Each year, the Carroll Chamber of Commerce recognizes a public or government employee or organization who goes above and beyond the requirements of their position to better the lives of residents in the communities they serve. Because last year’s banquet was canceled due to COVID, the 2020 and 2021 award winners were announced at the Chamber’s annual banquet on Wednesday. Carroll High School Instructor, Becky Boes, outlines the characteristics that make custodian, Mark Skillen, the clear choice for community recognition.
Boes adds Skillen goes out of his way to learn students’ names, leave tokens of appreciation for fellow staff members, and make the world a better place. Skillen says he is incredibly honored to receive 2020’s Public Service Award.
Former Chamber Director, CJ Niles, introduced the 2021 Public Service Award recipient and said this individual has public service ingrained in their DNA through extensive knowledge of grant programs, legislative processes, transportation concerns, and much more. Niles describes this year’s winner as a true friend to Carroll.
Hunsaker thanked the Chamber for the recognition, but he credits the staff, community members, and government officials he works with for the many programs and initiatives that have made Carroll the place it is today.
Nine other awards were presented at Wednesday’s Carroll Chamber of Commerce annual banquet. The full list of winners can be found below.
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New Business (2020): I Saw the Sign
New Business (2021): Riesberg Audio
Heritage Business (2020): Fusion Dance
Heritage Business (2021): New Hope
Humanitarian Award (2020): Luanne Kustra
Humanitarian Award (2021): St. John Lutheran Church Community Meal Committee
Good Neighbor (2020): Bill Schrad
Public Service (2020): Mark Skillen
Public Service (2021): Rick Hunsaker
Citizen of the Year (2020): Carol Gronstal
Citizen of the Year (2021): Mary Swanson
