The Gwinnett Chamber celebrated its seventy-fourth Annual Dinner at the Gas South District on Friday. The event, presented by Northside Hospital, recognized the business community’s success over the past year while honoring the exceptional public servants, corporate citizens, and compassionate organizations that lead it.

Sidney H. Theus, Chief Executive Officer of American Painting and Renovations, was the recipient of the 2021 Citizen of the Year Award, which honors individuals whose services have had the greatest impact on the overall quality of life for Gwinnett County in recent years.

Public Service Awards were given to individuals who had gone above and beyond in their service to the community and its residents. This year’s honorees included Jay Dennard, Chief Operating Officer, Northside Hospital Duluth; Jonathan Holmes, Managing Partner, Mighty 8th; Dr. Jann L. Joseph, President, Georgia Gwinnett College; and Representative Sam Park, Georgia State House District 101.

Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett received the D. Scott Hudgens Humanitarian Award given in honor of Scott Hudgens, a respected developer and philanthropist who unselfishly gave of his time and talents to ensure that many others, especially those with limited means, would benefit from his treasure.

And the R. Wayne Shackelford Legacy Award, honoring the memory and legacy of an individual who has made a difference in the history and progress of Gwinnett County, was awarded posthumously to James J. Maran, former President & CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber, L. Jim Steele, former Chief Operating Officer of Gwinnett County Public Schools, and Kelvin J. “Kelly” Kelkenberg, former Councilman for the City of Duluth.

The James J. Maran International Award recognizes a global company that has chosen to locate in Gwinnett, taking advantage of Gwinnett’s pro-business mindset, and has become an active member of the Chamber and the local community. Hettich America was this year’s International Award honoree.

“The success of the Gwinnett Chamber is only as good as the business community that supports it,” said Nick Masino, President & CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber. “Our continued growth and ability to invest back into our businesses is a testament to the accomplishments of our board leadership, members, investors, partners, and the entrepreneurial spirit for which Gwinnett is so well known. We are proud to champion business for the greater Gwinnett region and grateful for another year of success in that collective mission.”

A photo gallery will be available on the Chamber’s Facebook page in the coming days.