West Hartford Chamber Announces Several Community Award Recipients

WEST HARTFORD, CT — The West Hartford Chamber of Commerce has announced the recipients of its 2026 Spotlight and Beacon Awards, recognizing business leaders, organizations and community members for their contributions to the town.

The awards will be presented during the Chamber's Annual Meeting and Spotlight Awards ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 22, in the auditorium at West Hartford Town Hall, 50 S. Main St.

"We're thrilled to bring this event back to West Hartford after many years in neighboring communities," Chamber President and CEO Chris Conway said in a statement. "It's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our award recipients while showcasing the restaurants and hospitality businesses that contribute so much to our community's character and success."

The annual event will also include the election of the Chamber's board of directors and a review of the organization's accomplishments over the past year.

Among the 2026 Spotlight Award recipients, Devonte Dillion of Dilligence Training and DT Cares will receive Entrepreneur of the Year honors for innovation and community impact.

Connecticut GI was selected as Business of the Year, while West Hartford Fellowship Housing will receive the Community Impact Award.

Daley Moving & Storage was chosen for the Legacy Award, recognizing more than 25 years of service and community involvement.

The Rising Star Award will be presented to Allie Bellucci of Bellu Jean Creative, and Jamie Rice of JQR Capital was named Chamber Volunteer of the Year.

The Chamber also announced two recipients of its Beacon Awards.

Laura Sheehan of Capital Classics Theatre Company will receive the Elizabeth Gustin Basil Women's Leadership Award, which honors women making significant leadership contributions in West Hartford. The award was established in 2022 and is named for the Chamber's first female chairperson.

Andrew and Joyce Mandell of the Mandell Family Foundation were selected to receive the Noah Webster Award, one of the Chamber's highest honors. Established in 1989, the award recognizes exceptional commitment and service to West Hartford and its residents.

"These award recipients embody the spirit of leadership, service, and community that makes West Hartford exceptional," said Kate Kobs, the Chamber's membership and development director. "We are honored to celebrate their achievements and the positive impact they have on our region."

The event is presented by PeoplesBank, with CLA, Connecticut GI, Liberty Bank and NBT Bank serving as gold sponsors.

Founded in 1908, the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce represents more than 600 businesses and nonprofit organizations across more than 50 Connecticut communities.

For more information on the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce's Spotlight Awards and Annual Meeting, click on this link.