NORTHWEST INDIANA — Crossroads Chamber, Northwest Indiana’s Chamber, held its 6th annual Business Excellence Awards, recognizing nine outstanding businesses and individuals from across the region. On March 12th at the Dean and Barbara White Center, business leaders, organizations, and community members gathered to celebrate the individuals and companies that actively shape the future of Northwest Indiana.
The annual ceremony began with nominations from the community, inviting recognition of notable individuals, organizations, and businesses making a lasting impact across nine award categories. The Business Excellence Awards serve as an initiative to honor leadership, innovation, community service, and the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to drive growth throughout Northwest Indiana.
“This year’s nominees represented the very best of the region, and each year this event reminds us of the incredible strength and collaboration that define Northwest Indiana,” said Deann Patena, IOM, CEO and President of Crossroads Chamber. “It’s inspiring to see so many individuals and organizations dedicated to making a meaningful impact in our community. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and the role they play in moving our region forward.”
Among the evening’s highlights was the presentation of the Community Volunteer of the Year Award, sponsored by Tradewinds. This award recognizes an individual who is dedicated and passionate about their role as a volunteer, consistently stepping up to serve and support the community.
“The event was fantastic, and it was an honor to present the Community Volunteer of the Year Award. What a great list of nominees,” said Lisa Tatina, Director of Development and Marketing at Tradewinds. “We are truly proud to be affiliated with the Crossroads Chamber.”
Also recognized was Kristina Fry, Vice President of Development for United Way Northwest Indiana, the recipient of the Business Leader of the Year Award. This award is presented to those who make an outstanding contribution to the success of their enterprise, influence the region beyond their organization, and demonstrate measurable achievements such as company growth, profitability or innovation.
“I am deeply humbled to be nominated and beyond honored to receive this award,” said Fry. “As a lifelong nonprofit professional, being considered alongside so many remarkable leaders in our region is meaningful in itself. This recognition reflects not just me, but the incredible team at United Way Northwest Indiana and our shared mission to improve lives and strengthen our community. I’m grateful to Crossroads, Northwest Indiana’s Chamber, for standing alongside us as we work together so Northwest Indiana can thrive.”
2026 Business Excellence Award Winners:
- Business Leader: Kristina Fry, United Way Northwest Indiana
- Business Success: Crossroads YMCA
- Non-Profit: Fair Haven Rape Crisis Center
- Minority Business: Saturday Sangria Bakery & Cafe
- Corporate Responsibility: Franciscan Health
- Community Volunteer of the Year: Jess Martinez-Garcia, Centier Bank
- Legacy Business: Regional Health Systems
- Young Entrepreneur: Amy Sexton Stanislavski, Plan and Gather Events
- Rising Star: Danielle Crowder, Franciscan Health
The Crossroads Chamber continues to champion the businesses, nonprofits, and leaders who are shaping the region’s economic and community landscape. Through events like the Business Excellence Awards, the organization remains committed to celebrating the achievements and partnerships that make Northwest Indiana a vibrant and connected business community.
