The Culpeper Chamber of Commerce is inviting community members to recognize local leaders and organizations through its Annual Awards Program.
 
Nominations are now open through September 15 for seven award categories: Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year, New Business of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Young Professional of the Year, Business-Education Partnership of the Year, and the L.B. Henretty Memorial Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award.
 
According to Sarah Langland, the Chamber's events coordinator, the nomination process is open to everyone. "Chamber membership is not required to nominate or to be nominated," Langland said. "We want to ensure we're recognizing excellence across all sectors of our community."
 
Winners are selected by a diverse committee of past award recipients, chamber members, and community leaders who evaluate nominations based on merit and impact rather than the number of submissions received.
 
"We're looking for quality nominations that truly highlight the contributions and achievements of deserving individuals and organizations," Langland said.
 
Community members can submit nominations at culpeperchamber.com/awards. Those needing assistance with the nomination process can contact Langland at events@culpeperchamber.com.
 
Award winners will be honored at the Chamber's 112th Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet on November 5.