February 24, 2026 – Auburn, Ala. — The Auburn Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2026 Annual Meeting on Tuesday, February 24, at the Indoor Practice Facility at the Auburn University Athletic Complex. The breakfast program brought together Auburn’s business, civic and community leaders to reflect on a year of growth, recognize outstanding achievements and look ahead to the Chamber’s future.

The meeting was presented by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, whose continued investment underscores a long-standing commitment to the Auburn Chamber and the Auburn business community. The Chamber also extends its sincere appreciation to this year’s event sponsors: Alabama Power, AuburnBank, Auburn University, Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, LaMar Wealth Management, Prewett Pest Control and ServisFirst Bank. Their support made this signature event possible and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Auburn’s business community.

The program opened with welcome remarks from Eloise Stewart, 2025 chair of the Auburn Chamber Board of Directors, followed by an invocation from Pastor Josh Yates. Chamber President and CEO Anna Hovey welcomed guests and recognized elected officials, community partners, volunteers and Chamber investors whose support fuels the organization’s impact throughout the year.

Auburn Mayor Ron Anders delivered remarks highlighting the city’s continued growth and the importance of collaboration between the city and the business community. Hovey then shared a year in review, noting record membership retention, expanded programming and new initiatives focused on business growth, workforce development, advocacy and professional development.

A key moment of the program was an update on the Chamber’s 75 Years Strong Campaign, including progress toward the future Auburn Chamber and Community Business Center. Early fundraising efforts have positioned the campaign for success as it enters the public phase, supporting the Chamber’s long-term vision to convene partners, close workforce gaps and develop future leaders.

“We are at a pivotal moment in our organization’s history,” Hovey said. “This campaign and future facility will ensure the Auburn Chamber continues to serve as a place where partnerships become solutions and where Auburn’s momentum continues for decades to come.”

2026 Annual Award Recipients

A highlight of the morning was the presentation of the Chamber’s annual awards, recognizing excellence in business, service and community impact:

• Norm Caldwell Excellence in Industry Award — GE Aerospace
• Teague Award (Volunteer of the Year) — Crystal Russell
• Young Businessperson of the Year — Hunter Wiggins
• Diplomat of the Year — Mike Gordon
• Eagle Award (Civic Contribution) — Variations Dance Studio
• Eagle Award (Charitable Contribution) — Austin 1st Foundation
• Eagle Award (Aesthetic Contribution) — Grace Auburn Church
• Eagle Award (Aesthetic Contribution) — Tacorita
• Eagle Award (Job Opportunities/Career Pathways) — Rabren General Contractors
• Chairman’s Award — Nonet Reese
• Spirit of Auburn Award — Mathan Holt
• John Wild Hospitality Award — Kim and Brian Wirth

The John Wild Hospitality Award, introduced this year, honors the late John Wild for his lasting impact on Auburn’s hospitality and tourism industry. The inaugural award was presented to Kim and Brian Wirth in recognition of their commitment to service, community investment and creating memorable experiences through their hospitality ventures in downtown Auburn.

The Spirit of Auburn Award was presented to Mathan Holt for his decades-long dedication to fostering community through business leadership and collaboration, exemplifying the values that define the Auburn family.

The meeting concluded with the ceremonial passing of the gavel from outgoing Chair Eloise Stewart to incoming 2026 Chair David Reaves, marking a new year of leadership for the Chamber.

###

About the Auburn Chamber of Commerce
The Auburn Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization that provides resources and opportunities for both businesses and working professionals to connect and grow their businesses in Auburn, Alabama. For more information on the Auburn Chamber, visit www.auburnchamer.com and follow @auburnchamber on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.