Robbie Perry
Latasha Brooks
Jennifer Mackowski
Werner Jansen
Stephen Kingsley
The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce awarded local businesses for their successes, entrepreneurial spirit, and community commitment at the 33rd Annual Awards Gala held Friday, April 12 at the Fredericksburg Convention Center. The event drew 450 people representing small and large businesses, nonprofits and representatives from state and local governments.
Community Impact Award – Fredericksburg Nationals
Beyond their on-field accomplishments, the Fredericksburg Nationals have consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community service. Through youth outreach programs, charitable initiatives, and partnerships with local nonprofits like the Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation, Sunshine Ballpark Foundation, the Fredericksburg Area Builders Association, and the Rappahannock Rotary Club, the team has become an indispensable part of the fabric of our community, inspiring civic pride and bringing people together through the universal language of America’s pastime. The Community Impact Award was accepted by Robbie Perry, general manager of the Fredericksburg Nationals.
Entrepreneur of the Year – Latasha Brooks
A “serial entrepreneur,” Brooks has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to empowering small and minority-owned businesses to achieve their growth goals. As the successful founder and CEO of several thriving enterprises, she has leveraged her 15+ years of expertise to deliver innovative solutions and measurable results for her clients. Her passion for entrepreneurship and her dedication to mentoring the next generation of business leaders is truly inspiring. She has impacted unmet business needs in our region and beyond through the establishment of her Minority Business Government Contraction Summit. This entrepreneurial mentorship program reaches hundreds of business owners.
Small Businesses of the Year Award – Stevenson Ridge
As a premier event venue and hospitality destination, Stevenson Ridge has carved out a unique niche in the local market by blending historic charm with modern sophistication. Through their meticulous restoration and preservation of the property’s 19th-century structures, the business has not only honored the past but also created an unparalleled event experience that has captivated guests from near and far. A family owned and run business, the managing partner has spent the last 15 years devoted to excellence both within the walls of the business and externally as she represents the business in the community, serving in leadership capacities for nonprofits and civic organizations. The Small Business of the Year Award was accepted by Jennifer Mackowski, managing partner of Stevenson Ridge.
Large Businesses of the Year Award – Bloomia
Bloomia has redefined their industry, setting new standards of quality and sustainability through innovative practices and dedication to customer satisfaction. Through vertical integration, this company controls every aspect of their supply chain. This not only ensures strict quality control but also allows them to offer top quality, long lasting products while reducing waste and streamlining processes. What truly sets Bloomia apart is their relentless pursuit of innovation. They specialize in offering unique and exotic tulip varieties that may not be readily available through conventional florists, constantly pushing the boundaries of horticulture to bring customers a diverse array of blooms that capture the imagination. Additionally their CEO has been an active participant in regional initiatives such as the Chamber’s Leadership Trip to Lexington KY in 2023 and he is in the current class of Leadership Fredericksburg. The Large Business of the Year Award was accepted by Werner Jansen, CEO of Bloomia.
Prince B. Woodard Leadership Award – Stephen Kingsley
Mr. Kingsley came to the region more than 20 years ago and immediately began to give back in meaningful ways. He has served our community in numerous capacities, to include serving on Boards and Committees and volunteering for the Rappahannock-Fredericksburg Rotary Club (where he is a past president), Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Fredericksburg (where he is a past president), the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, the Rappahannock United Way, and of course, the Chamber. Mr. Kingsley also provided a life-saving bone marrow donation to a young stranger in need in 2009. From offering financial advice to local businesses, to supporting nonprofits serving children, pets, people in need, and the environment, Stephen Kingsley, Market President for Truist Bank, has gone above and beyond for the betterment of our community and its citizens.
