BOWLING GREEN, KY., April 2, 2026 – The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Title Sponsor, Pinnacle Financial Partners and Spotlight Sponsor, ELPO Law, is proud to announce the nominees for the 2026 Excellence Awards, celebrating the leaders, businesses, and nonprofits whose dedication continues to shape and strengthen South Central Kentucky.
Each year, the Excellence Awards serve as more than a celebration. They are a moment to pause and recognize the individuals and organizations who give of themselves to make Bowling Green the best it can be. These nominees represent the very best of us. Their impact is felt not only in business growth, but in the strength, spirit, and future of our region.
Please join us as we celebrate this year’s nominees:
2026 ATHENA Leadership Nominees (Sponsored by Martin Dodge Jeep Chrysler RAM)
- Janel Doyle, Shop at Home Carpets
- Sherryl Reed, Graves Gilbert Clinic
- Lindsey Sanson, American Bank & Trust
- Lisa Whitney, Atmos Energy
- Dr. Tracey Young, Warren County Public Schools
2026 ATHENA Young Professional Nominees (Sponsored by Martin Dodge Jeep Chrysler RAM)
- Kayla Bitner, Sublime Media Group
- Lydia Gilliam, Houchens Insurance Group
- Olivia Hester, Morgan & Morgan
- Hillary Rickel, BBG Events
- Kendall Roper, Edward Jones Investments
- Katie Tabor, Foreman Watson Land Title
- Abby Thomas, Franklin Bank & Trust
- Cierra Waller, Western Kentucky University
- Ashlee Wilson Quinn, WNKY News 40
2026 Minority and/or Woman Owned Business of the Year Nominees (Sponsored by Gerald Printing)
- Eden Title & Escrow
- Portales Building & Remodeling
- Taqueria Los Vasquez
- Three Springs Hospitality Management
- Zimmerman Interiors
2026 Small Business Person of the Year Nominees (Sponsored by German American Bank)
- Denton Cable, On Target Cleaning & Restoration
- Cory Gearlds, RENEW by Optimum Rejuvenation
- Kevin Kirby, J.C. Kirby & Son Funeral Chapels & Crematory
- Sam Kirby, Vid Monster Productions
- Quintin Littrell, Sunbelt Construction
2026 Nonprofit of the Year Nominees (Sponsored by The Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky)
- Glory Baby Ministry
- HOTEL INC
- House on the Hill
- Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky
- Kentucky Small Business Development Center
- Refuge Bowling Green
- St. Teresa Ministries and Thrift Store
- The Center for Courageous Kids
“Each year, the Excellence Awards shine a light on the individuals and organizations whose work strengthens our region in meaningful ways,” said Meredith Wilson, Interim President & CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. “These nominees are innovators, mentors, and community champions, and their contributions continue to move South Central Kentucky forward.”
The 2026 Excellence Awards Luncheon will be held on May 12, 2026, as part of Small Business Appreciation Month, bringing together leaders from across the region to honor excellence and celebrate the collective impact of our business and nonprofit community.
“The stories behind these nominations are powerful reminders of what makes this community so special,” said Roddy Grimes, Board Chair of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. “Across South Central Kentucky, we’re fortunate to have individuals who lead with purpose, serve selflessly, and lift others along the way. It is truly an honor to recognize their contributions and celebrate the meaningful impact they continue to make in our region.”
The Chamber extends special thanks to the Excellence Awards sponsors:
- Title Sponsor: Pinnacle Financial Partners
- Presenting Sponsor: ELPO Law
- ATHENA and ATHENA Young Professional Sponsor: Martin Dodge Jeep Chrysler RAM
- Small Business Person of the Year Sponsor: German American Bank
- Minority and/or Woman Owned Business of the Year Sponsor: Gerald Printing
- Nonprofit of the Year Sponsor: The Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky
- Community Sponsors: Arnold Consulting Engineering Services, Inc., Banterra Bank, Bowling Green Municipal Utilities, CROWN Cork & Seal
About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce:
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is a 5-Star Accredited Chamber by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. As the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,300 partners and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. Its primary goals are to promote growth and success in the business community, reaching its small business partners and those in large industries alike. With leadership programs, governmental relations projects, educational initiatives and involvement opportunities, the Chamber aims to support the community and its neighbors in order to enhance the business climate and continue to grow the region. For more details please visit www.bgchamber.com/.