Alex Kuz of BoatDoctor (right) was named Volunteer of the Year

Numerous individuals were recently honored by the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce at its annual awards gala.

Dale Gillmore, founder of Quest, was named the 2025 Robert T. Cashion Business Person of the Year, the Chamber’s highest individual honor. The award recognizes business leaders who demonstrate professional excellence, mentor others, and make a lasting positive impact on the community.

The Starrette Service Award, given annually to the Chamber’s Outstanding Board Member of the Year, went to Stacie Bright of Advanced Wealth Strategies. Bright was honored for her exceptional leadership, active participation, and dedication to strengthening the organization and its mission.

Alex Kuz of BoatDoctor was named Volunteer of the Year for his substantial contributions of time and effort to Chamber programs and events. His commitment and enthusiasm reflect the volunteer spirit that fuels the Chamber’s work.

Douglas Marion, founder and owner of Advanced Wealth Strategies, received the 2025 McIntosh Law Firm Passion to Succeed Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Other honorees included Dr. Linda Morris, recipient of the Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award; Pastor David Judge, awarded the John R. Cherry Community Service Award; and Barbara McCall, recognized with the Scott Hinkle Servant Leadership Award.

Wyatt Outerbridge of New York Life Insurance Company earned the Lake Norman Chamber Carbon Ambassador of the Year Award for his ongoing dedication to member engagement and relationship-building.

The Chamber also acknowledged outgoing Board members Rod Beard of Charlotte Payroll and Karen Tovar of The Tovar Group for their leadership and service advancing the organization’s goals.

The evening concluded with recognition of the Lake Norman Chamber AI Summit as Project of the Year. The award was accepted by organizers ShipTransportal President Michael Osborne, a Cornelius commissioner, and Leah Trowbridge of The McIntosh Law Firm. The summit has quickly become a flagship event, providing business leaders with actionable insights on artificial intelligence and its expanding role in marketing, workforce development, and business innovation.