Guest ContributorThe Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry on Tuesday night hosted its 2025 Annual Awards Celebration, bringing together business and civic leaders to honor individuals and organizations that are shaping the state’s economic future.
This year’s honorees included standout corporate citizens, volunteer leaders, and lawmakers whose work is making Arizona more competitive, prosperous, and business-friendly.
2025 Award Recipients:
- Top Newsmaker Award: TSMC Arizona
- Best City for Business Award: The City of Glendale
- Doug Yonko Volunteer of the Year: Dave Howell, Wells Fargo
- Corporate Citizen of the Year: Arizona Complete Health
- Outstanding Membership Ambassador: Jimmy Lindblom, Willmeng Construction
- Senator of the Year: Sen. Vince Leach (R-SaddleBrooke)
- Representative of the Year: Rep. Tony Rivero (R-Peoria)
- Representative of the Year: Rep. Alma Hernandez (D-Tucson)
“The strength of Arizona’s economy is the result of bold vision, tireless leadership, and a commitment to free enterprise,” Chamber President and CEO Danny Seiden said. “This year’s honorees embody the spirit of innovation and civic dedication that continues to drive Arizona forward.”
Seiden thanked board members Dave Howell of Wells Fargo and Jimmy Lindblom of Willmeng for their service. Howell will be cycling off the board of directors this year after nearly two decades of service.
“Both Dave and Jimmy are model board members,” Seiden said. “They’re excellent business community ambassadors and staunch advocates for the work of the Chamber. Jimmy’s efforts to recruit members ensure we have a bright future, while Dave’s years of dedication to this organization have left us with a strong foundation to build on.”
Seiden said the recognition of TSMC and Arizona Complete Health were examples of two companies making a positive mark on Arizona.
“TSMC is literally changing the global economy. That it chose Arizona for its groundbreaking work is testament to how business and government can work together to build a stronger, more resilient economy. Meanwhile, Arizona Complete Health has long been recognized as an outstanding corporate citizen, helping to make health care in Arizona more affordable and more accessible.”
Seiden said he was especially excited to honor the City of Glendale as the Best City for Business.
“It’s always great to see local government leaders make an intentional, concerted effort to attract more jobs,” Seiden said. “That’s exactly what Glendale is doing. Mayor Jerry Weiers, the City Council, and his entire team are consistently looking for ways to make it easier to invest in Glendale. I’m also pleased that the mayor and his colleagues are standing up to outside interests that have attempted to slow economic development in Glendale. The mayor and his team can count on the Chamber to ensure the city remains welcoming to job creation.”
Accepting the award were Weiers and City Manager Kevin Phelps.
“Here in Glendale, we’ve long believed that we are one of the most business-friendly cities in Arizona. What makes this award especially meaningful is that it validates that belief, not just internally, but from the Arizona Chamber of Commerce, the state’s leading voice for the business community,” Phelps said. “It’s a powerful endorsement of the work we’ve done to create a thriving, supportive environment for businesses of all sizes.”
The event also spotlighted state lawmakers who have been instrumental in advancing policies that support job growth and economic resilience.
“We were proud to recognize elected officials who understand the link between a healthy business environment and quality of life,” said Courtney Coolidge, the Chamber’s executive vice president. “Senator Vince Leach, Representative Tony Rivero, and Representative Alma Hernandez each bring a thoughtful, results-driven approach to the Legislature. Their leadership is helping Arizona thrive.”
For more information about the Arizona Chamber’s events and advocacy, visit www.azchamber.com.
Danny Seiden
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