Spirit of Boone: 77th Annual Membership Gathering
Over 385 members of the High Country business community filled Appalachian State's Grandview Ballroom on September 24, 2026, for Spirit of Boone, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce's 77th Annual Membership Gathering.
The night centered on the Chamber's nine annual community award winners, honored in a video presentation for their career achievements and special projects. This year's honorees included North Carolina Governor Josh Stein and First Lady Anna Stein, and the Governor shared remarks with the crowd.
Outgoing Board Chair Tara Brossa introduced incoming chair Seth Sullivan, and the High Country's own Adam Church kept the night going with live music.
Spirit of Boone was presented by SkyLine/SkyBest, with additional support from Appalachian State University, Beech Mountain Resort, Highstreet Insurance & Financial Services, Emergency Restoration Xperts, Walker & Associates-Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC - Gary Moss, Graystone Lodge, Spangler Restoration, and High Country Radio.
2026 Community Award Winners and Video Presentation
Thank you to our Video Sponsor, Emergency Restoration Xperts, and video producer, Real Boone Studios, for helping us share the stories of our 2026 Community Award Winners. These nine local leaders and businesses are recognized for their professional achievements and for the way they show up for the people around them. Anyone who lives in the High Country knows the calling to give back to the region we love. This year’s video follows how each awardee answers that call, in their own way and with their own strengths.
Alfred Adams Award for Economic Development: Stick Boy Bread Company/Hatchet Coffee
Kathy Crutchfield Citizen of the Year: Dave Brewer
Sue W. Wilmoth Award for the Advancement of Tourism: NC Governor Josh Stein & First Lady Anna Stein
Ben Suttle Special Services Award: Judith Phoenix
Baker/Jones Woman of the Year: Missy Harrill
Wade Brown Award for Community Involvement: Ashemont Title
Dan Meyer Partnership Award: Howard Knob
Destination by Design, Stitch Design Shop, Watauga County, Explore Boone
Evergreen Award for Sustainability: Dr. Lynn Gibbard
Elizabeth Young Award for Community Leadership: Tasha Rountree
READ FULL ARTICLE AND MEET THE WINNERS WATA RADIO INTERVIEWS
2026 Community Award Sponsors
Photo Album
Thank you to Sydney Gail Photography!
FULL PHOTO ALBUM
Annual Report
The event also highlighted the digital release of our 2025-2026 Annual Report, showcasing key Boone Chamber highlights from the fiscal year spanning July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. The report provides insights into our Board of Directors, staff, budget, sponsors, events, year highlights, and more.
It also features progress on the full 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, developed with input from our members and community through extensive stakeholder meetings, ensuring that our work reflects the needs of the region.
Program Archive
Thank you, Corporate Table Sponsors!
For questions, contact the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce at 828-264-2225 or email Chief of Staff/VP of Events, Carrie Henderson, at carrie@boonechamber.com.