First Citizen Awards Banquet

Celebrate servant leaders in the Salem community at one of the biggest events of the year, the First Citizen Awards Banquet! Join fellow business and non-profit leaders for an evening of entertainment as we recognize the philanthropists, community leaders, and volunteers who give their time, treasure, and talent every day to make Salem a better place to live and work.

Since 1950, the Salem Chamber has honored those who exemplify servant leadership with the First Citizen Awards. These are individuals who — through their business, volunteering, and philanthropic efforts — improve the lives of those in the community by serving first. Held each spring, the First Citizen Awards Banquet recognizes individuals in the categories of Outstanding Young Professional, Distinguished Service Award, and the Salem Chamber’s highest individual honor, the First Citizen Award. See past recipients here.

74th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet

Thank you to the nearly 500 community members and guests who joined us for the 74th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet at the Salem Convention Center on March 8, 2025! We hope you join us again next year as we celebrate servant leadership in our community.

See below for a list of the 2025 honorees, our Facebook photo gallery, and the video recording of the event.

2025 Honorees:

• Gregg Peterson – Salem First Citizen
• Derek Gilbert – Distinguished Service Award
• Ronnie Brooks – Distinguished Service Award
• Andrew Holbert – Outstanding Young Professional

Photo Gallery

Video