Driving Dickinson County
DICKINSON COUNTY - More than 200 business leaders, nonprofit partners, elected officials, and community members gathered February 21 at Sand Springs Venue for Driving Dickinson County’s 2026 Annual Gala & Best of the Best Awards, a sold-out event recognizing excellence across the region.
With 76 nominees across 11 award categories, the evening honored individuals, organizations, and businesses helping drive economic growth and community impact throughout Dickinson County.
2025 Best of the Best Award Recipients
The following businesses and individuals were recognized at the 2026 Annual Gala:
· Business of the Year: Almost Home Realty
· Employee of the Year: Katie Faulkner
· Community Catalyst of the Year: Ross Taplin
· Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Chris Krenzin, 7-Ate-5
· Best Professional Business: State Farm – Amanda West
· Best Non-Profit / Government Organization: The Hope Center
· Best Customer Service: Abilene Animal Hospital
· Best Hospitality: M&R Grill
· Best Retail Business: Wilkens Acres
· Best Storefront: Wildflowers
· Best Trade: Wilson Bulk Transport
Almost Home Realty owner Shelly Crane said the recognition represents more than business success.
“Every home purchase or sale represents someone choosing to live, work, and invest in Dickinson County,” Crane said. “We view this recognition not as a finish line, but as encouragement to continue raising the standard of service and helping our community grow.”
The Gala marked CEO Natalie Muruato’s first as leader of the organization.
“The energy in the room reflected a community that is engaged, collaborative, and proud of the progress happening across Dickinson County,” Muruato said. “When we publicly recognize excellence, we strengthen visibility, confidence, and long-term economic momentum for our region.”
Board Chair Kenny Roelofsen emphasized the broader significance of the awards.
“The caliber of this year’s nominees and recipients speaks volumes about the strength of our local business climate,” Roelofsen said. “Collaboration between private business, nonprofit organizations, and community partners drives sustainable growth.”
The evening also included the unveiling of Driving Dickinson County’s refreshed brand identity — a milestone underscoring the organization’s continued focus on forward direction and regional collaboration.
“This wasn’t just about modernizing a logo,” said Jackie Hynes, Events & Marketing Director. “It was about visually capturing who we are and where we’re headed — intentionally, collaboratively, and with purpose.”
The 2026 Gala was made possible through the support of community partners and sponsors, including Twin Valley, Holm Automotive, Lucinda’s Katering, Michela Brown Photography, The Renaissance Jazz Group, and Don’s Tires, which provided decorative elements reflecting the event’s “Driving” theme.
For a full recap and photo gallery, visit: https://www.dkedc.com/business/2025-business-best-of-the-best