 City of Covington wins 2025 Business Excellence Award. Photo courtesy of Pooja Anoop Photography. COVINGTON, Wash. (March 31, 2026) — The Covington Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the outstanding achievements of local businesses, organizations and community leaders at the Night-at-the-Museum themed 2025 Covington Chamber Business Excellence Awards on March 25. The annual event brought together members and guests for an inspiring evening, recognizing those who are making a meaningful impact across the Covington business community. This year’s awards highlighted excellence in leadership, entrepreneurship, volunteerism, economic impact and community service. With dozens of nominations, the awards reflect the strength, collaboration and innovation that define the Covington business community. Rising Star Award The Rising Star Award celebrates a new Covington Chamber member who immediately jumped in with enthusiasm and purpose. Their leadership, involvement, and passion for making a difference truly reflect the spirit of a rising star. Winner: British Swim School – Renton-Covington Finalist: Happy Lemon Covington Other Nominees:
Entrepreneur of the Year Award This award recognizes a standout Covington area business that exemplifies innovation, leadership and engagement. With a strong entrepreneurial mindset and active chamber involvement, the recipient makes a lasting impact on the local business community. Winner: Stephanie Hunziker, Hunziker Real Estate Finalist: Diana Patterson, The Patterson Team Other Nominees:
Chamber Volunteer of the Year This award honors an individual whose time, energy, and leadership help strengthen the Covington Chamber. This volunteer consistently steps up to support members, build connections and advance the chamber’s mission. Winner: Daman Khatra Finalist: Dr. Wade Barringer, Kent School District Other Nominees:
Covington Economic Impact Award The Covington Economic Impact Award honors significant contributions to economic growth in the greater Covington area. Through innovation and collaboration, the recipient strengthens the local economy and improves the business climate. Winner: Regan Bolli, City Manager, City of Covington Finalist: Josh Lyons, Pinnacle Wellness & Lifestyle Medicine Other Nominees:
Business Excellence Award The Business Excellence award honors a member business that exemplifies workplace excellence through a strong, people-centered culture. By valuing employees, supporting professional growth, and fostering engagement, this business sets a high standard for leadership, performance and community impact. Winner: City of Covington, Washington Finalist: Weatherly Inn of Lake Meridian Other Nominees:
Nonprofit Excellence Award The Nonprofit Excellence Award honors a nonprofit whose dedication and service strengthen the greater Covington community. Through impactful programs, outreach, and charitable efforts, this organization improves lives and inspires positive change. Winner: The Storehouse Finalist: Vine Maple Place Nominees:
Jeff Wagner Community Champion Award Named for Jeff Wagner, a founding member of the Covington Chamber and passionate supporter of the Covington community, this award was created to celebrate a servant leader whose heart for service and commitment to community have left a lasting impact. The recipient leads with integrity, listens with intention, and inspires others through action and example. Recipient: Debby Hartsock Debby has been actively serving the Covington community in a variety of roles for nearly two decades, including serving on the Covington City Council and volunteering for and supporting The Storehouse, Covington Chamber, Covington Rotary, and the Kent Guild of Seattle Children’s Hospital. She leads with both strength and heart, stepping in where needed, guiding others forward, and lifting up those around her. Above all, she embodies grace, integrity, and a deep commitment to service. Honorary Lifetime Membership and Key to the Chamber Recipient: Jeff Wagner The evening concluded with special recognition honoring Jeff Wagner. Board chair Rod Meyers presented Jeff with an honorary lifetime membership and the Key to the Chamber in appreciation of his extraordinary service as one of the Covington Chamber’s founders and longtime chamber leader. “We want to extend our thanks and congratulations to our 2025 award winners, finalists and nominees for their outstanding service to the community,” said Meyers. “They represent the best of us while setting a high standard for others to follow. We are proud to call them members and to help them grow and thrive.” The Covington Chamber wants to thank the event sponsors who made the evening possible: presenting sponsor and host Weatherly Inn; dessert sponsor Ube Overload; photography sponsor Pooja Anoop Photography; awards sponsor C and B Awards; gift basket sponsor Apple Blossom Gift Baskets; and floral sponsor Iris & Peony. The Covington Chamber congratulates all nominees, finalists and award recipients for their outstanding contributions and continued commitment to excellence. About the Covington Chamber of Commerce Since 1992, the Covington Chamber of Commerce has supported businesses and organizations in the greater Covington area through advocacy, connections and community. They provide a strong support network, access to resources, and educational opportunities to help Covington area businesses and organizations grow and thrive. Photos courtesy of Pooja Anoop Photography with a few candid photos by Dana Neuts.  The Covington Chamber Business Excellence Awards, proudly presented by The Weatherly Inn, invites you to an unforgettable evening — “A Night at the Museum.”
