Celebrating local excellence: Wooster Area Chamber to honor 2026 award recipients

Each year the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce gathers its members for the annual dinner, an evening dedicated to reflection, connection and celebration. The event serves as an opportunity to recognize the progress made over the past year while looking ahead to the future of the Wooster-area business community. This year’s annual dinner will take place Feb. 26, highlighting the accomplishments and leadership of the 2026 award recipients.

The individuals and organizations being recognized this year exemplify the values that strengthen the community. Through service, innovation and a shared commitment to Wooster, they have played a vital role in advancing the chamber’s mission and contributing to the continued success of the region.

Michael Pallotta, 2009 chamber board chair, will be honored as the 2026 Wall of Fame recipient, recognizing a lifetime of leadership, relationship-driven business and commitment to the Wooster community. For more than three decades, Pallotta has reinvested his time, resources and expertise into Wooster through business growth, philanthropic support and service to the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce, leaving a lasting impact on both the business and civic life of the community.

The Apple Creek Banking Company is recognized as the 2026 Business of the Year, honored for more than a century of trusted service, steady growth and meaningful investment in the communities it serves. For 122 years the locally owned, independent community bank has supported individuals, families and businesses through relationship-driven banking, local decision-making, and a long-standing commitment to employee well-being, economic stability and community involvement across Wayne, Stark, Summit and surrounding counties.

The 2026 Jack O’Donnell Award for Community Service will be presented to Corbett Coots, recognized for his lifelong dedication to Wooster through hands-on volunteerism and community support. Coots has contributed extensively to local schools, youth athletics, and nonprofits including the YMCA, O’Huddle, Wayne County Humane Society, Wooster Exchange Club and West View Manor, as well as leading Bowman Beverage’s annual 5-0 Cookout to benefit families and first responders.

Joe Reynolds is the recipient of the 2026 Mike Lezak Award for Volunteer Service, honored for his commitment to the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce through active participation on committees, at events and in chamber initiatives throughout the year. Reynolds has lent his support to signature events like Woosterfest and a variety of other chamber efforts, consistently contributing behind the scenes to ensure their success.

Melanie Garcia will receive the 2026 Leadership Wooster Distinguished Alumni Award, recognized for her leadership, dedication to fostering connections and lasting contributions to the Wooster community. A graduate of the 2011 Leadership Wooster program, Garcia continues to give back through her involvement with the Wayne County Community Foundation and numerous local organizations, guiding others while promoting collaboration, community engagement and initiatives that enhance the quality of life across the region.

The Killbuck Savings Bank Company will be recognized with the 2026 Board of Directors Award, honoring its dedication to excellence, community reinvestment and volunteer service. Since its founding in 1900, the bank has grown to 12 branches across Holmes, Wayne, Knox and Tuscarawas counties, maintaining a locally focused approach that combines financial services with a culture of employee engagement and giving back.

The 2026 Small Business of the Year (15 Employees or Fewer) will be presented to Murr Printing & Graphics, recognized for its decades-long dedication to the Wooster community, commitment to quality service and support of local businesses. Founded in 1980, the family-owned shop provides printing, graphic design and marketing services while maintaining an employee-focused atmosphere and giving back through involvement with local organizations and the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce.

Gregg Orthodontics will be honored with the 2026 Small Business of the Year (Greater than 15 Employees), recognized for its commitment to patient care, creating positive experiences and giving back to the Wooster community. Led by Dr. Ben Gregg and a team of 20 professionals, the practice combines orthodontic services with a culture of community engagement, supporting local schools, youth programs and nonprofits while fostering a relationship-focused environment for patients and employees alike.

The YMCA will receive the 2026 WorthyWorks Award, in partnership with the Wayne County Community Foundation, recognized for its longstanding dedication to improving the quality of life in Wayne County through programs that promote youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The organization serves as a trusted community partner, providing childcare, fitness, wellness, aquatics and senior programming while collaborating with schools, nonprofits and local organizations to meet evolving community needs and create inclusive spaces where everyone feels a sense of belonging.