John Mangum and Ginger Walle, our 2018 recipients

Our Story

The Man and Woman of the Year awards started in 1958, when the Chamber of Commerce wanted to recognize the volunteer activity to enhance jobs in Union County and voted to name a Man of the Year for outstanding community involvement and leadership. 

In all, 62 men have been honored with the award. 

Dr. Paul Helms was the first man to be recognized. Each year thereafter, the award was presented to other men who were extraordinary volunteer leaders in Union County. Three years later, the Chamber turned the selection over to past award winners. 

In 1985, the Chamber selected the first Woman of the Year, Ruth Sikes Haigler, for her outstanding volunteer service and for the next few years selected additional deserving women. During the fourth year, the Chamber turned the selection over to previous recipients to carry the program forward as it had done with the men.

To date, 35 women have been honored.