JOIN THE CHAMBER
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
EVENTS CALENDAR
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated leadership, innovation and community impact during its 2026 Annual Meeting in April, recognizing businesses and individuals making a difference across the Grand Strand.
The annual awards program honored organizations and leaders representing a wide range of industries and missions, from tourism and small business to nonprofit service and community leadership.
This year’s award winners included:
- Ann DeBock Leadership Award: James McIlrath
- Ambassador of the Year, presented by Selena Witherspoon: Heather Williams
- Chamber Volunteer of the Year, presented by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina: Andy Wolfe
- Community Impact Award, presented by The Soto Sawyer Crosby Group at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management: SOS Care
- Young Professional of the Year, presented by TD Bank: Sean Bailey
- Entrepreneur of the Year, presented by Truist: Donna Brin of bFIVE40
- Nonprofit of the Year, presented by United Bank: New Directions of Horry County
- Tourism Partner of the Year, presented by Best Western Ocean Sands: The Carolina Opry
- Small Business of the Year, presented by My Horry News: PAR Physical Therapy
- Business of the Year, presented by OrthoSC: Horry-Georgetown Technical College
- Brad Dean Chairman’s Award of Excellence, presented by HTC: John Rutenberg
- Citizen of the Year, presented by A&I Fire & Water Restoration: Marilyn Hatley
- Ashby Ward Pioneer of the Year, presented by Carolina Cool: Sidney Thompson
The awards highlighted the strength and momentum of the Grand Strand business community and the individuals working every day to improve the region through leadership, service and collaboration.
From entrepreneurs driving innovation and nonprofits supporting vulnerable populations to tourism partners creating memorable visitor experiences, the honorees reflected the diverse contributions that continue shaping the Myrtle Beach area.
Several recipients were recognized not only for professional success, but also for their long-term investment in the community through volunteerism, workforce development, education and public service.
The Annual Meeting brought together business leaders, elected officials, nonprofit organizations and community stakeholders to celebrate progress and recognize those helping move the Grand Strand forward.
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce congratulates all finalists and winners and thanks them for their continued impact on the region.