The formal awards were presented at the banquet on Thursday, February 6 at the Edmond Conference Center
EYP & AMBASSADOR HIGHLIGHTS
The Chamber is proud to highlight two outstanding individuals for their contributions to our programs and community
A glance at the mission and direction of our local government
06 16 18 22 24 2025 ANNUAL AWARDS & HALL OF FAME BANQUET
EDMOND LEGENDS OF THE PAST AND PRESENT GOVERNMENT RELATIONS NEW MEMBERS
Celebrating Edmond Hall of Fame Inductees from the past and present
Directory of members added since the last issue of The Voice
FROM THE CEO
As we look to the future, Edmond continues to thrive as a city of opportunity, innovation, and community spirit Our growth is driven by visionary leaders, dedicated educators, and passionate citizens who work tirelessly to make Edmond a better place to live and work.
A key part of honoring our progress is recognizing those who have paved the way The Edmond Hall of Fame is a celebration of individuals whose contributions have shaped our community in profound ways.
This year, we were proud to induct Shannon Miller, Bob Weiss, Larry Stevens, Dr. Dwight Adams, and Pete Reeser (posthumously) each of whom has made a lasting impact through leadership, service, and excellence Their legacies serve as an inspiration, reminding us that progress comes from dedication, hard work, and a commitment to making a difference.
As we move forward, I encourage you to take pride in our city’s achievements and be an active part of its future. Whether by supporting local businesses, mentoring the next generation, or engaging in community initiatives, we all have a role in shaping Edmond’s continued success
Thank you for your passion and commitment to our great city. Together, we will ensure Edmond remains a place of opportunity and excellence for generations to come
Best regards,
SherryJordan PRESIDENT AND CEO
BOB WEISS
Robert S Weiss is a seasoned entrepreneur and business consultant with a career spanning over 47 years
Throughout his career, he successfully established and operated 32 businesses, often taking on turnaround projects and focusing primarily on the service industry
Othello’s Italian Restaurant, a concept that quickly became a beloved Edmond staple and has remained so for over 25 years
Othello’s was honored by the Edmond Chamber of Commerce as the 2008 Small Business of the Year. Bob acquired Around the Corner Restaurant in 2012 with a mission to preserve its iconic small-town cafe atmosphere
Guided by his motto, “Doing the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason,” Bob remains dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and fostering a thriving, connected community in Edmond
DWIGHT ADAMS
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PETE
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LARRY STEVENS
Larry Stevens dedicated over 40 years to city management, leaving a profound impact on each community he served
In recognition of his dedication and accomplishments, Larry was named City Manager of the Year by the CMAO in 2007 His service earned him a prestigious place in the Oklahoma Hall of Fame for City and Town Officials in 2023, honoring his lifelong commitment to public service
On a personal level, Larry shares his life with his wife, Kay, and enjoys time with their family, including daughters Ami and Ali, three grandchildren Marci, Derek, and Kelci a great-granddaughter, Emery, newborn twin grandsons due in February
SHANNON MILLER
Shannon Miller competed in TWO Olympic Games, earning 7 Olympic medals! (2 gold, 2 silver, 3 bronze) She is the only female athlete to be inducted into the US Olympic Hall of Fame – Twice! (Individual (2006) and Team (2008))
After retiring from Olympic competition, Shannon received her undergraduate degrees in marketing and entrepreneurship from the University of Houston and her law degree from Boston College
In January of 2011, Shannon was diagnosed with a rare form of ovarian cancer She is currently cancer-free and continues to be a strong advocate for early detection, awareness, research and survivorship.
Shannon is a mother of two, cancer survivor, author and sports analyst but she will forever be remembered for her focus, determination and as the leader of the Magnificent Seven!
BRAD MARDIS
MERCY AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR
Brad Mardis works in business advising with Rise Concepts and eventually launched his own consulting practice.
In 2024, Brad married Angie and enjoys family life with their three sons, Tallon, Zach, and Corbin Together, they love the outdoors, shooting sports, camping, and mentoring in Boy Scouts. Brad remains passionate about art, technology, and living a faith-driven life
“Brad Mardis is a standout Ambassador for the Edmond Chamber, always the first to volunteer for events and initiatives His willingness to jump in and help wherever needed shows his dedication to supporting the local business community Brad’s friendly, welcoming attitude makes him a familiar, smiling face for anyone new to the Chamber ”
TINKER FEDERAL CREDIT UNION NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR
Anna's House Foundation is a private foster care agency and mental health provider whose mission is to provide immediate, stable and loving homes for Oklahoma's children in state custody
“Anna’s House Foundation has dedicated itself to improving the foster care experience for children and families through a variety of innovative programs and services Their commitment to fostering resilience, stability, and growth in the lives of those they serve is truly commendable The dedication of AHF to its mission is evident in every interaction they have with foster children and families.”
