The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce is calling for nominations for its annual A+ Awards, and you have until Friday, August 29 at 5 PM to submit your picks.
Every year, the Chamber celebrates individuals and organizations that make the Amherst area a better place to live, work, and learn. These awards recognize those who strengthen our communities through leadership, creativity, and service across the towns the Chamber serves: Amherst, Belchertown, Hadley, Leverett, Pelham, Shutesbury, and Sunderland.
“The A+ Awards are a powerful platform for sharing the inspiring stories of leaders, businesses, and organizations who shape our community through innovation, creativity, and impactful solutions,” said Jacob Robinson, Executive Director of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce.
“Through professionally produced videos and our annual awards dinner, attended by hundreds of community and business leaders, we celebrate and amplify these stories. If someone in your network has made a difference this year, now’s the time to nominate them and ensure their story is told.”
A+ Awards categories
Nominate a standout person, business, or organization in any of these categories:
- Legacy Award
Honors those whose long-term contributions have left a lasting impact on the Amherst area. - Leader in Innovation
Highlights entrepreneurs transforming the way we live, work, and learn. - Leader in Sustainability
Celebrates dedication to environmental and community sustainability. - Young Professional Award
Recognizes emerging leaders making a significant impact. - Community Service Award
Applauds efforts that enrich the lives of local residents. - Chamber MVP
Salutes an individual who champions the Chamber’s mission and connects people and businesses.
2025 A+ Awards Winners
The 2025 Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce A+ Awards highlighted the depth of talent and dedication in our region.
Colleen Kelley, retired Education Director at the Hitchcock Center for the Environment, earned the Legacy Award for four decades of transformative environmental education.
Feel Good Shop Local, founded by Michelle Wirth, received the Innovation Award for championing local artisans and sustainable shopping.
Kayla Sheridan of TommyCar Auto Group was named Young Professional for her bold marketing leadership, while Seiha Krouch was honored for outstanding community service and cultural preservation.
Georgia Moore of Cooley Dickinson Hospital claimed the Chamber MVP title for strengthening ties between businesses and nonprofits.
Claudia Pazmany, former Chamber Executive Director, received the Harvesting Excellence Award for steering the Chamber through pivotal growth.
How to nominate someone for the A+ Awards
Submitting a nomination is easy. Use the Chamber’s online form at amherstarea.com/awards. There’s no limit to the number of nominations, and Chamber membership is not required to nominate or be nominated.
Everyone who nominates someone will be entered into a raffle for one free ticket to the A+ Awards Dinner on November 18, 2025, at the UMass Student Union Ballroom, presented by PeoplesBank.
Want to learn more or become a sponsor?
Visit the event page for details, or contact Jacob Robinson at director[at]amherstarea.com for sponsorship opportunities.
Do you know someone whose hard work and heart have made our community stronger? Take a few minutes to nominate them today. Share this post with your friends, neighbors, and colleagues so we can shine a light on the people and organizations that make the Amherst area a great place to call home.
PHOTO: A scene from the 2023 Amherst Area A+ Awards | FungaiFoto
