The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Gilbert Independent/Independent Newsmedia, Gilbert Public Schools, Higley Unified School District, and the Town of Gilbert, has announced the honorees for the 29th Annual Gilbert Community Excellence Awards. The event is presented by Colair Beauty Lounge & Med Spa.
These awards recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations for their contributions to the community in areas such as business leadership, education, volunteerism, and public service.
Honorees from the business sector include Landings Credit Union receiving the Spirit of Business Award. Chief Michael Soelberg of the Gilbert Police Department is recognized with the Visionary Award. Christie Boutain from First Western Bank will receive the Leon Uhlhorn Chairman’s Award.
In education, Chandler-Gilbert Community College named Kimberly McGee as Faculty Member of the Year and Russell Luce as Staff Member of the Year. From Gilbert Public Schools, Morgan Pardy was selected as Dr. Walter Delecki Educator of the Year at Mesquite Elementary School (Primary), while Stephanie Campbell received this honor at Desert Ridge High School (Secondary). Mrs. Chen from Mesquite Junior High was named Support Staff of the Year and Marisa Andrade was recognized as Volunteer of the Year.
Higley Unified School District honored Margaret Silva (Bridges Elementary) and Taylor Vickers (Cooley Middle School) as Educators of the Year for primary and secondary levels respectively. Ethan Haney received Support Staff recognition and Rita Baldwin was named Volunteer of the Year.
Community awards presented by Gilbert Independent/Independent Newsmedia included Water Tower Plaza for Beautification and Lisa Abelar for volunteerism.
Municipal awards from the Town of Gilbert went to Melanie Dykstra (Employee of the Year), Steve Goldman (Volunteer), Officer Emily King (Public Safety), and Debbie Dana (Administrative Support).
The awards ceremony will take place on November 12, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix Gilbert. The event will also feature a culinary showcase with food provided by local Chamber member restaurants and caterers.
“These awards honor those who lead with heart, inspire change, and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to our community’s values across the platforms of business, education, volunteerism, and public service.”
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