Madison Chamber lauds top achievers at Holiday Membership Party
MADISON – The night was theirs as Madison Chamber of Commerce honored a slate of top achievers who boost Madison’s status. The chamber’s Holiday Membership Party was the occasion for unveiling winning candidates.
“What a night!” Chamber President Michelle Epling said. “Our 2025 annual Holiday Membership Party at the Jackson Center was one to remember. It was an evening filled with celebration, connection and holiday cheer as we reflected on another incredible year for the Madison Chamber and our business community.”
In the week leading up to the party, chamber members nominated and then voted on choices for honorees in the fields of manufacturing, social services, volunteering, philanthropy, construction and education.
“We were proud to honor the outstanding individuals who make Madison shine,” Epling said about 2025 winners:
• Young Professional of the Year, Fathia Hardy with Mazda Toyota Manufacturing — Hardy works as Learning and Development Specialist at Mazda Toyota. Previously, she served as Director of Outreach and Support Services at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
• Citizen of the Year, Lee Marshall with Kids to Love – A well-known and popular personality, Marshall formerly worked as a TV news anchor. Marshall founded and is CEO of Kids to Love, a non-profit organization that cares for day-to-day well-being of children in foster care.
• Veteran Business Owner of the Year, Sam Bertling – Co-founded Legacy 4 Korean War Veterans Foundation with wife K.C. The 501(c)3 charity honors and recognizes Korean War veterans and instills patriotism in future leaders.
• Businessperson of the Year (Less than 15 employees), Brenda Matthews with Bellehouse – Matthews is co-owner of Bellehouse, a historic, upscale, indoor/outdoor event venue for downtown Madison. Its gallery features a 45-feet-by-25-feet space, high ceilings and gather- ing area.
• Businessperson of the Year (More than 15 employees), Lauren Marsh with Ridgeline Construction Roofing & Exteriors — Marsh is President, Co-Founder and General Contractor for the turnkey roofing service. Marsh realized a significant service gap in the industry for reliable roofers and co-founded Ridgeland with her husband.
• Creator of the Year, Kevin Huey with Make It Personal – Huey works as a graphic designer for this company in Huntsville and Madison that specializes in custom apparel, promotional products and personalized gifts.
• Education Impact Award Winner, LaTisha King – A charter employee with Madison City Schools, King has worked as Executive Assistant to the Superintendent and School Board for about 25 years. She also chairs United Way outreach for the district.
• Ambassador of the Year, Kami Minor with Frazier & Deeter — Minor is Director of Field Marketing for the firm. Her responsibilities include managing the marketing and communications for social media and website development.
• Chamber Champion, Lee Shaw with Madison City Schools — Shaw works as Development Office Coordinator for the Madison district. Her work in this capacity involves coordination of various development activities to benefit the system.
“Thank you . . . to all who continue to make Madison a thriving place to live, work and grow,” Epling said.
