Under a golden sunset in the heart of downtown Albany, the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 115th Annual Meeting on Monday evening with a high- energy street dance and a powerful program honoring progress, partnerships, and community leadership. Presented by the City of Albany and the Medical College of Georgia, the event drew hundreds of business leaders, elected officials, and community partners to Pine Avenue for an unforgettable celebration of Albany’s momentum.

“This community is charting a bold path forward — and it’s powered by our Chamber members, stakeholders, and volunteers,” said Matt Reed, Interim President & CEO of the Albany Area Chamber. “This event was about celebrating our collective wins this past year and the work ahead. The Chamber doesn’t just serve businesses — we help set the table - cultivating relationships and building the programs with feedback from our community to create a better Albany.”

The evening opened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Sherwood Church Pastor and Chamber board member Ken Bevel, followed by the presentation of colors by the Albany Young Marines and a stunning performance of the national anthem by Troy University’s Sarah Jane Houston.

The 115th Annual Meeting highlighted the Chamber’s significant work over the past year — including the continuation of ImpactABY2026, the Chamber’s bold strategic plan focused on talent, business advocacy, and innovation. The Chamber and its Foundation continue to strengthen the region’s workforce, support businesses, and invest in the next generation of leaders.

The program included a formal leadership transition as Jeretha Peters, 2024 Board Chair, passed the gavel to incoming 2025 Chair Smith Wilson of Gardner, Willis, Plaire & Wilson. Peters was honored for her historic tenure, during which the Chamber earned its prestigious 5- star accreditation — a recognition held by fewer than 2% of chambers nationwide.

“Jeretha’s impact has set a new standard for what this Chamber can achieve,” said Smith Wilson, 2025 Chair. “As we move forward, we do so with a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and long-term growth. Albany’s best days are ahead of us.”

The Chamber also recognized several outstanding individuals for their service and leadership:

• Lauren Jones of Express Disposal was named the 2024 Chamber Ambassador of the Year, representing the dedicated volunteers who show up daily for Chamber programs and member support.

• Kristen Hill of Albany State University was honored as the 2025 Albany Under 40 Overall Award Winner, recognized for her excellence in nursing education and her innovation in student development.

• Cynthia Merchant received the Lifetime Service Award, honoring her legacy of leadership and service to the Albany community.

Attendees were also treated to remarks from Mayor Bo Dorough, Dr. Doug Patten and Dr. Koosh Desai of the Medical College of Georgia Southwest Campus, and updates from each of the Chamber’s strategic committees, who focus on the Chamber’s four key focus areas: Talent Catalyst, Investor Engagement, Government Affairs, and Military Affairs.

The celebration concluded with live entertainment by The Essence Band, who turned Pine Avenue into an open-air dance floor for the Dancin’ in the Street after-party, with extended evening festivities hosted by The Flint.

The success of the 115th Annual Meeting was made possible by the generous support of its sponsors:

• Presenting Sponsors: City of Albany and Medical College of Georgia

• Venue Sponsor: Downtown Albany

• Reception Sponsors: Invision Technologies and Molson Coors

• Entertainment Sponsors: Flint River Entertainment Company and NextEra Energy

• Food & Beverage Sponsors: Express Disposal, Smile Doctors, Pellicano Construction,
SoftDev, Mitchelle EMC and Dougherty County.

• Awards Sponsors: Fleming & Riles and Albany Technical College

• Transportation & Parking Sponsor: Albany Area Primary HealthCare

Reed closed the evening by recognizing Chamber staff and volunteers, emphasizing the team’s commitment to serve and help foster the success of the community. “We believe in Albany. We believe in better. We’re here to build a place where businesses thrive, where people want to live, and where futures are made.”

As the city danced under the stars, the Albany Area Chamber celebrated 115 years of impact — and took bold steps toward the next 115. Onward!