Frisco Turned Out — In Record Numbers
The Frisco Chamber of Commerce hosted a record-breaking Annual Awards Celebration on February 20, 2026, at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa, welcoming 840 business and community leaders for an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence, partnership, and the strength of the Frisco business community.
The celebration honored outstanding businesses, nonprofits, and individuals whose leadership and service continue to shape Frisco’s growth and success. The event also received a record number of nominations, reflecting strong community engagement and the depth of talent across the city.
“This year’s Annual Awards Celebration was nothing short of inspiring,” shared Christal Howard, President/CEO of the Frisco Chamber of Commerce. “With a record number of attendees and more nominations than ever before, the evening reflects the strength of the Frisco business community and the incredible leaders and partners who make our city so special. It’s a powerful reminder that Frisco’s momentum is driven by the people and organizations committed to its future.”
Celebrating Those Who Move Frisco Forward
Texas Health Hospital Frisco was the presenting sponsor for the event. “We are grateful to serve once again as the presenting sponsor of the Frisco Chamber Annual Awards Celebration,” said Tiffany Northern, President of Texas Health Hospital Frisco. “For six years, Texas Health Hospital Frisco has been privileged to support this growing community with advanced care close to home. This event allows us to celebrate the innovators, leaders, and organizations who continue to move Frisco forward.”
More Than a Photo
In addition to honoring award recipients, the Frisco Chamber unveiled a meaningful new legacy piece tied to its future home. Guests participated in a photo booth experience that will become part of a large-scale mosaic installation set to hang in the Frisco Chamber’s newly purchased space as its first official piece of art. “As we prepare to move into our new space, it felt only fitting that the first piece of art would reflect the very heart of our community – our people,” Howard said.
A Look Back and a Look Ahead
In a video created for the event, Barbara Milo, 2025 Frisco Chamber Board Chair and Frisco Chamber Foundation Chair, reflected on the year’s accomplishments and the foundation built for the future. “The true strength of the Frisco Chamber isn’t found in any single program or event: it’s found in our people, our partnerships, and our shared commitment to building something stronger together,” Milo said.
Looking ahead, 2026 Board Chair Ryan Gebhart emphasized the continued momentum. “I’m energized by the momentum we’re carrying forward and the opportunities in front of us. With clear strategic pillars guiding our work and a new Frisco Chamber home on the horizon, we move into the year with clarity and purpose, ready to strengthen our business ecosystem, develop talent, and continue building a connected, future-focused Frisco together,” Gebhart said.
From record attendance to record nominations, the 2026 Annual Awards Celebration underscored the collaborative spirit that defines Frisco. As the Frisco Chamber prepares to move into its new home in mid-2026, the evening served not only as a celebration of achievement but also as a reminder that the city’s continued success is built on connection, leadership, and a shared commitment to building something stronger together.
2025 Business Award Winners
Selected by a peer selection committee
- Ambassador of the Year: Rebecca Landry, Quality Travel
- Frisco Chamber Volunteer of the Year: Jenny Katlein, CoServ, Chair of Frisco Young Professionals
- Community Champion: Donna Schmittler, Community Volunteer
- Corporate Community Champion: Frisco Economic Development Corporation
- Employee of the Year: Adrian Ramos, Donatos Pizza Frisco
- Executive Leader of the Year: Dr. Mike Waldrip, Superintendent of Frisco ISD
- Entrepreneur of the Year: Ann Anderson, Ann Anderson Insurance Agency
- Employer of the Year: TIAA
- Nonprofit of the Year: Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County
- Business Excellence: Scottish Rite for Children
- Business Excellence: Earnest B’s BBQ
2025 Citizen Award Winners
Selected by past Citizen Award recipients
- Citizen of the Year: Shanna Keaveny
- Spirit of Frisco: Megan Nguyen
- Legacy Award: Henry J. Hill, newly retired Deputy City Manager for the City of Frisco
- Special Recognition: Frisco Rail District
2025 Chair's Award
Karen Cunningham for her exceptional governance leadership in examining, strengthening, and enhancing the bylaws of both the Frisco Chamber of Commerce and the Frisco Chamber Foundation.
2025 President's Award
Chad Sterling – Past-Chair of the Frisco Chamber Board of Directors and Chair of the Frisco Chamber Building Committee, for his tireless leadership and dedication in guiding the Frisco Chamber’s new building purchase to the finish line through countless meetings and careful stewardship.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
More to Celebrate
2025 Annual Report
If the Annual Awards Celebration inspired you, we invite you to explore the full story of what your Frisco Chamber accomplished this past year. From strategic pillars to leadership development and community initiatives, the momentum continues. View the 2025 Annual Report.
