COMMUNITY AWARDS BANQUET
On February 7, 2026, the Ozark Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual Ozark Community Awards Banquet at The OC, bringing together community leaders, educators, first responders, business owners, and residents for an evening dedicated to celebrating the people who make Ozark such a special place to live and work.
With the theme “Love Your Community,” guests enjoyed an elegant evening filled with fellowship, live music from The Blinkers, complimentary beer and wine, and both silent and live auctions. Bow Creek Photography was on hand to capture the memorable moments throughout the night.
The highlight of the evening was recognizing the outstanding individuals and organizations who serve Ozark with dedication, leadership, and excellence.
Business and Chamber Honors
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Adams Funeral Home – Business of the Year
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Ashley Johnson – Chamber Star of the Year
Educators of the Year
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Kristen McGauley – Elementary Teacher
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Timaree Sorlie – Secondary Teacher
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Becky Roesch – Supporting Staff
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Dennis Faught – Leader of the Year
First Responder Honors
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Detective Dillon Johnson – Ozark Police Officer of the Year
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Firefighter David Masterson – Ozark Fire District Firefighter of the Year
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Paramedic Kaylee Semans – EMS Person of the Year
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Deputy Breanna Abney – Deputy Sheriff of the Year
The Ozark Community Awards Banquet remains one of the Chamber’s most meaningful traditions, celebrating the individuals and organizations who help our community grow, serve, and succeed.
February 8, 2025: The 2025 Ozark Community Awards Banquet, hosted by the Ozark Chamber of Commerce, honored the incredible educators, first responders, and business leaders who make our community shine.
Business & Chamber Honors:
- Heather Hill Farms – Business of the Year
- Patty Quessenberry – Chamber Star
Educators of the Year:
- Nicki Garner – Elementary Teacher
- Carole Joy Webb – Secondary Teacher
- Mary Jo Rainey & Mary Anderson – Supporting Staff
- Kent Sappington – Leader of the Year
First Responder Heroes:
- Officer Thomas Richardson – Ozark Police Officer of the Year
- Firefighter Mathew Garrison-Ozark Fire District Firefighter of the Year
- Brittany Lathan – EMS Person of the Year
- Officer Jacob Woodcock – Deputy Sheriff of the Year