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2026 Excellence in Service Awards

January 29, 2026 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM (CST)

Description


2026 Excellence in Service Awards

A thriving community is built through the dedication of individuals and businesses that prioritize meaningful connections and service. Their efforts enrich the place we call home. We will be celebrating this year's recipients at the Excellence in Service Awards on January 29, 2026 at the Pequot Lakes American Legion Post #49 from 5:30PM-9PM.



Nominations Are Open

It’s time to celebrate the people and organizations who make Pequot Lakes an incredible place to live, work, and play! Your nomination will help us recognize outstanding individuals, businesses, and nonprofits through the Pequot Lakes Chamber Excellence in Service Awards.


School Staff of the Year
(Sponsored by Old National Bank)
Honoring a staff member who radiates positivity, promotes Patriot Pride, and helps make our school district a success for students, staff, and the community.

Past Award Recipients:
2023 - Nancy Ryan, 2024 - Joanna O'Neil, 2025 - Jordan Goebel


Citizen of the Year
(Sponsored by Community Action of Pequot Lakes)
Recognizing a community member whose dedication and pride make Pequot Lakes a better place to call home.

Past Award Recipients:
2023 - Tyler Gardner, 2024 - Mark Jurchen, 2025 - Nancy Adams


Nonprofit of the Year
(Sponsored by Essentia Health Brainerd Lakes)
Celebrating a nonprofit that goes above and beyond to serve others, creating lasting impact through programs, partnerships, and community involvement.


Employee of the Year
(Sponsored by Pequot Manufacturing) 
Highlighting an employee who demonstrates exceptional service, professionalism, and community spirit.

 

Past Award Recipients:
2023 - Shari Monahan, 2024 - Dave Wonders, 2025 - Scott Franke


Business of the Year
(Sponsored by Jackie Karlson, Associate Broker - Positive Realty)
Honoring a business that invests in our community through job creation, local partnerships, and participation in local events and activities.

Past Award Recipients:
2023 - Lonesome Cottage Furniture Company, 2024 - Pequot Lakes Dairy Queen, 2025 - Tasty Pizza North



Become a Sponsor

Help us recognize those deserving individuals in our community by becoming a sponsor! Receive the following benefits with each sponsorship opportunity listed below:

TABLE SPONSOR BENEFITS:

  • Reserved Table and Dinner for 6 Guests ($360 Value)
  • Event Recognition: Business logo and name included with social hour slideshow and displayed at event.
  • Social Media Recognition: Business highlighted and thanked in social media posts.



Register to Attend

Join us for an unforgettable evening of camaraderie, celebration, and community pride as we honor the outstanding individuals, businesses, and organizations who make Pequot Lakes such a special place. The 2026 Excellence in Service Awards will shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to enrich our community, and we’d love for you to be part of it!

Seating is limited, so be sure to RSVP today to reserve your spot! Don’t miss this chance to celebrate what makes Pequot Lakes exceptional.

Buy a whole table and sit with your colleagues and friends ($500) 

  • Reserved Table and Dinner for 6 Guests:
  • Event Recognition: Business logo and name included with social hour slideshow and displayed at event.
  • Social Media Recognition: Business highlighted and thanked in social media posts.

Individual tickets still available ($60): Individual seat at a table for 6 with dinner

Meal choices are: 

  • Pecan Chicken, Baked Potato, Vegetable Medley
  • Roasted Tenderloin of Beef, Baked Potato, Vegetable Medley
  • Fettuccine Alfredo

All meals served with Salad, Dinner Rolls and Dessert

Dress in business to cocktail attire:
Guests are welcome to choose attire that feels comfortable yet celebratory. Men may wear polo shirts with slacks, dress shirts with jackets. Women may wear dresses, skirts, blouses, slacks or dressy jumpsuits.

Registration Deadline: Monday, January 12, 2026


Time

Social Hour Sponsored by TDS: 5:30PM-6:30PM
Dinner: 6:30PM
Awards to follow dinner

View Event

Contact Information

Pequot Lakes Chamber of Commerce
Name: Nichole Heinen
Phone: (218) 822-7128
Email: nichole@explorebrainerdlakes.com
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