-Kenneth Wohl, Anna’s House Foundation Board Member
BUD GROUND
INTEGRIS HEALTH EDMOND VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Bud Ground’s enthusiastic entrepreneurial spirit led him to retire after a 35-year career in the electric utility industry and start Common Ground Consulting, LLC to consult and assist companies with navigating through the state regulatory and legislative maze
As an energy and environmental executive his background reflects strengths in organizational and departmental leadership, integrated resource planning, and multimillion-dollar budgetary accountability within a Fortune 500 business environment
The Edmond Chamber is honored to select Bud Ground as the Integris Health Edmond Volunteer of the Year Bud has been an incredible volunteer with the chamber, and the Edmond Chamber is thrilled to honor him
BRIAN SOERENSEN
CITIZENS BANK OF EDMOND CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
Brian Soerensen has been an integral part of KickingBird Golf Club in Edmond, Oklahoma, serving as its Director of Golf since 1997
A PGA member since 1994, Brian began his professional journey as an Assistant Golf Professional at KickingBird Golf Course (1992-1995) before moving to Oak Tree Golf Club in the same capacity (19951997)
Brian is a devoted single father to three children Brandon (32), Tyler (26), and Addison (22) and a proud grandfather to Greyson (5) and Caden (2). His unwavering commitment to his family, community, and profession exemplifies the leadership and passion he brings to every facet of his life
DANIELA DEUEL
OU MEDICAL CENTER EDMOND
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Since 2015, Daniela Deuel has served as Regional Manager for Creative Financial Strategies, a values-based, comprehensive financial planning firm with offices in Albuquerque and Edmond
In addition to her profession, she volunteers regularly with Anna’s House Foundation, Edmond Mobile Meals, Fostering Sweet Dreams, the Kelli O’Hara Awards, and Victory Church Edmond. She serves as the Chairwoman for both the City of Edmond’s Community Policing Board and Edmond Young Professionals
“Daniela Deuel has been an incredible asset to Edmond Young Professionals since the moment she joined. As she steps into the role of Chairwoman in 2025, I am confident that her enthusiasm, dedication, and leadership will take EYP to even greater heights ” -Kristen King, Edmond Young Professionals
Staff Liaison
CHRIS BERRY
OKLAHOMA ER & HOSPITAL LEADERSHIP EDMOND ALUMNI OF THE YEAR
Chris Berry is a Husband, Father, and Cause Driven Leader, that calls Edmond home with his wife Lindsay and son Forrest
Chris has served over 24 Years in the YMCA Movement He currently serves as the YMCA District Executive for the Edmond District. In addition to his role in Edmond, Chris serves as the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Sports Chair and as a YUSA Sports Service Delivery Partner & Thought Cohort Leader
“Chris Berry has been such a supporter of Leadership Edmond. Each year, he graciously takes a class member as an intern to sit on their board He also has faithfully sent an employee of the YMCA through the program each year for many years He is an asset to the Edmond community ”
-Amanda Bowen, Edmond Chamber Director of Leadership Programs
MATTHEWS FUNERAL HOME
Matthews Funeral Home and Cremation Service, established in June 2000 by Randy and Barbara Matthews, is the city of Edmond’s only family-owned and operated funeral home, dedicated to providing compassionate and personal care during life’s most challenging times. Serving over 400 families annually, the funeral home offers traditional burial and cremation services, livestreamed memorials, grief support groups, and customized tributes
Community involvement remains a cornerstone of Matthews Funeral Home’s mission.
With its focus on innovation, community engagement, and compassionate service, Matthews Funeral Home has earned its reputation as a trusted and integral part of the Edmond community
KRISTY PAYNE
PROSPERTY BANK WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Kristy Payne, a dedicated real estate agent and a passionate advocate for vulnerable children and has made a significant impact on the lives of countless Oklahoma youngsters Born in California, she relocated to Oklahoma in 1993.
Kristy founded Fostering Sweet Dreams (FSD) in March 2016 What began as a small endeavor to donate beds from her garage has blossomed into a thriving organization that provides essential bedding and furniture to now all vulnerable families across Oklahoma.
Over 1 4 million dollars of resources have gone out to children in the state of Oklahoma ensuring Oklahoma’s most vulnerable children have a clean safe bed to sleep in.
OKLAHOMA NATURAL GAS
RCB BANK PHILANTHROPIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Oklahoma Natural Gas supports local communities through philanthropic efforts, including grants for educational programs, funding local charities and participating in community development projects In Edmond, Oklahoma Natural Gas contributed to Edmond Mobile Meals’ new facility and partners with the Edmond Public Schools Foundation to enhance education. Additionally, through the ONE Gas Foundation, the company offers DonorsChoose teacher grants and engages employees in volunteerism, such as food pantry service and United Way campaigns
Oklahoma Natural Gas is a division of ONE Gas, Inc. (NYSE: OGS), a stand-alone, 100% regulated, publicly traded natural gas utility that trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “OGS ”
The Edmond Chamber Achieves Remarkable 5-Star Recognition
The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce is proudly a 5-Star Accredited Chamber by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The Edmond Chamber received 5 Stars in 2015, 2020, and again in 2025 for sound policies, effective organizational procedures, engaging programming, and positive impact on community.
