By Aila Boyd
The Salem Civic Center hosted more than 200 attendees March 18 for the 2026 Awards Breakfast, one of the largest gatherings to date for the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce.
The annual event recognized businesses, organizations and individuals across Salem and Roanoke County for their contributions in 2025, highlighting achievements ranging from small business growth to community service and public safety.
“This year’s Annual Business Awards and Networking Breakfast was truly special — with a record turnout of more than 220 attendees, the energy in the room reflected the incredible spirit of our community,” said Amanda Livingston, president of the chamber. “We were proud to recognize excellence across 12 business categories, honor the dedicated police and first responders who serve both Roanoke County and Salem, and celebrate our outstanding Volunteer of the Year and Citizen of the Year.”
Livingston also noted that the event featured business spotlights from Katie Smith, business development manager for Branch Group, and Jerry Adams, general manager of Steel Dynamics.
“This gathering is one of the highlights of our year, and it’s a privilege to shine a spotlight on the people and organizations who make our community thrive,” Livingston said, adding appreciation for title sponsor Wheeler Media Solutions.
Award recipients included:
• Salem Large Business: Salem Montessori School
• Roanoke County Large Business: Grand Home Furnishings
• Salem Small Business: Salem Golf Simulator
• Roanoke County Small Business: Salem Animal Hospital
• Nonprofit: HopeTree Family Services
• Franchise: Express Employment Professionals
• Manufacturer: Medeco Assa Abloy
• Salem New Business: Valleydale Apartments
• Roanoke County New Business: Align Neurology
• Service: Feeding SWVA
Individual honors were also presented. Carey Harveycutter was named Citizen of the Year, and Tullio O’Reilly was recognized as Volunteer of the Year.
Public safety awards went to Brendan Carroll for Salem Police, Natalie Maxey for Roanoke County Police, Andrew St. Clair as Salem First Responder, and Caitlin Ward as Roanoke County First Responder.
The breakfast serves as a key annual event for the chamber, bringing together business and community leaders to celebrate achievements and strengthen regional connections.
