Chamber Community Awards

Written By: Stephanie Edwards - Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce | Issue: 2019/01 - Winter

The 2018 winners of the Annual Spirit of Our Community Awards were announced at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting and Celebration on Thursday, November 15.

The 2018 Evergreen Award, presented to an individual, business or other organization whose work reflects respect of natural resources and the value of sustainability, was presented to Southern Highlands Reserve for their dedication to sustaining the natural ecosystems of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Businessperson of the Year Award, presented to a business representative who has leveraged commercial resources to support community initiatives in an extraordinary manner was presented to Sam Lupas of Landmark Realty Group.  Sam led the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital Board through a concerted examination of the proposed Mission Hospital acquisition by HCA Healthcare, the nation’s largest health care system, and is one of only a select few recently appointed to the Dogwood Health Trust, funded by the sale of Mission. 

The Educator of the Year Award, presented to a teacher or administrator who has uniquely promoted character development and motivation as a foundation for future success, was bestowed to Donna Smith of Cashiers Valley Preschool for her pivotal role in shaping the youngest minds at Cashiers Valley Preschool.

The Volunteer of the Year Award, presented to an individual, or in this case a couple, who have generously given of their personal time, talent and/or financial support to improve the lives of those in the community, was awarded to Vicky and Rick Robson, who have provided emotional, financial, and educational support to many in need. 

The Arts & Culture Advocate of the Year Award, presented to an individual, business or organization that promotes artistic enhancement or cultural awareness, was bestowed to Justin Allman of FireMoss Pottery.  In his local ceramic studio, Justin relishes creating pottery that stands on its own as visual and textural pieces that reflect regional North Carolina themes. 

The coveted Citizen of the Year Award, presented to an individual who has significantly and positively impacted community development through vision, innovation, and leadership, was awarded to Vanna Cameron for her unparalleled legacy of generosity, compassion, enthusiasm, commitment, and service to her community. 

Vanna’s charitable support has spanned decades through her work with the Valley Garden Club, Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library, Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, and the Rotary Club of Cashiers Valley, among others.