Alliance celebrates community impact at annual awards dinner

Local leaders, businesses, and organizations recognized for contributions

KOKOMO, Ind. (Nov. 7, 2025) – The Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance celebrated another year of community progress at its Annual Celebration and Awards Dinner on Thursday, Nov. 6, at Bel Air Events. The evening recognized the individuals, businesses, and organizations whose contributions have made a lasting impact in Kokomo and Howard County.
As chairman of the Alliance’s Board of Directors, Cary Mawbey reflected on the community’s achievements in 2025.
“When people ask, ‘How does Kokomo keep moving forward?’ — the answer is simple: it’s preparation, vision, and determination,” Mawbey said. “We’re connectors, creators, and doers. The impact of our community’s strategic partnerships and shared vision is on full display in every project, every event, and every success story.”
Alliance President & CEO Lori Dukes highlighted the growing momentum in Kokomo and the palpable “buzz” in Kokomo.
“You can feel it in the energy downtown, in the projects rising from the ground, and in the partnerships forming across every sector,” Dukes said. “People are talking about Kokomo. Not as a place that used to be something, but as a place that’s becoming even more than it ever was.
“That’s not luck,” she said. “That’s leadership. That’s partnership. That’s progress. Progress built one bold decision at a time.”
The Alliance presented awards across multiple categories, highlighting local leaders making a difference:
• Economic Impact Award: Community First Bank of Indiana, recognized not only for financial growth but for a profound commitment to community. Over the past five years, it has than doubled in size and is quickly approaching the milestone of becoming a billion-dollar bank. In the past year alone, they’ve donated $165,000 to Kokomo nonprofits, bringing their total community investment to more than $1.5 million since their founding in 2003.
• Downtown Champion Award: Kristin and Tim Boor, owners of Bohemian Tattoo Club and Bohemian Events & Entertainment, were honored for their impact on downtown Kokomo. Together, they’ve made downtown a hub of creativity, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.
• F.I.R.S.T.S. Award: Craig Severns received the F.I.R.S.T.S. Award for his exceptional tourism service in Howard County. Known for his contagious energy and pride in Kokomo, Craig embodies the spirit of a true community ambassador.
• Small Business of the Year: Palmer’s Jewelry, a family-owned business serving Kokomo since 1944, was recognized for its commitment to the community, outstanding service, and employee development. They continue to inspire what it means to be a small business rooted in community.
• Large Business of the Year: Chariot Automotive Group was honored for its long-standing success and investment in Kokomo’s workforce. Their Automotive Technician Education Pathway with Ivy Tech Community College provides students hands-on experience and career opportunities locally.
• Businessperson of the Year: Ethan Heicher was recognized for his leadership in expanding advanced manufacturing and digital integration programs. His vision and work continue to shape Kokomo’s workforce and economic future.
• Volunteer of the Year: Josh Walden was honored for his dedication to Howard County through Rotary Club projects, Kokomo Rescue Mission, and numerous community initiatives. His tireless service makes a lasting impact across the community.
• Impact Award: The Kokomo Rescue Mission was recognized for its work supporting vulnerable residents, serving over 110,000 meals and 40,000 nights of shelter annually. Their programs restore dignity, strengthen families, and create lasting community impact.
• Elizabeth Foster Award: Kasey Vincent was honored for empowering women in business and the community through 100+ People Who Care of Howard County and Gather and Grow. Her mentorship and leadership continue to inspire and connect women locally.
• Ambassador of the Year Award: Julie Keb was recognized for her outstanding commitment to the Chamber and broader Kokomo community. Through council involvement and volunteering at numerous events, she consistently goes above and beyond.
The evening also highlighted a community time capsule at the new downtown Kokomo Conference Center.
“It’s our way of preserving a piece of today for tomorrow,” said Chamber Manager Courtney Butler. “It’s a chance to capture what matters to us in this moment. Because whether we’re talking about the past that built us, the projects taking shape right now, or the future we’re building toward, it’s the moments in between that matter most.”
The Annual Celebration and Awards Dinner underscored the Alliance’s ongoing commitment to community, innovation, and strategic partnerships — celebrating not only what Kokomo has accomplished, but the potential still to come.