By Staff
Jenna Fribley, co-founder and principal of Campfire Collaborative Architecture & Design, was named the 2023 Business Person of the Year
The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce commemorated its 75th year of service to the community at the Inspire Excellence Annual Awards celebration held on February 8 at the Richard E. Wildish Theater in downtown Springfield. The event, which brought together esteemed members and dignitaries, showcased the rich history and vibrant future of the Chamber.
The evening began with a networking reception, where attendees quickly filled up the Wildish Theater’s stage area, resplendent with the Springfield Chamber’s freshly rebranded logo and colors. As attendees enjoyed drinks, small bites, and a live guitarist, a colorful slide presentation played in the background showcasing sponsor members and Chamber events and programs from the previous year. But by the time the stage lights went down, most were already in their seats and abuzz with anticipation.
Vonnie Mikkelsen, President and CEO of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, welcomed attendees with heartfelt remarks, emphasizing the Chamber’s enduring commitment to progress and prosperity. Mikkelsen shared highlights from the Chamber’s earliest recorded history dating back to the early 1930s and underscoring the unwavering dedication of the business community to the betterment of Springfield and surrounding areas.
“It is commerce and community that brought us together. In many ways, the Springfield Chamber has drastically changed. But, what strikes me is what remains consistent: people coming together, pooling their talents and resources with a common purpose, holistically invested in this place we call community; and with grit and determination, shaping the Springfield area we know and love.”
– Vonnie Mikkelsen, President and CEO, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce
As part of the evening’s festivities, several prestigious awards were presented to outstanding individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to the Springfield community:
2023 BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR
Jenna Fribley, co-founder and principal of Campfire Collaborative Architecture & Design, was named the 2023 Business Person of the Year for her visionary leadership and significant contributions to downtown revitalization efforts. She accepted the award from 2022 winner Celeste Wong.