We want to take time to recognize and congratulate this year's CPO award winners. The winners were honored at the Awards Dinner during the 2025 Winter Conference held on January 27-29 at the Hilton Columbus - Easton. We had an outstanding group of chamber professionals honored. Congratulations to everyone!

Outstanding Chamber of the Year (Over 600 Members)

🏆 Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce

For 56 years, the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce has demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, and a commitment to strategic growth. With a dedicated team of six staff members and a 21-member Board of Trustees, the Chamber successfully delivers over 40 high-impact programs annually, enriching both its members and the greater Westerville community.

Notable Initiatives:

• Westerville Area Young Leaders' Network – Facilitating speed networking and community outreach.
• Business Inclusion and Opportunities Council – Empowering multicultural business owners.
• Women in Business Network – Creating a collaborative learning space for women professionals.
• Small Office Home Office Network – Providing essential resources for small business owners.
• Business Advocacy Council – Championing pro-business legislation.

In 2024, the Chamber achieved an 88% membership retention rate and welcomed 157 new members, reinforcing its commitment to growth and sustainability. This excellence in leadership and fiscal responsibility earns the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce the esteemed 2024 Outstanding Chamber of the Year (Over 600 Members) Award.

Outstanding Chamber of the Year (Less than 600 Members)

🏆 Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce

With an extraordinary 170% membership increase from 2023 to 2024, the Pickerington Area Chamber has experienced unprecedented growth, revitalizing its investor-level memberships and reintroducing its Ambassadors program.

Key Initiatives:

• Wednesday Connects Networking – Providing a platform for business pitches, referrals, and problem-solving.
• Women’s Leadership Coalition – Hosting monthly speakers to inspire and educate.
• Quarterly After Hours Networking – Strengthening regional business relationships.
• Networking with Neighbors – Fostering innovative partnerships.
• Business Academy & Annual Business Summit – Offering professional development opportunities.

Financially, the Chamber has flourished, achieving a 671% increase in net income and a 162% surge in event revenue. With a clear vision and a commitment to business success, the Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce proudly earns the 2024 Outstanding Chamber of the Year Award (Less than 600 Members).

Michael A. Schultz Professional of the Year

🏅 Bryce Riggs,  Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce

Since 2020, Bryce Riggs has led the Seneca Chamber to remarkable growth, increasing membership by 69% and achieving a 94% retention rate. Under his leadership, revenue has risen by 138%, and non-dues revenue has expanded by 180%. Now serving as Interim President & CEO of the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership, Bryce continues to shape regional economic development.

🏅 Kathi Roetter,  Executive Director,   Troy Area Chamber of Commerce

As Executive Director since 2014, Kathi has spearheaded a 53% increase in membership and expanded Chamber assets from $505K to $861K. Despite personal health challenges, she has remained a steadfast leader, overseeing the relocation of the Strawberry Festival downtown, attracting over 150,000 attendees. Her resilience and impact make her a deserving recipient of this award.

Lifetime Legacy Award

🏆 John Sobolewski,  Executive Director - West Shore Chamber of Commerce

With 39 years of service, John has led multiple chambers and founded The Power of More, a nine-chamber collaboration, fostering business advocacy and growth across Northern Ohio. John retired in December of 2024 and will now spend much more time with his wife and family at their vacation home in Port Clinton, OH.

🏆 Jed Metzger,  President & CEO - Lima-Allen County Chamber of Commerce

Jed has been instrumental in Lima’s economic advancement for over two decades. Jed retired in December of 2024 after 25 years of service as President & CEO. He is transitioning into his new role within the Lima Area Chamber Foundation.

🏆 Jeff Raible,  President - Sidney-Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

With 21 years as chamber president, Jeff has championed initiatives like Discover Shelby County Ohio magazine and Chamber Expo, leaving a lasting impact on Shelby County’s business landscape. Jeff retired from the Sidney-Shelby County Chamber at the end of 2024 and is now the director of the Sidney Visitors Bureau.

Outgoing Board Chair (2024-2025)

• Travis Markwood, President & CEO, Lancaster Fairfield County Chamber of Commerce

Outgoing Board Members Recognition

🙏 Thank you for your service:

• Rick Pearce, Chamber of Commerce serving Middletown, Monroe & Trenton
• Scott Robinson, Tuscarawas County Chamber of Commerce
• Dana Matz, Zanesville-Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce