Mountain West Investment Corporation Founder & President Larry Tokarski will receive the prestigious Legacy of Leadership Award at the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet on Saturday, April 18.
On Monday, March 16, we, along with some of the Mountain West team and a few of his oldest friends, surprised Larry at his office with the news of his recognition. Join us at the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet to learn more about his incredible contributions to our community over a lifetime of service and philanthropy.
Known for his long-term commitment to investing in nonprofit agencies and public and private education, Larry Tokarski has led for decades in business, philanthropy, and civic engagement, helping shape both Salem’s economic landscape and its social services infrastructure.
As the founder and president of the Mountain West Investment Corporation, Tokarski has overseen projects totaling more than $1 billion in development, including commercial properties, residential communities, and more than 30 subdivisions. His work has also extended beyond Oregon, contributing to the development of dozens of retirement communities across several western states.
Even more significant is Tokarski’s long-standing commitment to philanthropy and community service. He has supported numerous local organizations, particularly those focused on youth, senior citizens, education, and vulnerable populations. His involvement has included work with groups such as Catholic Community Services, Marion-Polk Food Share, Family Building Blocks, Chemeketa Community College Foundation, Boys & Girls Club of Marion and Polk Counties, Mount Angel Abbey, St. Francis Family Housing, Blanchet Catholic School, and Salem-Keizer Public Schools, just to name a few. Through both financial contributions and service, Tokarski has consistently worked to improve opportunities for others.
Through Mountain West, Tokarski was instrumental in the establishment of the Career Technical Education Center (CTEC), which exists as one of the premier trade education institutions for high school students in the entire nation. At CTEC, Salem-Keizer School District students are provided with the opportunity to discover their true passions, develop practical workplace skills, and move toward a rewarding career by participating in one of the school’s 10 unique industry programs, including culinary arts, auto body repair, and the recently added aviation program.
Colleagues and community members often describe Tokarski as a leader who understands the importance of giving back. His approach has been defined by a belief that business success carries with it a responsibility to invest in the broader community. Whether supporting nonprofit organizations, contributing to civic initiatives, or helping launch new community resources, he has remained actively engaged in Salem’s continued growth.
“We remain in awe of the steadfast support Larry, son Jason, the Tokarski family, and Mountain West Center for Community Excellence provide to our local nonprofit and educational organizations,” states Salem Chamber CEO Tom Hoffert. “Their contributions directly affect improved livability in Salem. Larry, simply put, is remarkable.”
Though Tokarski never seeks recognition for his philanthropic efforts, it’s important that we, as a community, honor a legacy and a lifetime of sustained impact that has changed the Salem area for the better. The impact his contributions have generated is simply immeasurable, spanning industries and decades, touching housing, economic development, journalism, and philanthropy.
As Salem continues to evolve, leaders like Larry Tokarski serve as an enduring example of how vision, commitment, and generosity can help shape a stronger and more connected community.
We cannot wait to honor Larry and for you to join us at the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet!
See below for event details and make sure to get your tickets!
75th First Citizen Awards Banquet
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Salem Convention Center
GET TICKETS: https://salemchamber.org/events/first-citizen/
Join us at the banquet to celebrate Larry, the rest of our esteemed honorees, and our incredible community.
We thank our First Citizen Awards sponsors, including Presenting Sponsors, the Mountain West Center for Community Excellence and Pioneer Trust Bank, for making this premier Salem event possible.
