GOLDSBORO, N.C. — The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce celebrated a year of growth, service, and community impact during its Annual Dinner, held Friday evening, bringing together neighbors, business leaders, nonprofit champions, and community partners from across Wayne County.
The event honored individuals and organizations whose leadership and service strengthen the community, while also highlighting the Chamber’s accomplishments throughout 2025. Chamber leaders reflected on a year defined by connection, collaboration, and meaningful engagement.
In 2025, the Wayne County Chamber supported and engaged 432 volunteers, welcomed 75 new members, and hosted 41 events designed to connect businesses and community leaders. The Chamber also reached 105 participants in professional development programs and celebrated economic growth with 28 ribbon cuttings across the county.
The Chamber’s outreach and visibility continued to expand, with more than 1.1 million video views and over 10,000 followers across social media platforms, extending Wayne County’s story well beyond its borders.
Speakers during the evening echoed the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who said, “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” The Chamber’s 2025 award recipients were recognized as leaders who embody that message through their daily actions and unwavering commitment to others.
The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce 2025 Award recipients are:
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Small Business of the Year: Worrell Contracting Co., Inc.
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New Business of the Year: Kidnetix NC
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Ollie Toomey Volunteer of the Year: Juanita Curtis
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Under 40 Award: Grayson Hussey
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Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award: Sherry Archibald
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Community Effort of the Year: Habitat Goldsboro-Wayne
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The Order of the Long Leaf Pine: Henry Smith
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Cornerstone Award: Tommy Jarrett
The Chamber also recognized leadership transitions during the evening, thanking outgoing Chairman of the Board Harlon Neal for his service and welcoming Dr. Patty Pfeiffer as incoming Chairman of the Board.
The Annual Dinner served as a celebration of both achievement and service, reinforcing that Wayne County continues to thrive because of leaders who give with purpose, lead with humility, and invest in the success of others.
