robin Anthony-Evenson, President, Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce and its Foundation.

And the nominees are……

Chamber Ambassador of the Year:

• Jaculin Sparling, Cornerstone Chevrolet Stillwater
• Jen Rogness, FIT Real Estate
• Margie Schmid, Sprout Nutrition & Wellness Coaching

Behind the Badge:

• Joel Legut - Sergeant, Washington County Sheriff Department
• Laura McBroom - School Resource Officer, Stillwater Middle School
• Nic Barratt - Supervising Paramedic, Lakeview EMS
• Stuart Glaser - Fire Chief, Stillwater Fire Department

Educator of the Year:

• Amy Budion - French Teacher, Stillwater Area Schools
• Amy Cook - Oak-Land Middle School
• Caitlyn Willis - Executive Director of Elementary Education, Stillwater Area Schools
• Don Kirkpatrick - Saint Croix Valley ALC
• Gina Doe - Principal, Afton-Lakeland Elementary
• May Vue - Smart Start Childcare and Learning Center
• Sheila Folden - Rutherford Elementary
• Yoko Cheatham - Afton-Lakeland Elementary

Large Business of the Year:

• Eckberg Lammers, P.C.
• First State Bank and Trust
• LORA Hotel and Event Center
• Oak Glen Golf Course
• Royal Credit Union

Non Profit of the Year:

• Bridge to Books
• Discover Stillwater
• Stepping Stone Emergency Housing
• Sustainable Stillwater MN

Service with a Smalley/Hospitality Award:

• Lake Elmo Inn
• ParT Barn/Alex Eder
• The Daily Grind/Tim Palm

Small Business of the Year: 

• Align Optimal Wellness
• Anthem Strength & Conditioning
• Chiroway of Stillwater
• Darn Knit Anyway
• Midbrod Electric
• Peachiie Marketing
• Princess Paula Consulting
• Son’s Deli
• The Underground
• Wild River Running

Volunteer of the Year:

• Brandon Lamb
• Kadie Frey
• Mike Polehna
• Richard Anderson
• Sara Jespersen
• Shellee Mierow
• Tara Cadenhead

In addition to the Awards Ceremony, the evening will feature fundraising activities to support the work the Foundation does on education initiatives, workforce development, leadership programs, business development, and community events which enrich the life of our communities. Look for a fabulous live auction, raffles, and a Derby-themed activity.

Award nominees and attendees can pose for a photo opportunity upon entering the Gala and proceed to a social hour with entertainment before the program starts at 7:00 pm. This event is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to embrace the Derby theme by dressing in cocktail or themed attire.

Join us for a night of celebration, recognition, and community spirit as we honor those who make the St. Croix Valley a remarkable place to live and work. Tickets and tables are available - to reserve your spot or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please visit the
Greater Stillwater Chamber website or contact the Chamber office at 651-439-4001.