Brian Lacy, right, presents the Ambassador of the Year Award to Better Business Bureau Area Manager Jacqueline Schendel.

Robin Cummings was recognized for his work in the community Thursday night when he was awarded the Emma Marie Eddleman Citizenship Award during the 76th Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Gala.

The Eddleman Award is given annually to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the community and the Chamber. Cummings is a worthy addition to the list of recipients, said incoming Chamber Board Chair T.J. Franey.

Franey said Cummings has served as Peoples Bank CEO for 36 years, and has led the bank in its growth from just a handful of employees to more than 270 across seven counties in Alabama, and has also worked in the Chamber and community by serving on several boards and charitable organizations.

His drive and determination that he has shown in the community has also helped him in his recovery from a stroke he suffered in 2016, and he has continued to exceed his doctors’ expectations, Franey said.

“The same drive to go the extra mile that got him where he is today, has helped him reach countless new goals,” she said.

The Lucille Galin Public Service Award, given annually to a non-elected member of the community who excelled in their field and made a significant contribution to the community and its people, was awarded to former United Way of Cullman County Executive Director Sammie Danford.

Danford, who retired from her position in September, said it was an honor and privilege to be a part of the chamber and work to help the people of Cullman County.

“I’m flattered and honored,” she said. “Everything I’ve done for this community has come from the heart. I love this community.”

The gala also featured the presentation of awards that honored other individuals and companies who serve the community and the Chamber.

The 2018 Small Business of the Year Award went to a business that has been making waves since its founding in 2015, Goat Island Brewing. The Ambassador of the Year Award went to the Better Business Bureau’s Jacqueline Schendel.

The annual meeting also saw the recognition of the outgoing and incoming Chamber board members, along with the official passing of the gavel to Franey from outgoing Chamber Board Chair Susan Copeland.

Franey said the current success that Cullman County is experiencing comes from the leadership of past community members who were able to look to the future and make plans

She said she is looking forward to working with Chamber members and the rest of the community on the Chamber’s current strategic plan, which should allow the area to continue the success that past leaders have enabled and set the stage for future leaders.

“Let us stay focused on what’s best for our community as a whole,” she said. “We have been blessed with unique gifts and talents, and may we each use them to work through the challenges that may come our way while focusing on progress and prosperity for the future.”