Originally presented in memory of Gerald W. Hathaway, a 25-year Chamber leader known for designing innovative systems that significantly improved Chamber operations, this award honors a chamber staff professional (not a CEO) who demonstrates innovation, dedication, and significant contributions to the chamber profession.  The recipient receives a scholarship to the next W.A.C.E. Annual Conference.
Nominations can be self-submitted, or submitted by a colleague.

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2025 Recipient:  Julia Cabrera
Chino Valley (CA) Chamber

WACE Board Chair John Brewer and Past chair Kami Welch congratulate Julia Cabrera, Community Engagement Director for the Chino Valley (CA) Chamber.

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Previous Recipients (*still in chamber work)

1980 - Daniel J. McClain
1981 - Dianna Garcia
1982 - Paul Schwartz
1983 - Barbara Bicksler
1984 - Marcie Hochhauser
1985 - Charlene Shaffer
1986 - Virginia Acosta
1987 - Paula McCloskey
1988 - Rose Shuklian
1989 - Bette Jane Conte
1990 - Maggie Cox
1991 - Kathy Hayes
1992 - Tom Guarino
1993 - Janet Whaley
​1994 - Maureen DeVore

1995 - Judith Bean
1996 - Beverly Meamber
1997 - Judy Nelson*
1998 - Gina Graf
1999 - Dolores Krier
2000 - Jil Flores
2001 - Jeff Parker*
2002 - Debbie Moreno
2003 - Marlee Miller
2004 - Shaun Lumachi
2005 - Mike Varney
2006 - Donna Duperron*
2007 - Kyle Sexton
2008 - Jason Brandt
2009 - Toni Padron

2010 - Michael Faust
2011 - Jenifer Furda
2012 - Ann Hutchison*
2013 - John Osborn
2014 - Laura Nagore
2015 - Gary Brackett
2016 - Lori Banzhaf
2017 - Jeremy Harris, ACE*
2018 - Jessica Welch, ACE
2019 - Eddie Truong
2020 - Allison Walden*
2021 - Erik Williams*
2022 - Kim Medina*
2023 - Renay Sehgal Mehta*
2024 - Maren Cerimele*

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Award Overview & Criteria:

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