Criteria:
The candidate for this award should be an individual or organization outside of the New River Valley that has made significant contributions to the betterment of the region. Focus will be on candidates that improve communities through their dedication, collaborative approach and impact. Previous award winners include: 2016 - Mary Moody Northen Foundation (Mountain Lake Lodge); 2017 - Mr. Bill Shelton, Director of the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development; 2019- John Smolak, III (Appalachian Power); 2022-New River Conservancy.