The Dayton Chamber of Commerce marked a significant milestone on Saturday, Feb. 15, celebrating its 25th anniversary with an elegant awards gala at the Dayton Community Center. The event recognized the contributions of local businesses, ambassadors, and community leaders who have played a vital role in the city’s growth and success.
Chamber Board Chairman Sherri Schmidt and Chamber Director Sean Stockard led the evening’s festivities, announcing the honorees. This year’s gala was made possible through presenting sponsors Entergy Texas and Angel Lagoon.
The first award of the night, Service Business of the Year, was presented to JLA Realty. Schmidt described the company as one that “excels in service, community involvement, and consistently delivers exceptional service. Where there is a need, you’ll find them there.”
Next, the Retail Business of the Year award went to Tuscany Italian Restaurant. Schmidt praised the restaurant for its commitment to creating memorable dining experiences while actively engaging with and supporting local community events.
“They encourage employees to participate in the community as well, making a meaningful impact beyond their business,” she added.
The Chamber’s Ambassador of the Year award was given to Susan Simmons, recognized for her enthusiastic and professional representation of both the Chamber and the community. Simmons, who is highly involved in the Dayton Enhancement Committee, was lauded for her unwavering dedication.
“She represents not only the Chamber but also our community, and she does it with grace, enthusiasm, and professionalism. She’s a true joy to work with,” Schmidt said.
The Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Alicia Dale of JLA Realty, in recognition of her exceptional service to both the Chamber and the Dayton community.
“This volunteer consistently goes above and beyond in serving the Chamber of Commerce and the community. She participates in the Chamber events and devotes time and energy without expecting anything in return,” Schmidt noted.
One of the evening’s most prestigious honors, the Chairman’s Award, was presented to John Gable of Jelly IT. This award recognizes an individual whose dedication to business and community enhances the quality of life for residents.
“The person I chose exemplifies these qualities,” Schmidt shared. “His authenticity and integrity are unmatched, and success will always find him. I think this person is amazing, and he’s just going to grow in our community—and the rest of us with him.”
The Chamber’s highest honor, the Hall of Fame Award, was awarded to Drs. John and Jessica Johnson, longtime educators in the Dayton community. Jessica Johnson is the Dayton ISD superintendent and will retire at the end of this school year. Schmidt emphasized the couple’s remarkable contributions, stating:
“This year’s Hall of Fame Award is not being presented to just one person, but to a remarkable married couple whose partnership in life is matched by their partnership in service. For years, this couple has exemplified the true spirit of citizenship through their unwavering commitment to volunteerism, their leadership in community initiatives, and their generosity in supporting causes that uplift those in need. Whether it’s through involvement in local charities, their church, mentorship programs, or civic organizations, this couple has touched countless lives and left an indelible mark on our community,” she said.
“Beyond their professional and personal accomplishments, what makes them truly special is the kindness, compassion, and humility with which they serve. They don’t seek recognition or accolades, but rather they give because they believe in the power of community and the importance of lifting others up,” Schmidt said.
The evening also featured a look back at the Chamber’s history, with three speakers sharing insights from the past: Brooks Hiller, Alan D. Conner, and Lester Ray Wisegerber. Wisegerber, who served as the Chamber’s president in its earliest days, reflected on its humble beginnings and growth over the years.
As the discussion honored the past, Sean Stockard turned the focus toward the future, announcing a significant change: in the coming weeks, the Chamber will undergo a name change to better represent both the Dayton and Liberty communities.
This transition has been in the works for some time. In October 2024, city leaders from both Liberty and Dayton signed resolutions in support of merging into a single regional Chamber of Commerce. Liberty’s former chamber was dissolved in 2022, paving the way for this new partnership. The newly unified Chamber aims to strengthen business opportunities and collaboration across both communities.