On June 22, 2022, the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses and individuals for their outstanding contributions to the Gilbert community and economy. In addition to celebrating these business professionals, the Chamber also acknowledged several dedicated volunteers from both the organization and its Foundation.
The Foundation Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes volunteers who give their time, energy, and support to the Foundation programs. This year’s recipients were Jenna Kahl of Chandler-Gilbert Community College and Jon Schmitt of the Arizona State University Polytechnic campus.
According to the Foundation, Kahl has been a major contributor to its success through her service on the Board of the Gilbert Leadership program, where she has helped to set processes and procedures into place for the evaluation and refining of the program. Additionally, Jenna serves as a member of the Business & Education Committee and has been a key partner in current discussions to form a Business Academy, bringing training and resources directly to our small and mid-size businesses. Jenna is an out-of-the box thinker with a get-it-done approach.
Schmitt has long been a key partner of the Foundation’s Business & Education Committee. As stated by the Foundation, he is a champion for collaboration with businesses and has been committed to not only listening to the workforce needs of local business and industry, but takes this information back to ASU to identify opportunities to further support the talent pipeline. Schmitt has helped to shape the Foundation’s annual Business & Education Summits as well as the Tours for Teachers and Career Shadowing Programs.
Thank you to the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Foundation and those who are dedicated to advancing the quality of life in Gilbert.