Congratulations to Our Winners!

The 27th Annual Chamber Awards Dinner was held June 13, 2025 at Shadow Wood Country Club.

Highlighting the evening was a keynote address by Steve Shur, Vice President Government Affairs at Hertz Corporation.

The event recognized local leaders who were nominated by and voted for by their peers in multiple categories. In addition, the Leadership Estero graduating class graduated, and the 2025-2026 Board of Directors was sworn in by the Honorable John S. Carlin, Lee County Circuit Judge.

The Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce extends a huge thanks to all those who participated, from nominating awardees, to attending, to helping make the magic happen!

Small Business Excellence Award:
Royal Scoop

With a motto like “Life’s Short, Eat Dessert First,” this beloved local business has been a sweet part of our community since 1979. Known not only for its delicious, homemade ice cream but also for its generous spirit, it proudly supports students from Estero High and FGCU, mentoring the next generation of business leaders. Always ready to step up for the Chamber and the community, this year’s award goes to Royal Scoop.

Large Business Excellence Award: Florida Gulf Coast University

Let’s hear it for the hometown team that’s shaping the future of Southwest Florida one Eagle at a time. As a regional comprehensive university, FGCU works hand-in-hand with local businesses and community leaders to make sure their graduates are ready to take on the workforce. More than half of their alumni stay right here in Southwest Florida, and one in five has started their own business. Chances are you’ve either hired an Eagle or are one yourself. Justin Fitzgerald accepted on behalf of the University.

Nonprofit of the Year Award: Arts Bonita

Whether it’s performances that wow, classes that inspire, or workshops that spark new passions, Arts Bonita is all about making the arts accessible for everyone—from kids at summer camp to adults discovering a new creative outlet. Their top-notch, affordable programming doesn’t just entertain, it builds community, boosts local business, and lifts spirits. With scholarships available and a warm welcome for all, they prove that art truly brings us together.

Volunteer of the Year Award: Blake Chapman, State Insurance USA

This year’s Volunteer of the Year has poured passion, energy, and heart into one of Estero’s biggest community highlights: EsteroFest. Thanks to his leadership, it’s become a signature event that brings our residents and local businesses together in a big way. He also just finished his term of the chamber board and owns State Insurance USA. As if he wasn’t busy enough, Blake and his wife, Lisa, are raising five children! His personal motto says it all: live to love, serve, give, and forgive.

Young Professional of the Year Award: Joseph Brauer of Arts Bonita

As the Artistic Director at Arts Bonita, Joseph has taken the youth theatre program to the next level with year-round productions, professional-level training for young performers, and a whole lot of heart. Along the way, he is building confidence, community, and a love for the arts in young children and teens. (Note: he wasn't present to receive the award because he was running a show!)

Person of the Year Award: Cliff Brand of LMCU and GECC Chamber

There is no denying the dedication, leadership, and vision brought to the chamber by Cliff. He jumped in the deep end of the pool about a year ago, planning our annual golf outing, stepping into the treasurer position on the board and signing up to participate in Leadership Estero. Cliff has rolled up his sleeves and jumped into key initiatives to grow membership and strengthen our foundation. Cliff has been all-in—building strong community connections, boosting engagement at major events, and driving a surge in sponsorship interest. His efforts have set the stage for an exciting and successful future for the Chamber.

Leadership Alum of the Year Award: Sharon Van Rite of Platinum Media

With boundless energy and a deep commitment to giving back, Sharon continues to make a lasting impact both within the Chamber and throughout the community. Balancing her own business with an unwavering dedication to volunteerism, she leads with grace, professionalism, and a spirit of selfless service. She leads with the mindset that she will find a way to get it all done! Her compassion, positivity, and tireless support of this program elevates everyone around her, and we are so lucky to be part of her tribe.

2024-2025 Leadership Estero Graduates

Victor M. Arias, Arias Law Firm
Meghan Barnes, Wegman Design Group
Cliff Brand, LMCU
Dr. Drew-Montez Clark, Breakthrough Health Center
David Dore-Smith, BLUE Landscape & Outdoor Solutions
Lisa Luster, Shadow Wood Community Association
Donna Marcotte, Premier Sotheby's International Realty
Heather Myers, Lee Health Coconut Point
Suzanna Anstine Norbeck, Mediators Beyond Borders
Joanne Ribble, The Village of Estero
Tami Reynolds, Estero Elite Realty
Jamie Wilson, Florida Gulf Coast University