Press Release originally published by Rockville Chamber of Commerce on September 27, 2021
ROCKVILLE, MD — The Rockville Chamber of Commerce (RCC) annually recognizes its Rock Stars of the Year in the following categories: Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Non-Profit of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Young Professional of the Year and the Community Service Award. Following are this year’s winners in each category.
Small Business of the Year Award recognizes a company that has been in business for at least five years with revenue under $5M. Specific criteria include: flexibility, innovation and has a proven unique business and marketing strategy that has benefited the Rockville community. The 2021 Small Business of the Year is SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney. Presented by last year’s winner, Pam Clark of Clark Concepts.
Large Business of the Year recognizes a company committed to the vitality and community in Rockville, which has over 50 employees and over $5M in revenue. Specific criteria include: a commitment to their employees, their customers and has invested time, energy, and resources in the Rockville community. The 2021 Large Business of the Year is Marquis Health Services – Collingswood Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. Presented by last year’s winner, Dan Cochran of Adventist Healthcare, Shady Grove Medical Center.
The Non-Profit of the Year recognizes outstanding practices among Rockville’s diverse non-profit organizations. Specific criteria include success in creating a lasting and beneficial impact for Rockville residents and sets a strong example for other non-profits in the community. The 2021 Non-Profit of the Year is Charity Connect. Presented by previous award winner Andrea Kempner Wink, Community Reach of Montgomery County.
Entrepreneur of the Year recognizes a person who works for or operates a business taking on financial risk to do so, and identifies a need that no existing businesses address, and determines a solution for that need. Additionally, although the term “entrepreneur” is often associated with startups and small businesses, any founder of a successful household-named business began as an entrepreneur. Specific criteria include year over year growth, innovation, resilience, flexibility, and a unique business and marketing strategy, and a proven track record of commitment to the Rockville community and businesses. The 2021 Entrepreneur is Ryan Terko from Simply Nutrition. Presented by last year’s winner, Josh Funk of Rehab2Perform.
Young Professional of the Year recognizes an individual who is active in the Young Professional’s group of our Chamber and steps up to a leadership role within their organization. Specific criteria include tenacity and an exemplary commitment to the Rockville community and businesses. The 2021 Young Professional of the Year is Marcy Santos. Presented by Asif Choudhury, Bahar Consulting.
Community Service Award: RCC started this award in 2020 to recognize extraordinary efforts of individuals with a generous spirit. Bob Blanken of Blanken Photography Studio receives the 2021 Community Service Award of the Year. Presented by Board Chair, Babita Singh of WesBanco.
Award winners will be honored at a black-tie optional sit-down dinner at the Manor Country Club in Rockville on November 4, 2021. Tickets are available until October 28, 2021. Attendance is not exclusive to Chamber members. All business community members are encouraged to attend and celebrate the award winners.