There are two reasons why the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce has sponsored an annual meeting for more than a century — to acknowledge excellence and to look toward the future.
Nearly 300 tickets have already been sold so far for this year’s event, planned for 11:30 a.m. March 28 at The Commons. Chamber President Cindy Frey, said she anticipates the $50 a seat luncheon will soon sell out.
Reservations may be made online at columbusareachamber.com or by telephone at 812-379-4457.
This year’s keynote speaker is ClearObject Inc. CEO John McDonald. Founded in 2010, McDonald’s Fishers-based company is widely considered to be Indiana’s leading Internet of Things Systems Integrator.
The term “Internet of Things” refers to the network of devices such as vehicles and home appliances that contain electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and connectivity which allows these different items to connect, interact and exchange data.
Examples cited by Frey include the Amazon Echo, a hands-free voice-controlled speaker commonly known as Alexa, as well as the ability to use a smartphone to remotely control thermostats, lights and security systems.
McDonald, who has leadership roles with several high-tech organizations such as the Indiana Technology and Innovation Center, will likely spend some time discussing his firm’s relationship with local companies including Cummins Inc. and LHP Engineering Solutions, Frey said.
But McDonald, a 1995 Purdue University graduate, has also become well-known as an advocate for statewide policies that foster entrepreneurship as a economic strategy, the chamber president said.
“I think (McDonald) will bring a bigger message of why we should help other young entrepreneurs like himself become successful,” Frey said.
That message will fit in with an anticipated update that will be given at the meeting about a joint community partnership program announced last October.
Called Velocities, the partnership of Columbus and Bloomington with a venture development organization is intended to develop an entrepreneurship-minded culture and infrastructure in south-central Indiana.
But there’s much more expected than just talk about high-tech businesses and entrepreneurship, the chamber president said.
“There are very few times when leaders from both large and small businesses, government, education and non-profit all gather into one room for one event,” Frey said. “It is a privilege for the chamber to showcase and celebrate all of their best efforts.”
One of the most anticipated honors is the announcement of the Edna Folger Outstanding Teacher Award, which has been sponsored by Faurecia the last few years.
Last year, Columbus East High School special education teacher Michelle Burnett received a $4,000 personal award as part of her honor.
Another prestigious honor is the Community Service Award, which is presented to someone who gave time and talent — and sometimes money — to help the community outside of their job. Last year’s recipients were Hutch and Kevina Schumaker.
The Maverick Challenge awards are given to students who display hands-on examples of innovation and entrepreneurship. Last year’s first place winner was Columbus North student Taylor Klingler, who received a $1,500 award.
Other well-established awards presented during the luncheon include “Business of the Year” and “Community Project of the Year.”
Centra Credit Union is the keynote sponsor for this year’s annual meeting.
[sc:pullout-title pullout-title=”Five awards at Chamber luncheon ” ][sc:pullout-text-begin]
As many as five prestigious awards are presented during the annual meeting of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce:
Company of the Year: Intended to recognize the extraordinary accomplishments, achievements, and community citizenship displayed by the recipient.
Community Project of the Year: Presented for the depth and quality of a project’s work. It is awarded as a reminder of what can achieved through community projects when residents work alongside together.
Community Service Award: Presented annually since the end of World War II, this award is meant to recognize outstanding service and leadership in a broad range of community affairs. It also recognizes projects that have benefited the community, and service that has stimulated and inspired a disposition to public service among others.
Maverick Challenge Awards: This program is designed to give high school students hands-on experience in the practice of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Edna V. Folger Award: The award was designed to renew awareness of the immeasurable influence teachers have on their students and to recognize the traditional image of the teacher as a community role model.
Source: Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce president Cindy Frey.
[sc:pullout-text-end][sc:pullout-title pullout-title=”If you go” ][sc:pullout-text-begin]
What: 110th annual meeting of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce
When: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 28
Where: The Commons, 300 Washington St.
Cost: $50 per person. Reservations can be made online at columbusareachamber.com or by telephone at 812-379-4457.
[sc:pullout-text-end]
