2026 Annual Membership Meeting Recap and Awards – Igniting the Future

On April 14, the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed over 600 guests to its sold out 2026 Annual Membership Meeting at the Dayton Convention Center. This year’s theme was “Igniting the Future – Talent, Leadership, Momentum.”

The chamber’s largest signature event of the year, the Membership Meetings are an opportunity to reflect on the past year, honor members and look forward to what lies ahead for business in the 14-county region the chamber serves. With 2,200 members, the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce continues to be among the top 25 largest chambers in the nation and is one of the 3% of chambers of commerce nationally with a 5-star accreditation, as awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The meeting was kicked off with a welcome from Chris Kershner, President & CEO of the chamber, followed by the 2025 Year in Review by 2025 Chair of the Board of Trustees Dave McNerney, and the 2026 Outlook by 2026 Chair of the Board of Trustees Judy Budi. The keynote panel featuring Isabel Herrera – AES Ohio, Sam Tunnacliffe – Shook Construction, and moderator Reggie Stover – Henny Penny, shared insights on nurturing and supporting early career professionals that will someday be the leaders of organizations throughout the Dayton region.

Award Recipients
– Marty Grunder – Phillip L. Parker Volunteer of the Year
– Congressman Mike Turner – John H. Patterson Partner Award
– Shook Construction – Soin Award for Community Impact

Videos
– 2025 Annual Report
– 2026 Soin Award for Community Impact