Chamber honors Brooks with Lifetime Achievement Award during Celebrate Business Event
By RUBEN IBARRA JR.
The Lufkin Daily News
Dr. Vivian Brooks received the Lifetime Achievement Award Thursday night as the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce gathered local leaders, business owners and community supporters for its fourth annual Celebrate Business: The Chamber Business Awards.
Hosted by Tara Watson-Watkins and Lin Lentz, the event celebrated the achievements of local businesses, nonprofits and standout individuals.
Brooks, upon receiving the final award of the night, reflected on his journey from Jamaica to Lufkin. He praised his colleagues, family and community, expressing deep gratitude for a career he described as “the finest work of my life.”
The event began with acknowledgment of the event sponsors, including CityWidePromo.com, MSGPR, and others who helped make the celebration possible. Chad Roberts of CityWidePromo.com, spoke briefly on the importance of supporting local businesses.
“Lonnie and I have sponsored this event for many years now, and we’re privileged to do so,” Roberts said. “All the girls at the Chamber have done a wonderful job supporting you as a working Chamber.”
The first award of the evening, Diplomat of the Year, was presented to Lisa Crow of Timber County Real Estate, recognized for her outstanding volunteer hours and dedication.
“This is truly an honor, and serving as a diplomat has been incredibly rewarding. Thank you to the Chamber for the recognition and giving the opportunity to make a difference,” she said.
Local nonprofits were also honored, with the Non-Profit of the Year award going to the Christian Information & Service Center (CISC). The nonprofit was praised for its work addressing food insecurity and supporting more than 90,000 clients in need through various programs. Vice president David Davlin accepted the award, expressing gratitude to donors, executive director Yulonda Richard and the dedicated volunteers.
“This award is because of you, not because of me on the board,” he said.
Recognizing the contributions of small businesses, The Big Picture Events was awarded Small Business of the year for its exceptional service in photography and event coverage. Barb Havard, owner of The Big Picture, thanked the community for its support.
“I just want to thank the community. I could not do this without your support.”
Best Western Crown Colony Inn and Suites, Sleep Inn & Main Stay Suites and The Lufkin Daily News competed for Medium Business of the Year, with The Lufkin Daily News taking the title.
The Large Business of the Year award was presented to Chick-fil-A South Loop Crossing, recognized not only for its business but also for its significant community contributions. Julie Walker, owner of the Chick-fil-A location, credited her 80 employees for the business’ success.
“They make it happen every day at Chick-fil-A,” she said, adding that her work is a blessing. 
Other notable winners were David Flowers, superintendent of Huntington ISD, who was awarded Chamber Champion for his role in local development and his commitment to the well-being of his community. He described the award as a highlight of his career, saying, “It’s about serving, the journey and leaving a legacy.”
The Catalyst of the Year award was awarded to Oncor Electric Delivery and Nolan Smith for their commitment to delivering support across East Texas. As a key leader, Smith has worked tirelessly to ensure the company’s operations reflect their strong commitment to service.
“Truly it’s an honor,” Smith said. “I appreciate it and thank everyone for that.”
Partners for Rural Impact, an organization that aims to create opportunities for rural youth, was honored as Advocate for Opportunity. Jeff Walker accepted the award and urged guests to use their recourses to help bridge gaps in the community.
“We are making a difference daily for kids in spaces where people are not advocating for them,” he said.
The Diversity in Business award was presented to Rudy Flores, founder of the “Dancing with the Stars Lufkin” fundraiser and his nonprofit, Mi Herencia. Flores, the son of migrant farmworkers, described his passion for uplifting the community.
“Support the people who are already doing the great work in Lufkin,” he said.
Healthcare contributions were also highlighted, with Nurse of the Year awarded to Jamiee Varner, a pediatric nurse practitioner for her decades of dedication to local children. Varner expressed gratitude to her patients, team and family for supporting her journey.
“Pediatrics is truly my passion,” she said, encouraging her daughters to “live with purpose” and pursue their dreams.
The Individual of Merit award was given to Shanda Keeley of Angelina College for her efforts in expanding nurse aide training and creating valuable partnerships with health care providers. Keely thanked the local partnerships that make the program possible, as well as “all our healthcare heroes” who bring healing to the community.
Healthcare Professional of the Year went to Dr. Art. Jordan, who has served as a dentist for more than 30 years. He was honored for his extensive service and mentorship within the local dental community.
“I love what I do,” he said. “God put me here to do it.”
Jordan added that he hopes to continue his work for many years.
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