Batesville Chamber celebrates, hands out awards at Annual Dinner

(Pictured from left to right) Jim and Maureen Saner (Volunteers of the Year); Jill Hollins (Educator of the Year); George Junker (Distinguished Service Award), and Kristine Beal, Jamie Nobbe, and Paulette Varble on behalf So Loved Kids Clothing Closet (Organization of the Year). (WRBI Photo)

(Batesville, IN) – The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce handed out the hardware at its Annual Awards Dinner Thursday night at The Knights of Columbus Hall.

The theme of the event was “Celebrate a Night Full of Stars.”

After a welcome and introductions from Executive Director Melissa Tucker, Chamber Board President Sonja White, and a special presentation and recognition of the D.I.C.E. Challenge by Genesis: Pathways to Success and Chamber Board member Clarice Patterson , dinner was served and awards were presented.

So Loved Kids Clothing Closet was named Organization of the Year.

George Junker received the Distinguished Service Award

St. Louis Catholic School STEM teacher Jill Hollins was named Educator of the Year.

And the Volunteers of the Year are Jim and Maureen Saner.

Outgoing Chamber Board Member Matt Tarkington was thanked for his years of service.

The Batesville Chamber welcomed 47 new members last year.

Also in 2023, the Chamber sold $100,000 in gift certificates; $106,000 was spent at local businesses through the Chamber’s Holiday Passport Promotion, and $37,000 was spent at local businesses through the Chamber’s “Christmas in July” initiative.

For more information about the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.batesvillein.com.