Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Hosts 68th Annual Dinner & Citizen of the Year Presentation

 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Hosts 68th Annual Dinner & Citizen of the Year Presentation
 
HOWELL – The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted its 68th Annual Dinner & Citizen of the Year Presentation on January 24th at Horsefeathers Kitchen & Cocktails and The Reserve Event Center. This prestigious event recognized outstanding community leaders and achievements while spotlighting key Chamber programs and initiatives. The evening’s theme, “Fueled by Passion, Driven by Purpose,” encapsulated the spirit of the community and its shared aspirations for the future.
The theme celebrated past accomplishments, the incredible individuals and businesses shaping the community today, and the bold goals guiding the Chamber into 2025, its 76th year. The evening began with an inspiring keynote address from Jacob Brown, a former NFL athlete turned transformational speaker, author, and entrepreneur. Brown shared his powerful message, “Failure into Fuel,” challenging attendees to embrace their setbacks, collaborate with others, and surround themselves with those who ignite their passion and propel them toward success.
Howell Chamber President Janelle Smith emphasized the importance of the night’s celebration, stating:
“We’re thrilled to bring together our members, businesses, and community leaders to honor this year’s Annual Award recipients and reveal our Citizen of the Year. As we conclude tonight’s celebration, let us carry forward the spirit that unites us—a community fueled by passion and driven by purpose. When we dream big and act boldly, the results will follow. Together, we can turn aspirations into achievements and leave a lasting impact. Keep fueling your passion, pursuing your purpose, and building an extraordinary future.”

 
Honoring Excellence
The Chamber celebrated this year’s nominees and award recipients:
Rick Scofield Business of the Year Nominees

• Matt and Andrea Dahline, Crosswinds Aviation
• David Yancho & Ryan Gingery, Armor Protective Packaging
• David and Barbara Walker, Hartland Insurance

Community Engagement and Philanthropy Award Nominees

• Community Catalysts, Eileen Zilch
• Heather Aeschliman, Howell Rotarian
• Bank of Ann Arbor, Patti Griffith and Martin Smith

Employee Engagement Innovator Award Nominees

• MS Ultrasonic, Timo Steimer
• First Impressions Print & Marketing, Don and Sandie Cortez
• Work Skills Corporation, Tina Jackson

Through a live voting process at the event, attendees selected the award winners:

• Rick Scofield Business of the Year: Matt and Andrea Dahline, Crosswinds Aviation
• Community Engagement and Philanthropy Award: Heather Aeschliman, Howell Rotarian
• Employee Engagement Innovator Award: Work Skills Corporation, Tina Jackson

 
Citizen of the Year Award
The night’s most anticipated moment was the announcement of the 2024 Citizen of the Year, a recognition kept confidential until the event. This year’s recipient, Dr. Hank Vaupel, exemplifies dedication to community service. Dr. Vaupel’s remarkable journey includes roles as a veterinarian, MSU professor, Army Captain, Michigan State Representative, philanthropic board member, and volunteer dishwasher at Torch 180.
Humbly accepting the award, Dr. Vaupel credited the leaders, collaborative spirit, and faith that define the Howell community. He also thanked his wife, who graciously shared their 54th wedding anniversary to celebrate this milestone.

Presenting Sponsors
The 68th Annual Dinner & Citizen of the Year Presentation was proudly presented by Brighton Ford and Trinity Health.