Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce Announces 2024 A+ Awards Celebration
AMHERST — The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce announced the return of the A+ Awards celebration, set to honor exemplary leaders who have significantly enriched the community through their dedication in education, business, and civic engagement. The A+ Awards dinner is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the UMass Student Union Ballroom.
This year, the chamber continues its tradition of recognizing outstanding contributions to the community across Amherst, Belchertown, Hadley, Leverett, Pelham, Shutesbury, and Sunderland, as well as the broader Pioneer Valley. The event is presented by PeoplesBank.
“PeoplesBank is honored to support the chamber’s efforts to highlight the remarkable individuals whose visionary leadership and passionate commitment have made a profound impact on our community,” said Matt Bannister, senior vice president of Corporate Responsibility at PeoplesBank. “We stand with the chamber in celebrating these local heroes who inspire us all.”
The 2024 A+ Awards recipients include:
• Legacy/Lifetime Achievement Award: Colleen Kelley, retired Education director at Hitchcock Center for the Environment, known for her 40 years of transformative contributions to environmental education.
• Leader in Innovation: Feel Good Shop Local, recognized for its initiatives in supporting local artisans and makers and promoting sustainable shopping practices.
• Young Professional Award: Kayla Sheridan, Marketing director at TommyCar Auto Group, recognized for her dynamic marketing strategies and leadership within the automotive industry.
• Community Service Award: Seiha Krouch, paraeducator and community leader in Amherst, noted for his dedication to the Cambodian community and cultural preservation.
• Chamber MVP Award: Georgia Moore, director of Leadership Gifts at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, renowned for her extensive community service and significant roles in enhancing business and nonprofit collaboration.
• Harvesting Excellence Award: Claudia Pazmany, former executive director of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, celebrated for her leadership in revitalizing and strengthening the Chamber during critical times.
“The A+ Awards are a cornerstone in our mission to foster a vibrant community,” said Jacob Robinson, executive director of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce. “Each awardee exemplifies the spirit of dedication, innovation, and community service that drives our region forward. We invite the community to join us in celebrating these outstanding achievements and continue to support the positive growth of our area.”
Tickets to the A+ Awards Dinner are available now by visiting www.amherstarea.com/awards or calling (413) 253-0700.