The Glenwood Springs Chamber Gala was a night to remember, celebrating local heroes and visionaries who have shaped the community.

Among the distinguished honorees was Colorado Mountain College President Carrie Besnette Hauser, named Citizen of the Year for her decade-long commitment to enhancing the region’s prosperity and educational landscape.

“This award means shared success from a lot of people,” Hauser said. “No person does this by themselves and I have an incredible team in Colorado Mountain College and we’ve been working really hard for over a decade to enrich the lives of people, not just in Glenwood Springs, but all over the central Rocky Mountain region.”

Under Hauser’s leadership, notable projects have become a reality, such as the Morgridge Commons, a conference center funded by the Morgridge Family Foundation and operated by CMC.

Hauser’s foresight also led to a groundbreaking solar array and battery storage complex on the CMC campus in partnership with Holy Cross Energy. This initiative has not only reduced the college’s carbon footprint but also supported the local economy by enabling Glenwood Springs High School students to earn college credits through expanded concurrent enrollment programs.

“The world is changing and the college needs to adapt to make sure that we’re delivering trained individuals for the economies that have evolved since the college started 60 years ago,” Hauser said. Her efforts to provide affordable housing for CMC students and faculty in Glenwood Springs further exemplify her commitment to the community’s well-being.

The gala also recognized other individuals who have made significant contributions to the community. Lindsay Gould received the ATHENA award for her professional excellence, community service and efforts to assist women in achieving leadership skills.

“It’s so humbling to me and I’m so grateful,” Gould said. “I do what I do because that’s my purpose and I love helping children. To have people that I admire and respect honor me in this way is so amazing.”

Kirstie Ennis was honored with the ATHENA Young Professional award for her inspirational journey and contributions to veterans and amputees through The Kirstie Ennis Foundation.

Ennis’ extraordinary path commenced with her choice to enlist in the United States Marine Corps at the young age of 17, ascending to the rank of sergeant. 

Her journey took a shift during her second deployment in Afghanistan when she was involved in a helicopter crash, leading to her medically retiring due to significant injuries. Her experiences inspired the creation of The Kirstie Ennis Foundation, which hosts recreational clinics aimed at offering therapeutic experiences for amputees, veterans and individuals dealing with adversities.

“I’ve been very fortunate to have received awards internationally,” Ennis said, highlighting the special significance of being recognized by her community.

The Bluebird Café, under Justin Bishop’s ownership, was celebrated as the New Business of the Year for its inclusive events and support for various community programs.

“I purchased the Bluebird Café back in 2022 because I saw it as a platform to pretty much get out in the community and help out,” Bishop said. “To be standing here and to be able to receive this award, it means a lot and means that the Bluebird is going in the right direction.”

Alpine Bank was named Business of the Year, marking its 50th anniversary with significant charitable contributions and community engagement efforts.

The evening also acknowledged the Kiwanis Club, Mountain Family Health Centers, Royal Mini Storage, and Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park for their milestones, along with Becky Ciani, who received the Ambassador of the Year award.