Spirit of Erie
One Night. A Lasting Impact.
The Spirit of Erie is the Erie Regional Chamber's annual signature event, bringing together business leaders, civic champions, and community builders for an evening that celebrates the people and organizations shaping our region's future.
Each year, the Chamber recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations whose leadership, innovation, and service are making a lasting impact across the Erie region.
If you attend only one Chamber event each year, make it this one.
2026 Honorees
The Spirit of Erie celebrates the individuals, businesses, and organizations whose leadership, innovation, and service strengthen our region and help shape Erie's future.
- The Spirit of Erie: Tom Ridge, 43rd Governor of Pennsylvania, First U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security
- Catalytic Investment Award: Federal Resources and Erie County Community College
- Chamber Champion Award: Lisa Reinhart, Director of Business Development & Services, Erie Federal Credit Union
- Homecoming Boomerang of the Year Award: Erin Kerner, CEO, Eventio
- The Louis. J. Tullio Community Service Award: Jim Berlin, Founder & CEO, Logistics Plus, Inc.
- Young Erie Professional Award: Emily Wargo, Digital & IT Associate, Parker Lord
- Erie Maker of The Year: Folkland Foods
- ATHENA PowerLink Recognition: Dianna Noe' and Kayla Noonan (Noe' Noonan School of Cosmetology), Penny Bower-Schebal (Formality Bridal)
- Small Business Award: Lucky Bean Coffee/Millcreek Coffee and Lakeshore Towing Services, Inc.
Evening Highlights
- Pre-Reception: Open bar, hors d'oeuvres, and time to connect with fellow attendees.
- Awards Dinner: A seated dinner featuring award presentations and inspiring stories from Erie's leaders and changemakers.
- Post-Reception Celebration: Coffee, dessert, and additional networking with some of Erie's best and brightest.
Get Involved
Sponsorship opportunities and event registration become available each summer. Sponsors receive valuable visibility among Erie's business and community leaders while helping make this premier celebration possible.
Interested in sponsoring Spirit of Erie or learning more about Chamber events? Email [email protected].
JOIN US AT THE NEXT SPIRIT OF ERIE
The Spirit of Erie is open to Chamber members and non-members, with discounted registration available for members.
Interested in joining is for the Spirit of Erie in 2026? Use the button below to register today!
