News Summary
The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated local achievements at its annual Excellence Awards Luncheon. Honorees included Penny Bowles of the Bowling Green Police Department for the 2025 ATHENA Award, and Justin Gearlds from RENEW by Optimum Rejuvenation, recipient of the 2025 Small Business Person of the Year. The event recognized outstanding contributions by individuals and businesses striving for excellence and community engagement.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual Excellence Awards Luncheon, honoring exceptional local leaders and organizations that have made significant contributions to the community. This year’s awards highlighted the dedication and impact of individuals and businesses within the region.
Penny Bowles of the Bowling Green Police Department received the prestigious 2025 ATHENA Award in recognition of her remarkable community service and her mentorship of fellow officers and young women. Bowles has established herself as a role model in the community, demonstrating commitment to both her profession and to empowering others.
In addition, Justin Gearlds of RENEW by Optimum Rejuvenation was named the 2025 Small Business Person of the Year. Gearlds attributed his success to his dedicated team, emphasizing the collective effort that contributes to the business’s achievements. This award acknowledges outstanding entrepreneurs who play a vital role in bolstering the local economy.
Another honoree, Jessica Carver from the College Heights Foundation, was awarded the 2025 ATHENA Young Professional Award. This accolade recognizes young women who not only excel in their fields but also engage in community leadership and service. Carver’s work has significantly impacted her community, making her a deserving recipient of this recognition.
TimeSavers Caregiving & Concierge was recognized as the 2025 Minority and/or Woman-Owned Business of the Year. This award is designated for businesses that are at least 51% minority and/or woman-owned, aimed at promoting business growth and diversity in the region. The recognition highlights the importance of supporting diverse business ownership in Bowling Green.
Moreover, Kentucky Kids on the Block was honored as the Nonprofit of the Year for its extensive community outreach and support efforts. This award acknowledges local nonprofits that have made a significant impact through their services and community partnerships, showcasing the role such organizations play in enhancing community welfare.
The event was expertly emceed by Doug and Michelle Gorman, both of whom are past recipients of the Excellence Awards, adding a personal touch to the proceedings. Ron Bunch, the President and CEO of the Chamber, emphasized the essential role that bold leadership and visionary businesses play in community advancement.
Pinnacle Financial Partners served as the title sponsor for the event, demonstrating its commitment to celebrating local achievements and fostering a supportive business environment in the area. The Excellence Awards Luncheon serves as an important platform for recognizing and appreciating the hard work of individuals and organizations that strive for excellence in their respective fields.
The ATHENA Awards are designed to recognize professionals who excel in their careers, contribute to their communities, and inspire others, especially women, to reach their potential. In a similar vein, the Small Business Person of the Year award honors entrepreneurs who significantly impact the local economy through their dedication and innovation. Additionally, the ATHENA Young Professional Award is specifically for young women who demonstrate exceptional leadership and service to their communities and careers. Finally, the Minority and/or Woman-Owned Business of the Year award promotes business diversity by acknowledging businesses that support inclusivity in ownership and leadership.
Through these awards and recognitions, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce continues to spotlight the remarkable efforts of local leaders and organizations, reinforcing the importance of community engagement and leadership in the growth and development of Bowling Green.
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Additional Resources
- WBKO: Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Recognizes Community Leaders
- WNKY: Winners Announced at Excellence Awards Luncheon
- WBKO: Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Video Recognition
- Lane Report: Bowling Green Chamber Wins Mac Conway Award
- WNKY: Med Center Hosts Annual Nursing Awards
- Wikipedia: Bowling Green, Kentucky
- Google Search: Bowling Green Kentucky Community Leaders
- Google Scholar: Bowling Green Kentucky Excellence Awards
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bowling Green
- Google News: Bowling Green Kentucky Awards
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
