Bryan Lewis, Chamber Vice Chair, Tracy Foor (recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award), Johanna Fein, Chamber Executive Director and Blye Hunsinger, Chamber Board Chair.
The Highlands Chamber of Commerce proudly honored exceptional individuals and organizations at its annual Fall Finale Business After Hours, held September 25 at Trailborn Highlands. The event gathered Chamber members to celebrate outstanding contributions that exemplify leadership, service, and dedication to the Highlands community.
Bryan Lewis, Chamber Vice Chair, Ryan Bryson. Bryson Enterprises (received the Del Roberts Award for Outstanding Business), Blye Hunsinger, Chamber Board Chair and Johanna Fein, Chamber Executive Director.
2025 Honorees:
Volunteer of the Year: Tracy Foor
This award recognizes an individual who demonstrates exemplary leadership, commitment to volunteerism, and community service. As President of the Highlands Historical Society, Tracy devoted countless hours combing through archives to uncover photos and stories that commemorated Highlands’ 150th anniversary. His work has been featured in the Chamber’s 2025 Experience Guide and shared weekly through local newspapers. Tracy also spearheaded the innovative Historic Buildings Audio Tour, which uses QR codes on plaques around town to bring Highlands’ rich history to life.
Del Roberts Award for Outstanding Business: Bryson Enterprises
Established in 2005, this award honors businesses or individuals who have made unselfish and lasting contributions to Highlands’ business community. Bryson Enterprises has been a cornerstone of Highlands for more than 45 years, and their impact in 2025 extended far beyond business as usual. When Hurricane Helene caused a washout on Highway 106/Dillard Road, cutting off access for students, workers, supplies, and visitors, the Bryson team worked swiftly to make critical repairs. They reopened the road weeks ahead of schedule. This achievement underscored their deep commitment to serving Highlands.
Bryan Lewis, Chamber Vice Chair, Brian Stiehler (accepting the Robert B. Dupree Award for Outstanding Community Service), Johanna Fein, Chamber Executive Director and Blye Hunsinger, Chamber Board Chair.
Robert B. Dupree Award for Outstanding Community Service: Brian Stiehler
This prestigious award recognizes a long-standing and distinguished record of selfless service. For more than 14 years, Brian served as a Town Commissioner and consistently put community first. His leadership has strengthened Highlands through initiatives such as supporting the Scholarship Golf Tournament, chairing and serving on numerous committees including for the Chamber, and championing the creation of an inclusive playground. This project is poised to become a lasting part of his legacy.
“It was a pleasure to be able to acknowledge and thank each of our award winners,” said Johanna Fein, Executive Director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. “For the work they do, for the spirit they bring, and for their ongoing support of the Town of Highlands.”
For more information on the Highlands Chamber of Commerce, call 828-526-5841 or visit highlandschamber.org.
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