Step into a world where history meets achievement as we honor our outstanding Covington Chamber business winners and finalists. This elegant and exciting evening will shine a spotlight on the innovators, leaders, and community champions who make our business community extraordinary. Savor the Experience Enjoy delicious appetizers and desserts from around the world as you stroll through fun museum-style exhibits. Celebrate & Win Take part in exciting raffle prizes. Proceeds from the raffle tickets benefit the Good Work Fund. Honor Excellence Applaud the remarkable businesses whose passion and dedication continue to shape and strengthen our community. This is more than an awards ceremony — it’s a celebration of excellence, culture, and connection. Dress to impress and prepare for an evening filled with flavor, fun, and inspiration. We can’t wait to celebrate with you at this spectacular Night at the Museum! Register here: $50 per person includes heavy appetizers, dessert, 2 drink tickets, awards program, museum exhibits, and event photos. Raffle tickets are sold separately. Note: We are limiting the event to the first 40 RSVPs, so reserve your space today!  Thank you to Dr. Stacey Morrison and Tess Christmas from Green River College for sharing grant-funded workforce development opportunities available to businesses in the Green River College service area. At Tuesday's webinar, we learned that Green River College's Corporate Training & Continuing Education Program serves helps companies pay for training in four ways:
For the 2025-26 school year, the state board funding pool was $7 million, and it is expected to be in the same range again for the 2026-27 school year. Find out if a training program is right for you:
The grant window opens March 1, 2026 for 30 days, so learn more today!  Is your business in need of low or no-cost training? Since 1983, the Job Skills Program, funded through the Washington Board of Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) has enhanced economic and workforce development through short-term training designed to bolster critical industry clusters (manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and food production).
Each year, companies are granted up to $600,000 in funds for a one-year grant with the opportunity to reapply for a second year of training. Green River College has experience writing, developing, and administering these grants, and they want to help you decide if this is a good fit for your organization. If one or more of the following applies to your company, you qualify if:
Learn more about the grant program by attending a no-cost webinar on Tues., Feb. 24 from noon to 1 p.m., hosted by the Covington Chamber in collaboration with Green River College's Continuing Education Program. Register here.  UPDATE: The deadline for nominations has been extended until Wed., Feb. 18, 2026 at 5 p.m. It’s time to shine a spotlight on the businesses and leaders who make our community thrive! Nominations are now open for the 2025 Covington Chamber Business Excellence Awards, celebrating the innovation, leadership, and impact of our local business community and chamber members. Know a business, organization, or individual who deserves recognition? Don’t wait--nominations are due by 12:00 PM on February 15, 2026. Help us celebrate excellence in Covington by submitting your nomination today! Scan the QR Code above or follow this link: https://form.jotform.com/260277299892171 For a complete list of active Covington Chamber members, visit our online Member Directory. Award CategoriesRising Star Award The Rising Star Award celebrates a new Covington Chamber member who joined within the last 18 months and immediately jumped in with enthusiasm and purpose. This business has built strong relationships, supported fellow members, and shown a genuine commitment to the chamber and the Covington community. Their leadership, involvement, and passion for making a difference truly reflect the spirit of a rising star. Entrepreneur of the Year Award The Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes a standout Covington-area business that exemplifies innovation, leadership, and engagement. Through a strong entrepreneurial mindset and active chamber involvement, the recipient makes a lasting impact on the local business community. Business Excellence Award The Business Excellence Award honors a Covington-area business that exemplifies workplace excellence through a strong, people-centered culture. By valuing employees, supporting professional growth, and fostering engagement, this business sets a high standard for leadership, performance, and community impact. Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award The Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award honors an individual whose time, energy, and leadership help strengthen the Covington Chamber. Whether formally or informally, this volunteer consistently steps up to support members, build connections, and advance the chamber’s mission. Nonprofit Excellence Award The Nonprofit Excellence Award honors a nonprofit whose dedication and service strengthen the greater Covington community. Through impactful programs, outreach, and charitable efforts, this organization improves lives and inspires positive change. Covington Economic Impact Award The Covington Economic Impact Award recognizes a business, organization, or initiative that has made a significant contribution to economic growth in the greater Covington area. Through innovation and collaboration, the recipient strengthens the local economy and business climate. Jeff Wagner Community Champion Award Named for Jeff Wagner, a founding member of the Covington Chamber and passionate supporter of the Covington community, this award celebrates a servant leader whose heart for service and commitment to community have left a lasting impact. The recipient leads with integrity, listens with intention, and inspires others through action and example. Celebrating our winnersWe will celebrate our winners at a special Business Excellence Awards ceremony, presented by the Weatherly Inn at Lake Meridian. Wed., March 25, 2026
6 to 8 p.m. Weatherly Inn at Lake Meridian Emcee: Jeff Wagner, Covington Councilmember and Chamber Board Member Tickets are limited to the first 40 guests. Pricing, registration link, and other event details coming soon!  The Covington Chamber is excited to welcome Brad Rhame of Jean Wall State Farm Insurance to our Board of Directors!
