Here’s to Your Spirit

Written By: Susan Gregory, Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce | Issue: Winter 2025

It’s with great excitement and pride that we announce the recipients of last year’s Spirit Awards.

These remarkable individuals have shown an unwavering commitment to making a difference and embodying the heart of our community. We are truly fortunate to have these individuals as part of our community.

Citizen of the Year – Harriet Karro

Harriet tirelessly moderates, updates, and manages the ‘Cashiers Community Together’ Facebook group with remarkable consistency, kindness, and a positive attitude. For the past four and a half years, Harriet has dedicated herself to this role, guiding the community through growth, a pandemic, Hurricane Helene and the challenges that come with a rapidly expanding group.

Businesspersons of the Year – Daniel Fletcher, Brett Stewart and Taylor Stewart of Outland Hospitality Group

Daniel Fletcher, along with brothers Brett Stewart and Taylor Stewart of the Outland Hospitality Group, have been integral to the success and growth of Hotel Cashiers and Wine Bar. Recently, they expanded their investment by purchasing the Slab Town shopping center, further solidifying their commitment to Cashiers.

Brett and Taylor, who grew up in Cashiers, have deep roots in the area, while Daniel, though newer to the community, has quickly become a driving force. He has actively engaged with local organizations, joining the JCTDA, Cashiers Planning Council, and the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce boards, demonstrating his dedication to the future of our town.

Educator of the Year – Kurt Pusch, Summit Charter School

Since arriving in Cashiers in 2019, Kurt has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, a commitment to academic excellence, and a positive impact on our community. His achievements in fostering both academic success and a positive school culture make him a very deserving candidate for the 2024 Educator of the Year Award. As Summit’s Head of School, Kurt has overseen the following:

– A 37 percent increase in enrollment over the past five years, marking Summit’s largest enrollment since
its founding.

– Expansion of school facilities, including the opening of a new gymnasium, classrooms for music and art, a fitness center, and the completion of Phase I and II of new high school buildings.

– 100 percent of Summit’s Class of 2022, 2023, and 2024 earned admission to college, with 151 offers from 60+ colleges and universities.

Volunteer of the Year – Chris Jefferson

Chris leads a bi-monthly Dementia Caregiver’s Support Group in Cashiers, and her impact on both patients and caregivers is immeasurable. Drawing from years of experience, she provides practical advice that helps caregivers improve safety and quality of life for their loved ones. A wealth of knowledge on the medical system and the many options available for dementia patients, Chris is also an invaluable resource for the often-overlooked task of end-of-life legal and financial planning.

Arts & Culture Advocate of the Year – Danie Beck

Danie’s tireless volunteer work and dedication to the Cashiers area span multiple organizations and initiatives, making her a standout candidate across several award categories. Since moving to the area, Danie has become a vibrant and indispensable force in our community. She is an active member and board member for local organizations such as Cashiers School of the Arts and Cashiers Cares. Danie’s boundless energy and professional background in dance and the arts have been a tremendous asset.

Evergreen Award – Paul Robshaw & Vision Cashiers for Walk Cashiers

Paul Robshaw and Vision Cashiers have masterfully navigated the complex and vital task of enhancing the walkability of our village. The recent completion of Phase 1 of the Walk Cashiers project, along with the previous pathway through The Village Green, features 1.6 miles of accessible, paved walking trails, and is a testament to the success of Paul’s efforts.