Of nearly 7,000 chambers across the country, The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce is one of only 128 5-Star Accredited chambers in the U.S. and one of four in the state of Oklahoma.
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D M O N D Y O U N G P R O F E S S I O N A L H I G H L I G H T
BRITLEY LITTLE
ANNA’S HOUSE FOUNDATION
Britley Little is the Director of Community Engagement at The Anna’s House Foundation (AHF), a foster care agency in Edmond A graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma with a bachelor's degree in Family Life Education, Britley has always been passionate about advocating for vulnerable children and families.
Since joining AHF in 2018, she has held diverse roles, gaining expertise in donor relations, digital content creation, and orchestrating large-scale events to drive fundraising initiatives. Most recently, she launched AHF’s first Young Professionals Board, bringing together dynamic young leaders committed to making a lasting impact in Oklahoma’s foster care system
An active member of the Edmond Chamber, Britley is deeply invested in her community. She has been an active member of Edmond Young Professionals since 2022 In 2024, she started serving on the Edmond Young Professionals Board and will be Chairwoman of the program in 2026. She loves calling Edmond home and enjoys traveling with her husband, playing with her dogs, and finding new ways to give back
MATTHEW BOYDSTUN
NEPTUNE CREMATION SOCIETY
C H A M B E R A M B A S S A D O R H I G H L I G H T
Matthew R “Matt” Boydstun is originally from Seminole, Oklahoma He graduated from Oklahoma Christian University in 2004 and the University of Central Oklahoma in 2007 He has served Edmond area families since 2008. Matt is the Services Manager for Neptune Cremation Society and has a passion for helping families through difficult times
Matt is actively involved in the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce; including being a past chair of Edmond Young Professionals, 2020 Young Professional of the Year, 2017 Volunteer of the Year, Leadership Edmond Class 31, Leadership Edmond Alumni Committee Chair, Edmond Chamber’s Dancing with the Stars celebrity dancer, and Ambassador.
Neptune Cremation Society is dedicated to being an active part of the communities they serve Matt says, “For me, being an ambassador is a great way to connect with new businesses, new members, and his fellow ambassadors and celebrate member milestones. And it’s a lot of fun!”
Matt is a member of the Memorial Road Church of Christ and, in his free time, enjoys spending time with his wife and their three children, hanging out with friends, watching movies and TV, and reading.
CELEBRATING THE EDMOND HALL OF FAME
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
The Edmond Hall of Fame is more than just a recognition of individual achievements; it is a celebration of the values that define the city excellence, leadership, service, and perseverance.
Each inductee has played a crucial role in shaping Edmond’s identity, whether through education, business, athletics, or philanthropy. Their contributions have not only enriched the community but have also set a powerful example for future generations
IMPORTANCE OF THE EDMOND HALL OF FAME
These individuals remind us that true success is not just about personal achievements but about the positive impact one leaves on others. Their stories are woven into the fabric of Edmond, influencing policies, inspiring young minds, and shaping the community’s future
As we celebrate these exceptional leaders, we are reminded that the Edmond Hall of Fame is not just about honoring the past it is about building the future Their legacy encourages the next generation to dream big, work hard, and contribute meaningfully to the world around them. Edmond takes immense pride in its Hall of Fame members, knowing that their stories will continue to inspire for years to come.
This year, we had the privilege of inducting five outstanding individuals into the Edmond Hall of Fame, each of whom has made a lasting impact on our community and beyond. Our 2025 inductees include Shannon Miller, an Olympic gold medalist and one of the most decorated American gymnasts. Bob Weiss, a highly respected businessman, and entrepreneur that has dedicated his career to developing Edmond Larry Stevens, a community leader that has played a key role in Edmond’s growth and economic development Dwight Adams, a renowned forensic scientist that has made groundbreaking contributions in the field of criminal justice and Pete Reeser, a longtime realtor and successful businessman
Each of these inductees represents the spirit of excellence that defines Edmond, and we are honored to celebrate their achievements and contributions. The Hall of Fame is more than just an honor; it is a lasting legacy that encourages every citizen to strive for greatness and contribute to the betterment of Edmond
All Edmond Hall of Fame Inductees
1981
R. Everett Bryant, Minnie Sue Fleming, John R. Moore, Dr. Ralph Payne, M. Custer Service
1982
Mel Dixon, Juanita Delbridge, Garland Godfrey, Rex Standifer, Robert T Rice -Historical-
Alvin Alcorn, Sidney Bray, Guy Rankin, Everette Carl Hafer, “Miss Alice” Weaver Johnson, Dorothea Meagher
1984
“Mo” Anderson, J.R. “Bob” Ray, Carl Reherman, Bob Rudkin, Fred Snyder, Phil Watson -HistoricalCharlie Johnson
1985
Ted Anderson, John Kessler, Oren Lee Peters -HistoricalDr. John Howard, J. Wendell Simmons
1986
John Stone, Quimby Enterline, John Thomas, Dr W H Roberts
1989
Ambassador Edwin G Corr, Morris A “Hoot” Gibson, Dr Stanley W Hoig, Neal A McCaleb -HistoricalGinger Sturm
1996
Charles T Boldin, Saundra Gragg, Joe C Jackson, Jan Pokorny-Steele, Randel C Shadid -HistoricalRobert W “Bob” Lewallen
2000
David Bickham, James H. Harrod, Edward Livermore, Jr., C.H. Spearman, Jr.
