Submit your nomination for "A Toast to Our Communities" awards

Updated: October 19, 2009

"Possibly the best on the continental United States…

"…represents the entire Iowa City/Coralville community in a positive manner.

"…have turned their dream into a reality - twice!"

Does this sound like you or someone you know? These are just a few of the praises we’ve received for members of the Area Chamber Hall of Fame. Each year, we seek those who represent the best in business and honor them at "A Toast to Our Communities," the Chamber’s annual awards ceremony.

We need your help to find individuals and businesses to join the ranks. The criteria and categories are listed below.

Economic Development Award: The nominated organization or business has made a significant contribution to the area’s economy.

Small Business of the Year: The nominated business must have 20 or fewer permanent employees (FTE).

Chamber Volunteer of the Year: The nominated individual has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce.

Honored Farm Family: The nominated family-based operation has demonstrated exceptional achievement in agriculture or biosciences.

Diversity and Inclusion Award: The nominated business or organization demonstrates an exceptional commitment to diversity (including age, educational and professional background, gender, geography, lifestyle, personal beliefs, race and sexual orientation) and inclusion.

Spark Leadership Award (New in 2009): The nominated individual must be an alumnus of the Community Leadership Program. The individual has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to the Iowa City Area.

All nominees, with the exception of the Honored Farm Family and Spark Leadership awards, must be members of the Area Chamber of Commerce to be eligible.

To submit a nomination, e-mail heather@iowacityarea.com with the category, name of nominee and three reasons they should receive the award. Click here to download a nomination form. Nominations are due October 16. Recipients will be selected through online voting on our Web site, October 20 through October 28.

Awards will be presented at A Toast to Our Communities on Thursday, November 5 at the University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame. In addition to great food, drinks, music and networking, this event recognizes individuals and businesses that contribute to our community.

The Chamber Board has also voted to bestow the Russell Slade Volunteerism Award this year. Given to a positive role model and cheerleader for the community involved with a broad spectrum of groups/
organizations and willing to prioritize service to the community above personal advantage, this recognition is awarded only on those rare occasions when special acknowledgment of an outstanding candidate is appropriate.

Join us at A Toast to Our Communities when we honor a beloved leader, Eliot Keller with the Russell Slade Volunteerism Award, as well those deserving individuals and businesses chosen by you, our members. All are welcome to attend!

Related Items

A Toast to Our Communities 2009 Nomination Form.pdf