First Citizen Awards Banquet

Since 1950, the Salem Chamber has honored those who exemplify servant leadership. These are individuals who, through their business, volunteering, and philanthropic efforts, improve the lives of those in the community by serving first.

The First Citizen Awards Banquet recognizes individuals in the categories of Outstanding Young Professional, Distinguished Service Award, Nonprofit Leadership Award, and First Citizen. These men and women do remarkable things to make our community a better place and are examples of what happens when ordinary people act. It is a night that is both humbling and inspiring.

75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet

On Saturday, April 18, 2026, nearly 600 members of the Salem community gathered to celebrate servant leadership at the Salem Convention Center for the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet!

This milestone celebration recognized six individuals, including one dynamic couple, for their service work in our community.

See below for a list of the 2026 honorees, our Facebook photo gallery, and the video recording of the event.

2026 Honorees:

• Laura & Dan Dorn – First Citizen
• Larry Tokarski – Legacy of Leadership Award
• Carlee Wright – Distinguished Service Award
• Alex Ferry – Outstanding Young Professional
• Tony Frazier – Nonprofit Leadership Award

Photo Gallery

Video