The Lower Bucks County Chamber of Commerce announced the 2024 Champions of Commerce Award recipients — nine exemplary individuals, businesses and nonprofits have been selected to be honored for their leadership and contributions that have positively impacted the Lower Bucks County community.
The honorees were celebrated during the 2024 Champions of Commerce Awards Dinner on Nov. 20, at The Fuge in Warminster. This year’s event was sponsored by St. Mary Medical Center, a member of Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic. The annual dinner showcases the exceptional efforts of local leaders who drive positive change. From corporations dedicated to social responsibility to nonprofits addressing the region’s most pressing issues, the Champions Awards highlight those who strengthen the fabric of the Lower Bucks County community.
The 2024 Champions of Commerce Award winners are:
- Community Impact & Outreach Champion – Rebecca Kelly: Presented to a person or business that has driven positive change and has helped elevate and improve the quality of life in Lower Bucks County.
- Entrepreneur of the Year Champion – Michael Gumbert, Mercer Bucks Technology: Presented to an individual who has taken a risk, persevered and succeeded in their professional career.
- Economic Impact Champion – Thomas J. Lonergan, Bucks County Industrial Development Authority: Presented to a business/organization that has demonstrated a commitment to investing in job creation and growth opportunities in their business and/or community, providing a vision that will impact the economy of Bucks County over the next three years.
- Industry Innovator Champion – Langan Engineering & Environmental Services: Presented to a business or entity that has successfully developed or implemented innovative technology.
- Nonprofit Champions – Bucks County Opportunity Council and The Christmas Gala: Recognizes a nonprofit organization that has made significant contributions and demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the betterment of Bucks County.
- New Business Champion – Yardley Refillery: Presented to a business, formed after January 2021, that has shown growth and development while overcoming obstacles and creating an organization and/or product from the ground up.
- Workforce Development Champion – Brian Cummings, Workforce & Economic Development: Honors an individual, organization or business that has played a pivotal role in creating a thriving and sustainable workforce by implementing innovative programs, providing resources and advocating for workforce development initiatives in Lower Bucks County.
- Young Professional of the Year – Lorena Escalera, Penn Community Bank: Presented to a young professional who is 45 or under and demonstrates personal and professional leadership and community service.
Nominations were held online and winners were selected for each category by a panel.