ST. GEORGE — In a typical awards ceremony, there is always a nice dinner, a presentation, clapping for the recipients, etc. For the annual “30 in their Thirties” banquet, hosted by the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce, things got a little louder.
With whoops, whistles and hollers, 30 of the most influential leaders and business owners in Washington County were honored Wednesday during the awards ceremony. The caveat to be nominated for these awards? No Boomers allowed.
“These are 30 individuals in our community between the ages of 30-39 who are really the cream of the crop,” Chamber President Shawn Christensen said. “They are either rising in their industries, or they have already made it. They are nominated by their peers and coworkers and are out making a difference in their communities.”
The decisions were tough for the selection committee, Christensen said, with more than 75 “movers and shakers” nominated. Hurricane City Mayor Nanette Billings was in attendance watching two professionals she nominated pick up awards: Dayton Hall, Hurricane city attorney, and Jordan Hess, Washington city public affairs officer.
“When you focus on the youth, the young generation, you’re looking for the leaders,” Billings said. “The shining stars that you can see are going to take hold in business, in the community, and in events that will make a difference – and that is what it takes. So we have to raise and help leaders to excel.”
The list of dynamic young leaders on the list covered many jobs and industries from business owners, municipal workers and a news editor to educators, marketing, medical and arts professionals. While there were many outbursts of joy during the show, it ended with a solemn moment honoring one of their fallen.
Tyler Hall, a local certified public accountant and father of four, lost his battle with lung cancer after a valiant struggle, said his parents in a video presentation played at the conclusion of the show. Brent and Gina Hall accepted the award honoring their son, and several of Tyler’s co-workers also spoke about his contributions to the community.
“He prepared taxes for every one of his clients as if he were preparing his own taxes,” said one co-worker. “He treated every customer and their business as if they were family.”
For a complete list of winners, click on the link for the SGACC 30 in their Thirties program.
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The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual "30 in their Thirties" event on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022 | Haven Scott, St. George News The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual "30 in their Thirties" event on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022 | Haven Scott, St. George News The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual "30 in their Thirties" event on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022 | Haven Scott, St. George News The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual "30 in their Thirties" event on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022 | Haven Scott, St. George News The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual "30 in their Thirties" event on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022 | Haven Scott, St. George News
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