Through a formal evening event, the Gilbert Community Excellence Awards recognize outstanding contributions and achievements across various sectors, including education, business, volunteerism, and public service. Presented with key local organizations, these awards celebrate excellence and highlight the positive impact of individuals and companies within the Gilbert community. Event partners include Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, Gilbert Public Schools, and Gilbert Independent/ Independent Newsmedia, Higley Unified School District and the Town of Gilbert.   

2025 HONOREES:
 

• Spirit of Business Award:  Landings Credit Union
• Visionary Award:  Chief Michael Soelberg, Gilbert Police Department
• Leon Uhlhorn Chairman's Award:  Christie Boutain, First Western Bank

• Faculty Member of the Year:  Kimberly McGee, Program Director, Exercise Science
• Staff Member of the Year:  Russell Luce, Director of Athletics

• Beautification Award:  Water Tower Plaza, Town of Gilbert Parks & Rec
• Geneva Clay Community Volunteer Award: Lisa Abelar, For Your Record

• Dr. Walter Delecki Educator of the Year Award:  

• Mrs. Sharon Orr Support Staff of the Year Award:  Mrs. Chen, Paraprofessional, Mesquite Junior High
• Mrs. Sheila Uggetti Volunteer of the Year Award: Marisa Andrade, Vice President of Mesquite High Football Booster Club

• Educator of the Year Award :

• Support Staff of the Year Award: Ethan Haney, Paraeducator II SPED
  Higley High School
• Volunteer of the Year Award: Rita Baldwin (Grandma Rita)
  Chaparral Elementary School

• Municipal Employee of the Year:   Melanie Dykstra, Volunteer & Community Resources Manager
• Municipal Volunteer of the Year:  Steve Goldman, Gilbert PD Volunteer
• Tim Dorn Public Safety Award:  Officer Emily King, Youth Engagement Office, Gilbert PD
• Administrative Support Employee of the Year: Debbie Dana, Executive Management Assistant

When you attend this event, you enter an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. By attending, you consent to such recording media and its release, publication, exhibition, or reproduction, including but not limited to marketing, promotional purposes, publication, distribution, and public display, without further authorization or compensation. 

By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that the consumption of alcoholic beverages is entirely at your own discretion and risk. We strongly encourage all attendees to drink responsibly, adhere to local laws regarding alcohol consumption, and make appropriate transportation arrangements if needed. The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce disclaims any and all liability related to alcohol consumption, including any legal, health, or safety issues that may arise. Please drink responsibly.