Brad brings a strong background in business administration, management, sales, and leadership, along with a deep commitment to serving the Covington community. He is also an active board member of the See Ya Later Foundation, further reflecting his passion for community and giving back. One reference describes Brad as bringing “a balanced combination of leadership, communication, and vision, with a strong ability to identify opportunities for collaboration and strengthen organizational initiatives.” Please join us in welcoming Brad as he begins his two-year term on January 1, 2026. We’re grateful to have his experience and insight on the Covington Chamber board!  We are excited to welcome Bruce Barnes of Actualize Your Full Potential LLC as our newest ambassador! He loves supporting local businesses and using his expertise to help them grow. He is also a great advocate for us. Welcome to your new role, Bruce!
Bruce Barnes, known as The Logical Intuitive, helps individuals, professionals, and entrepreneurs regain clarity, purpose, and direction when life or work feels overwhelming. He is the founder of Actualize Your Full Potential LLC and the author of the upcoming self-help novel, "Mindset Reset: How to Actualize Your Full Potential." Through his proprietary Inner Compass Mode™, Bruce integrates mindset, wellness, communication, and Human-First AI to help people trust themselves again and move forward with confidence and intention! If you want to make a donation to a local nonprofit this holiday season, we have more than 25 worthy nonprofits to choose from.  Alzheimer's Association
Bicycle Rescue for Youth Birthday Dreams Bloodworks Northwest Children's Therapy Center Communities in Schools South King County Covington Community Church Covington Rotary Club Do The Right Thing Eileen & Callie's Place Elk Run Farm Emerald Theatre Ensemble Ballet Theatre Greater Maple Valley Veterans Memorial Foundation Greater Seattle Business Association (GSBA) Green River College Foundation Kent Community Foundation Kent Youth & Family Services Maple Valley Farmers' Market Multi-Service Center Orion Industries Real Kids Learning Real Life Church Seattle's Union Gospel Mission See Ya Later Foundation Tahogreen Eco Guardians The Storehouse Valley CERT & Red Cross Volunteer Community Valley Girls & Guys Vine Maple Place
Looking for local gifts or experiences this holiday season? Check out our Covington Holiday Gift Guide featuring some of our Covington Chamber members! Shop local.
Annual SSCCLC Legislative Breakfast Returns Dec. 16 with Keynote from Attorney General Nick Brown12/3/2025
 The South Sound Chambers of Commerce Legislative Coalition invites local legislators, government officials, businesses, and community organizations to attend their annual legislative breakfast. This year’s event will take place at Emerald Downs (2300 Ron Crockett Dr., Auburn, WA 98001) on Tues., Dec. 16 from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. The breakfast will feature special guest speaker Attorney General Nick Brown and a legislative caucus panel with Senator Chris Gildon, Senator Tina Orwall, Representative Chris Stearns, and Representative Drew Stokesbary. In addition, executives from each of the participating chambers of commerce – Seattle Southside, Auburn Area Connect, Kent Chamber, Puyallup-Sumner Chamber, Vashon Island Chamber, Covington Chamber, and Renton Chamber – will share the coalition’s priorities for the upcoming legislative session. Focus areas include public safety, attainable housing, education, transportation, small businesses, budget and taxes, and more. "This is an important event that allows members of the business community throughout the South Sound to hear from statewide elected officials and local legislators about what to expect during the 2026 legislative session," said Sam Pace, the coalition's secretary, who also served as its founding president when the coalition formed 20 years ago. "This annual legislative preview breakfast has proven to be a tremendously important opportunity for the business community to convey its expectations and hopes for legislative policies and restraint that will be important for the survival of businesses,” Pace added. “Working with our legislators, our goal is to continue to preserve and enhance economic vitality and quality of life in South King County, and North and East Pierce County." The breakfast is made possible by local sponsors, including platinum sponsor Comcast Business; gold sponsors Boeing and Seattle King County REALTORS; and table sponsors Renton Technical College, the City of Auburn, Renton Chamber of Commerce, and Covington Chamber of Commerce. Tickets and additional information about sponsorships for the event are available at SSCCLC.org/events. Following the event, SSCCLC’s 2026 issue paper will be available for review.  About South Sound Chambers of Commerce Legislative Coalition (SSCCLC)
The coalition unites Chambers of Commerce from South King County and North and East Pierce County to advocate for business-related legislation and public policy that support economic prosperity. By amplifying the collective voice of the region’s business community, the coalition develops annual legislative priorities and engages in policy efforts that advance the interests of local employers. The coalition represents more than 3,262 businesses, employing over 185,977 workers and generating more than $100 billion in revenue across South King and North Pierce counties. Key industries include manufacturing, retail, services, and warehousing. SSCCLC focuses on economic vitality, job creation, competitiveness, and regional productivity by advocating for fully funded transportation infrastructure, investment in education and workforce development, attainable housing, better access to health services, and improved public safety. |
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