2005
Kay Bickham, Ruth Boss, Phil Parduhn, W Roger Webb, Jim White
2010
Rita Aragon, Krista Jones, Charles Lamb, Doug Tewell, Ray Vaughn -HistoricalBruce Gray
2015
Michael Brown, Mitzi Hancuff, Art Proctor, Max Speegle, Scott Verplank
2020
George Nigh, Ray Hibbard, Steve Murdock, Avilla Williams -HistoricalClaudette Dills
2025
Dr Dwight Adams, Shannon Miller, Larry Stevens, Bob Weiss -HistoricalPete Reeser
2025 GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
The Edmond Chamber of Commerce’s Government Relations Committee enables the Chamber to foster and maintain important relationships with elected officials. The committee works to represent the legislative interests of business on local, state and national levels through a variety of efforts including candidate forums, legislative breakfasts and government relations council meetings with various topics and speakers.
FEDERAL ISSUES
Secure additional federal funding for infrastructure improvements within the Edmond Area.
TRANSPORTATION
Continue to support expedited funding in Eight-Year plan for Interstate 35 corridor improvements to ease congestion and improve safety
ECONOMIC GROWTH
Support innovative workforce and economic development policy to keep Edmond and Oklahoma competitive
EDUCATION
Advance legislation for funding and compensation for the hiring and retention of a qualified workforce, including PK-16 teachers, faculty, and staff
NEW MEMBERS Edmond Chamber
Indicates Marketer Level Members
4:19 Lawns
1224 NW 190th Pl, Edmond OK, 73012 405-334-3422
www 419lawns com
A Newark Firm, LLC
1019 Waterwood Pkwy Ste C, Edmond OK, 73034
866-230-7236
https://newarkfirm com
Ally Rocks Fund
513 Rolling Hills Terrace, Edmond OK, 73012
405-210-2853
http://www.allyrocks405.com
Alsco Uniforms
301 N Harvard Ave, Oklahoma City OK, 73127
405-403-4580 www.Alsco.com
Apex Fence & Construction LLC 9820 W Wilshire Blvd, Yukon OK, 73099
405-476-1123
www apexfenceok com
Basile & Associates, PLLC
3405 E Memorial Rd, Edmond OK, 73013 405-337-0015
www basileandassociates com
Boomtown Signs & Graphics Co
220 W. Wilshire Blvd., Suite F4, Oklahoma City OK, 73116
405-778-2299
boomtownsigns.com
Brandley Pest Control 711 Cedar Ave, Yukon OK, 73099
405-467-4771
www brandleypestcontrol com
BrightStar Care Edmond/Oklahoma City 3000 United Founders Blvd Ste 103G, Oklahoma City OK, 73112
405-896-9600
www brightstarcare com/edmond-
Brooke H. Unruh, PLLC
1930 S Bryant Ave, Edmond OK, 73013
405-768-1215
www.bhunruh.legal
Building Culture
3309 NW 21st St, Oklahoma City OK, 73107 346-234-3712
https://www.buildingculture.com/
Butcher House Meats & Market
3620 E I-35 Frontage Road, Edmond OK, 73013
405-808-2603
www.butcherhouseok.com
Career Center for The University of Oklahoma
900 Asp Avenue, Norman OK, 73019
405-325-1974
www ou edu/career
Cavins Group 1408 Fretz Ave. #4, Edmond OK, 73003
405-573-3048
https://cavinsgroup com
Chicken Salad Chick 14215 N Pennsylvania Ave, Oklahoma City OK, 73012
405-960-4035
chickensaladchick.com
CityVet Edmond
16325 N May Ave, Edmond OK, 73013
405-960-0030
https://www.cityvet.com/location/ed mond/
Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc
4700 Gaillardia Parkway, Suite 101, Oklahoma City OK, 73142
