Inaugural Future Forward Awards Announced

Hi, this is Chris Swecker, Executive Director of the Highland County Chamber of Commerce, and we’re proud to partner with the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge and the Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce to announce the launch of the inaugural Future Forward Awards, a new regional recognition program celebrating outstanding young professionals who are making a difference in their workplaces, communities, and organizations.

The Future Forward Awards will honor a select group of individuals under the age of 40 who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professional achievement, community involvement, and service to the region. Designed to recognize both career success and civic impact, the awards will spotlight the next generation of leaders helping shape the future of the Central Blue Ridge region. Recipients will be selected through a competitive application and review process by an independent panel of judges. Candidates will be evaluated on professional accomplishments, leadership, volunteerism, board and civic engagement, and their overall contributions to the communities they serve. Eligible nominees must be under the age of 40 as of December 31, 2026, live or work within Augusta County, Highland County, Staunton, or Waynesboro; demonstrate significant professional achievement and leadership, and show a commitment to community service and civic engagement. Honorees will be recognized at a special Future Forward Awards celebration on September 16th, where community leaders, employers, family members, and supporters will gather to celebrate their achievements.

Now, this program is about recognizing the individuals who are already making a difference and encouraging them to continue leading our region forward. Our communities are stronger because of people who invest their time, talents, and energy into making them a better place to live and work. So, we’re hopeful that we get people, obviously from Highland County as well as our surrounding region, to take part in these first ever awards. Nominations will be accepted through August 31st, 2026. So go on and don’t be shy. If you’re under 40, take a step and apply today.

To learn more about the Future Forward Awards and to submit your nomination, visit augustava.com.

For Allegheny Mountain Radio, this is Chris Swecker with the Highland County Chamber of Commerce.