The Tempe Chamber of Commerce announced the winners of the Business Excellence Awards, presented by Southwest Airlines, honoring the accomplishments of local businesses within the Tempe business community.

“These remarkable individuals and organizations embody the spirit of excellence and innovation that drives our economy forward,” said Colin Diaz,  Tempe Chamber president and CEO, in a press release. “Our winners represent a wide cross-section that make up a collection of large, small and mom and pop businesses.  These winners have adapted and excelled in their fields inspiring us all to contribute to the success of our business landscape.”

The following awards were presented:

• Micro Business of the Year Award – The Molecules Co.
• Small Business of the Year Award – Brick Road Coffee
• Large Business of the Year Award – Penguin Air, Plumbing & Electrical
• Spirit of Tempe Award – David Burckhard, Tempe Family YMCA
• Volunteer of the Year – Melissa Nelson, United Food Bank
• Nonprofit of the Year Award – Believe I Can Academy
• Tempe Leadership Award – Rabbanni FurQaan
  
  

Tempe Chamber Board Chair Megan Martin, from SRP, passed the gavel to the Board Chair-Elect, Suzy Greenwood of Arizona Tax Advisors.

"I am honored to serve the members of the Tempe Chamber and our community as the Board Chair," Greenwood said. "I am excited about the coming year…about continuing to work alongside our dedicated, knowledgeable, and professional board members. Together, along with the Chamber’s excellent staff, we will steer towards progress, innovation and prosperity – our vision for the Tempe business community.”