Jill Stevens Honored as 2024 Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year
Oxford Celebrates Its Philanthropic Superstar
Oxford-Jill Stevens, a dedicated philanthropist and volunteer, was the unsuspecting recipient of the 2024 Citizen of the Year award at the Oxford-Lafayette Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting Luncheon on Wednesday. Arriving, she anticipated enjoying lunch and being part of the audience cheering on winners. The surprise was when she discovered her family members at her table and her name being called for the year’s top honor.
A Year of Exceptional Citizen Service
Stevens was presented this prestigious award for her unwavering commitment to volunteer actions for numerous community and school nonprofits, notably Love Packs, a program dedicated to combating food insecurity among students. “Her commitment to serving others is truly inspiring. She goes above and beyond to support the students of our district,” read a nomination letter for Stevens.
Stevens, moved by the honor, expressed her deep affection for the city: “I have loved this city and the university since the day I stepped foot here in 1999 and it has loved me back so well”.
Half-Century-Long Tradition of Recognizing Exceptional Citizenship
The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce has, since 1972, been celebrating individuals contributing positively to the life of Oxford, Lafayette County, and the University of Mississippi via its Citizen of the Year award. Jason Plunk, the outgoing Chairman of the Board, reported impressive growth in the chamber’s budget and membership in the 2023-2024 fiscal year.
The Chamber: A Hub of Positive Change and Business Growth
Apart from the award to Stevens, the Chamber meeting also saw other honorary accolades bestowed. The highlights included the inauguration of the Small and Large Business of the Year Awards, appreciation for outstanding services, and the transfer of leadership to the incoming Chairman.
The Chamber, under the leadership of President and CEO Pam Swain, is looking forward to a rebranding move, inclusive of a new logo and an enhanced social media presence. Besides, renovations to the Chamber of Commerce building are on the agenda.
And The Winners Are…
- Ambassador of the Year: Collin Hill
- Outstanding Service Award: Jean and Randy Abrams>
- Inaugural Small Business of the Year Award: Michelle Rounsaville with My Michelle’s
- Inaugural Large Business of the Year Award: Mayor Robyn Tannehill and the city of Oxford
- Oxford/Lafayette County Business Icon Award: Neilson’s Department Store
A New Dawn for the Chamber
In conclusion, the luncheon wasn’t only about recognizing exceptional contributions but also looked towards the future as Jason Plunk passed on leadership to incoming 2024-2025 Chairman, Tony Deal, launching a new era for the Oxford-Lafayette Chamber of Commerce.
