Annual Awards Criteria
Lifetime Achievement Award
This award recognizes a person in Hot Spring County who has made contributions over a significant number of years by way of his/her career and/or volunteer work. Contributions may be demonstrated by years of service, improvements realized in the workplace or community, involvement in community affairs, accomplishments through leadership, and setting a positive example for others.
Young Person of the Year
This award recognizes the outstanding achievements and contributions of young people in our community, and the winner will be presented a $1,000 scholarship. A nominee will be a Hot Spring County high school senior planning to attend college or trade school. Nominees should exhibit all or some of the following: leadership ability, contribution to community, involvement in school, achievement, and volunteerism.
Educator of the Year
This award recognizes an educator from Hot Spring County who truly goes above and beyond his/her job description and requirements in order to educate and positively influence the students he/she serves. Criteria to be considered will include education and studies, years of service, support of school and community, innovation, and anything that demonstrates a unique and strong desire to inspire.
Community Organization of the Year
This award is open to active organizations, clubs, nonprofits, and other groups that are giving back and working to improve the quality of life in Malvern and the communities of Hot Spring County. Emphasis should be placed on the organization's current and recent community service activities and accomplishments, but past service may also be considered. Nominees demonstrate positive community impact as a result of the group's efforts.
Small Business of the Year
This award is presented to a Hot Spring County area business with 25 or fewer employees that has made significant contributions to local economic and community development through growth and achievement. Consideration will be given to demonstrated business excellence, ethics, employee development, customer relations, and community service. Chamber Member businesses in good standing are eligible.
Large Business of the Year
This award is presented to a Hot Spring County area business with over 25 employees that has made significant contributions to local economic and community development through growth and achievement. Consideration will be given to demonstrated business excellence, ethics, employee development, customer relations, and community service. Chamber Member businesses in good standing are eligible.
Kristi Parker Norris Community Service Award
This award is presented to a person in Hot Spring County who freely donates time and talent for the benefit of others in the community. This person may be a leader and visionary who takes action, encourages others, and is known for getting things done; or this person may be a quiet, behind-the-scenes individual who consistently volunteers hours upon hours in selfless dedication. This person exemplifies service beyond self.
First Responder of the Year
This award is presented to a First Responder who works in Hot Spring County in law enforcement, firefighting, or emergency medical services. This individual is a well-rounded contributor to the team and exceeds the requirements of his/her position. He/she exemplifies the virtues of professionalism and dedication and demonstrates a distinct pattern of community service. Other considerations could include commitment to society and profession, demonstrated leadership, and acts of heroism or selflessness.
Healthcare Worker of the Year
This award is presented to a healthcare professional who works in Hot Spring County. This certified/licensed individual may work in any healthcare field in any local setting. He/she is compassionate, dedicated, and makes the health and wellness of his/her patients the number one priority. Consideration will be given to professional development, “bed-side manner," and care for others.
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