Hundreds of business leaders donned masks and colorful costumes Thursday for the 88th annual Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce awards banquet at the Menominee Casino Resort in Keshena.
Nancy Schultz was recognized as the Distinguished Citizen of the Year for her efforts throughout the community. She was nominated by last year’s winner, Matty Mathison.
“This award means a lot to me and it shows that all the work that I and others have been doing in this community is truly making a difference in the lives of those living in Shawano County,” Schultz said. “It also confirms that even the smallest action can have a positive impact.”
Schultz served as secretary of Shawano Pathways, where she helped create the Safe Routes to School program, nutrition chairperson of the Healthy Shawano and Menominee County Task Force and on ThedaCare’s Community Health Action Team.
As the University of Wisconsin-Extension family living educator for Shawano County, she launched the Strong Bones program, which progressive features weight training, flexibility and balance activities for women and men of all ages.
Schultz was also involved in launching the new Shawano Area Matthew 25 organization, a homeless task force.
Schultz commended the people she has worked with in her community projects.
“I could not have achieved this award without the inspiration I have received from my colleagues,” she said. “I am grateful to have all of you as partners as we continue to move forward.”
Stacey Cicero, executive director of Safe Haven, an emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, was honored as the chamber’s Ambassador of the Year.
A former executive director of the chamber, Cicero said she enjoyed the camaraderie of the chamber’s ambassadors.
“This was an incredibly fun group of people that really enjoyed their own professional work and promoting Shawano businesses,” Cicero said.
Other award winners were Lighthouse Sports Bar and Grill, Small Business of the Year; Salon 2140, Service Business of the Year; Jill’s Pet Shoppe, Retail Business of the Year; Woodstock Hardwood Flooring and Design Center, Manufacturer of the Year.
Nancy Smith, chamber executive director, thanked the more than 400 chamber members for their support.
“Our accomplishments are made possible by our hardworking members who give their time for the greater good,” Smith said.
Wendy Crawford, program manager for Leadership Shawano County, was honored by the Shawano Area Young Professionals for helping launch the program last year with a bouquet of flowers and a gift bag coined the “Fountain of Youth.”
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