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Business, civic and community leaders from Addison, Carrollton and Farmers Branch gathered Thursday at the Metrocrest Area Chamber’s 56th Annual Awards Luncheon to recognize outstanding contributions to the region’s economy and civic life.
The signature event, held Feb. 26, convened more than 350 local business leaders, elected officials and chamber members to celebrate leadership, innovation and service. Attendees honored individuals and organizations whose work over the past year strengthened the Metrocrest business community.
In 2025, the chamber added 148 new members, held 22 Connect Lunches, 56 ribbon cuttings, 12 Morning Mingles and 14 Young Professional Events. They launched the Metrocrest Manufacturers & Distributors Alliance, the Senior Services Alliance, the National Civics Bee, the Metrocrest Chamber Foundation, which aims to foster education and workforce development and promote growth in the region, and revitalized the ambassador program.
In her address to members as part of the annual report Board Chair Darby Merriman, said the chamber staff visited more than 400 businesses in 2025, connecting business owners in her annual report to members. “That’s not just outreach, that’s a community-building program,” she said. She called the efforts strategy in motion.
“We strengthened our identity. We grew membership. We deepened relationships. We expanded programming, and we launched a foundation. I think that’s pretty impressive,” Merriman said.
Chamber President/CEO Michael Gallops announced awards, while the mayors from each city provided details about why they nominated those who won Rising Star Awards. Police and fire chiefs from each city praised those rewarded the First Responder Awards.
Small Business of the Year: Chase Courier & Logistics Inc.
Large Business of the Year: Envision Dallas
Dave Oldfield Ambassador of the Year: Tiara Tucker
Businesswoman of the Year: Dr. Madeline Burillo-Hopkins
Milburn Gravely Citizen of the Year: Alexandra Fincher
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