Business Excellence Awards

ANNUAL MEETING

Annual Meeting

The Waconia Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau Annual Meeting in January is a chance for membership to hear the State of the Chamber, celebrate the past year, hear what’s to come, and celebrate the recipients of the Business Excellence Awards and Ambassador of the Year.

The Business Excellence Awards celebrate outstanding individuals and businesses that demonstrated exceptional commitment, innovation, and service in the Waconia Community. These award categories replicate past chamber awards, originating in 1987 and running through 2003 before taking a hiatus. The Business Excellence Awards are nominated by the Waconia Chamber members and the community.

Community Service Impact Award

The Community Service Impact honor is awarded for creating a significant and positive impact on the community through acts of social responsibility and community service.

Waconia Lions Club

Service in Action: Rooted in the motto “Where there is a need, there is a Waconia Lion,” the club is dedicated to identifying local needs and responding with compassion, leadership, and action.
Community-Driven Programs: Signature initiatives include Take a Kid Fishing, High School Scholarships, Recycle for Sight, Wild Game Feed, Document Shredding, the Poinsettia Project, and support for military families.
Lasting Local Impact: Year after year, they show up—bringing people together, raising funds, and making tangible impact that strengthens our entire community.

Golden Apple Award

Mike Jensen, Waconia High School

Educator & Advocate: Mike Jensen goes beyond the classroom, serving as a connector and champion for students as they explore future paths.
Hands-On Leadership: Through dynamic teaching, leadership of the Conservation Club, and the Bayview Restoration Project, including securing a $50,000 grant, Mike impacts hundreds of students each year.
Inspiring Community Impact: Known for his infectious enthusiasm, Mike bridges education and career opportunity, creating lasting benefits for students and the broader community.

Business Person of the Year

Business Person of the Year is awarded for leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence in the business community.

Mike Phelps, Ridgeview

Healthcare Leadership: Since becoming President and CEO of Ridgeview in 2017, Mike Phelps has led the organization through major challenges while expanding access to high-quality care across the region.
Care Expansion & Innovation: His leadership brought a new Waconia Urgent Care, expanded specialty services, and soon, one of only three of the most advanced CT scanners in Minnesota.
Community Impact: Leading one of Waconia’s largest employers with nearly 1,500 staff (2,600 in total), Mike advances compassionate care, statewide healthcare advocacy, and local collaboration—strengthening the community’s future.

Spirit of Community

The Ambassador of the Year is nominated by the Waconia Chamber Ambassadors. It is based on overall commitment to the Chamber and the Ambassador program, including attendance at events, volunteer opportunities, and general positive impact on the Chamber and its member businesses.

Dee DeLange

Community Champion: Dee DeLange is a dedicated advocate for Waconia, serving as a past Chair of the Waconia Chamber Board of Directors and the Destination Waconia Tourism Board, as well as an active member of the Retail Committee.
Service Beyond Business: She consistently gives her time, energy, and expertise to tourism initiatives and efforts that strengthen and connect the local business community.
Meaningful Local Impact: Through her leadership and genuine care, Dee makes a lasting difference—helping make Waconia a better place to live, work, and visit.

Volunteer Appreciation Award

The Volunteer Appreciation honor is awarded by the Waconia Chamber of Commerce for exceptional service and commitment to community.

HomeTown Bank

This award celebrates HomeTown Bank’s incredible dedication and service to both the Chamber and our community. From setting up for Nickle Dickle Day and judging scarecrows to visiting new businesses, supporting Chamber events, fundraising for the 4th of July Fireworks, and serving on the board of directors—HTB is always ready to lend a helping hand. Thank you, HomeTown Bank, for making a difference in Waconia!

Pictured: HomeTown Bank staff Todd Hann, Susan Laumbach, Gary Fritz & Danielle Hedlof with Chamber President Christine Fenner (middle)