Annual Gala
The Rowan Chamber's Annual Gala is recognized as one of the community’s premier events, bringing together leaders from business, government, philanthropy, and the nonprofit sector for an evening of celebration and connection.
The program includes the presentation of annual awards honoring outstanding businesses and individuals, the ceremonial passing of leadership within the organization, and a sit-down dinner accompanied by opportunities for networking.
The Gala serves as both a celebration of achievement and a gathering of community leaders, marking an important moment each year in the organization’s history.
Save the Date for Our 100th Annual Gala on January 29, 2026!
The Rowan Chamber of Commerce invites you to our 100th Annual Gala, presented by Novant Health, on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Rowan Community Center.
This year’s theme, “Century of Success,” honors a milestone moment in our history as we reflect on the past and look ahead to the future.
The evening will include:
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The Annual Awards Ceremony, recognizing outstanding business and community leaders with honors like Small Business of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Young Professional of the Year, Minority Business of the Year, and the Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award.
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The Passing of the Gavel, from 2025 Board Chair Steve Fisher (F&M Bank) to 2026 Board Chair Starling Johnson Kaklamanos (Johnson Concrete).
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A sit-down dinner and plenty of time to connect and network with fellow Chamber members and community leaders.
Dress code: Black tie optional. Guests are encouraged to wear black, white, or gold in celebration of the 100th year.
Join us for an evening of recognition, connection, and celebration as we mark 100 years of success together!
RSVP by Friday, January 9, 2026 to secure your spot at this milestone celebration.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Novant Health
- Title Sponsor Display Table, Title Sponsor Logo on Wallpaper Photo Staging Area, Title Sponsor Banquet Table with eight premier seats at front table “A”, Top Recognition in all Annual Gala related promotions, Company logo featured on large screens during the program, Top Sponsor Logo listing in the program, Complimentary drink tickets (two per person)
Catawba College, Duke Energy, F&M Bank, Global Contact Services, Johnson Concrete Products
- Program Sponsor table with eight seats in the “B” section of tables, Company logo on large screens during the program, Complimentary drink tickets (two per person)
Opportunities Still Available
- Corporate Sponsor table with eight seats in the “C” section of tables, Company name on large screens during the program, Complimentary drink tickets (two per person)
2026 Annual Awards
Nominate a business or individual for the 2026 Annual Awards. The Rowan Chamber will present awards for the Young Professional of the Year, Paul E. Fisher Chamber Volunteer of the Year, Chamber Champion Small Business of the Year, Minority Business of the Year, and Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award.
Nominations are due by December 5, 2025.