Rowan Chamber Wins Regional Award for 100th Anniversary Marketing Campaign

Mar. 31, 2026

The Rowan Chamber of Commerce has been recognized by the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (CACCE) for excellence in communications, earning a 2026 Communication Excellence Award for its 100th Anniversary Marketing Campaign.

Sydney Murphy, the Chamber’s member services and marketing manager, accepted the award at the CACCE Staff Leadership Development Conference in Columbia, South Carolina.
These awards celebrate outstanding communications efforts by chambers of commerce across North Carolina and South Carolina, highlighting innovative strategies, compelling storytelling, and measurable impact in advancing their organizations and communities.

Awards were presented across four categories: Advertising & Marketing, Campaigns, Electronic, and Publications. Within each category, honors are awarded to the highest-scoring chambers in two membership tiers. Entries were evaluated based on originality, design and overall quality, and results achieved. Eligible submissions reflected communications initiatives developed or completed within the past 18 months.

In celebration of its 100th year, the Rowan Chamber launched a year-long, integrated marketing and communications campaign designed to honor its legacy, engage members and the broader community, and reinforce the Chamber’s role in the community.

The campaign combined digital media, social media, events, and on-site experiences to engage members and the community throughout the anniversary year. A dedicated landing page and the unveiling of a 100th anniversary logo served as central elements of the campaign’s branding and messaging.

Social media played a key role, with weekly “Throwback Thursday” posts highlighting historical milestones and encouraging member participation. This strategy drove strong results, with Facebook interactions increasing by 72 percent, link clicks by 42 percent, and page visits by 25 percent.

In-person events, including the Annual Gala and a 100th Anniversary “Birthday Party,” further reinforced the Chamber’s legacy and community connections. The campaign concluded at the 100th Annual Gala, featuring a year-in-review and recognition of long-standing businesses.

Other 2026 Communication Excellence Award recipients included:

Campaign Category
Under 700 Members
Wilson Chamber – March to 250 Fundraising Campaign

Over 700 Members
Rowan Chamber – 100th Anniversary Marketing Campaign

Electronic Category
Under 700 Members
Mint Hill Chamber – Feature Fridays Spotlight Video Series

Over 700 Members
Lexington Chamber & Visitors Center – Week of Restaurants Digital Program

Publication Category
Under 700 Members
Ashe County Chamber – Ashe County Guide

Over 700 Members
Greater Winston-Salem, Inc. – Industry & Community Insights Magazine