More than 230 investors and community leaders gathered for the Alamance Chamber’s Annual Meeting, presented by Duke Energy, for an evening of celebration, connection, and recognition. The event was originally scheduled for Tuesday, January 27th but was postponed to February 10th due to winter weather.
Following a networking reception sponsored by Emma L. Broady Academy, President & CEO Reagan C. Gural welcomed guests and reflected on a year defined by momentum…highlighting the Chamber’s work in advocacy, leadership development, workforce initiatives, and support for small businesses and industry. The Honorable Judge Larry Brown offered the invocation before attendees enjoyed a dinner from Western Steakhouse, and dessert from Andy’s Frozen Custard.
The evening also celebrated leadership in many forms. Outgoing Board Members LeAndra “Nikki” Ratliff of Burlington Housing Authority, and Reed LaPlante, First National Bank were recognized for their service on the Board of Directors. In addition, 2025 Board Chair Ryan Moffitt (Vernon Law Firm) was recognized for his steady guidance and commitment to the Chamber over the past year, before officially passing the gavel to 2026 Board Chair Rachel Baldwin (Edward Jones). In addition to honoring this leadership transition, two of the Chamber’s most distinguished recognitions were presented. The Leader of Distinction Award, presented by Kelly May, recognized Samantha Loy of Always Best Care Senior Services for her exceptional leadership and community impact. The Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award, presented by Hank Henning of Duke Energy, honored Kathy Hykes for decades of civic engagement, volunteer leadership, and her lasting contributions to organizations that support women, children, and families throughout Alamance County. Together, these recognitions reflect the spirit of service and leadership that defines our Chamber and our community.
These recipients represent the very best of collaboration, service, and forward-thinking leadership in our region.
2025 Award Winners
Ambassador of the Year
Steve Floyd, Jennings Bryan-Chappell Insurance
Officer of the Year
Allison Gant, Blue Ridge Institute / Vice Chair of Investor Engagement, Alamance Chamber Board
Community Partner of the Year:
Elon University Campus Alamance Program (Accepted by: Nancy Carpenter)
Program of the Year:
Apprentice Alamance (Award accepted by Eddie Gant, Chairman)
Entrepreneur of the Year:
(Presented by Michelle Spurlock, 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year)
Terri McCormack, Simply Massage & Wellness
Small Business of the Year:
(Presented by Tom McGowen, Stout Stuart McGowen & King)
The Village Grill (Accepted by: Randy & Katherine Cox)
Leader of Distinction Award
(Presented by Kelly May, 2024 Recipient)
Samantha Loy, Always Best Care Senior Services
Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award
(Presented by Hank Henning, Duke Energy)
Kathy Hykes
The Alamance Chamber’s Annual Meeting was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors. We are especially grateful to our Presenting Sponsor, Duke Energy. Our Event Partners included Alamance Community College, Andy’s Frozen Custard, Bobbitt, Cone Health, Glen Raven, and Labcorp. Supporting Sponsors were Enbridge Gas NC and Gates Management & Realty, along with our Corporate Sponsors; First National Bank, Samet Corporation, Gilliam Bell Moser, LLP, Sirius Talent, and AuthoraCare.
We also extend special thanks to our Reception Sponsor, Emma Lee Broady Academy; our Dessert Sponsor, Andy’s Frozen Custard; and our Photography Sponsor, The Nixon’s Photography . Additional appreciation goes to the Alliance Convention Center for hosting the event, RH Barringer and American Premium Beverage and Western Steakhouse for the wonderful dinner.
Photography Provided by: The Nixon’s Photography (please give credit to this business when sharing event photos)
