On Thursday, October 19, 2023 we had our Membership Luncheon and Recognized our Education and Health Care Professional of the Year. The luncheon was held at the Westport Event Center and was sponsored by Logos School. We began our meeting by saying the Pledge of Allegiance and welcoming our city officials and guests. Next, Ryan Gist, with Logos School, welcomed everyone and shared briefly how Logos School supports their students. He also shared some heartfelt words on those leaders that make a difference in our communities and congratulated this year's winners.

Following Ryan, we presented plaques to two new members (pictured above):

• Tonya Wininger with Brain Train Center St. Louis
• Jaime Rothermich with Functional Elements Training & Nutrition

While enjoying their lunch, tables shared about an Educator and/or Health Care worker that made a difference in their life or the life of their family. After people wrapped up their conversations, Tom Lancia shared about upcoming events and some examples of some teachers and health care workers that helped him in his life. Next Mo Riad, current Chamber Board  President, shared why we started these awards two years ago and thanked the committee for their hard work. We started with recognizing our Educator. The criteria for the Education Professional of the Year:

1. Distinguished career and outstanding contribution to public or private education at the local level.

2. Displays self-sacrifice, selflessness, and dedication to the education of area students.

3. Establishes meaningful connections with students and families within our communities.

Mo invited Mary Cognata, head of Miriam School's K-8, to say a few words about Casey Gonzalez. (click here read) Then Mo presented Casey Gonzalez, teacher at Miriam School and Learning Center, the Chamber's award for the 2023 Education Professional of the Year.

Next we recognized our Health Care Worker. The criteria for the Health Care Worker of the Year:

1. Outstanding health care worker who goes above and beyond best practices to deliver extraordinary care.

2. Displays self-sacrifice and selflessness in caring for others

3. Establishes meaningful connections with patients and families within our communities.

Mo invited Ryan Dooley to share a few words about Kaitlyn Dooley.  Ryan first read a note from Kaitlyn's supervisor, Kim Harlow, from BJC Hospital. (click here to read) Next Ryan shared from his heart of the love and pride he has for Kaiti. Then Mo presented Kaitlyn Dooley, RN Nurse, the Chamber's award for the 2023 Health Care Professional of the Year.

Both awardees were also given a gift basket from Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers for their service to the community.

Finally, Click Here to see pictures from our Membership Luncheon taken by Kevin McCarty with McCarty Photography. Before the luncheon we surprised Casey Gonzalez in her classroom - Click here to see her with her class.