2025 Chamber Banquet Celebrates Positivity, Collaboration, and Community Growth
The annual banquet was a celebration of McPherson’s spirit of positivity, collaboration, and community growth. Guests were encouraged to reflect on what they value about McPherson and to share ideas on how the Chamber can best support local businesses and organizations. The Chamber honored the dedication of board members, staff, and ambassadors, recognized sponsors whose investments strengthen programs and opportunities, and celebrated award recipients including President’s Award honoree Tim Maier, Emerging Leader honoree Lindsay Helms, and business award winners The McPherson Public Library (Community Builder Award), Bluestem PACE (Entrepreneur Business Award), and Pizza Ranch (Horizon Business Award). These recognitions highlighted the people and organizations that make McPherson shine.
The Chamber also highlighted the three pillars that guide its mission—Community Impact and Engagement, Meaningful Connections, and Business Development. Programs such as Leadership McPherson and the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge continue to cultivate leaders, inspire civic engagement, and spark innovation. With over 500 Leadership McPherson alumni and impactful youth initiatives, the Chamber’s influence is evident across generations. Gap financing programs, in partnership with Network Kansas, were celebrated for their powerful role in supporting job creation and business sustainability, with 78 loans totaling over $3 million approved since 2011. Ribbon cuttings, scholarships, educational programs, forums, and collaborations with local and state partners further demonstrated the Chamber’s role as a connector and catalyst for growth.
Looking ahead, members were invited to share ideas for future priorities, including stronger school-to-career pathways, expanded educational opportunities, new networking events, and downtown beautification. Exciting initiatives such as a community bike share program were introduced, designed to promote healthy lifestyles, increase foot traffic for local businesses, and strengthen community connections. With visionary leadership and member input, the Chamber remains committed to creating opportunities, fostering innovation, and building a vibrant future for McPherson.
President’s Award Honoree- Tim Maier
Tim Maier was selected by the past presidents of the McPherson Chamber for his valuable contribution and long-term impact of the McPherson business community.
Tim’s legacy in McPherson is defined by both his transformative work and his profound leadership. He modernized the city’s water and electric systems, safeguarded infrastructure, and shaped regional policy, leaving lasting benefits for public health, economic growth, and community resilience. Beyond these achievements, Tim’s welcoming personality and genuine care for people fostered a culture of respect, mentorship, and family within the utility. He connected with individuals personally, encouraged their growth, and instilled confidence, shaping stronger professionals and leaders. His impact endures not only in the systems he built but in the people and community he uplifted. Thank you and Congratulations Tim!
Emerging Leader Award -Lindsay Helms
The Emerging Leader Award honors rising business and community leaders whose success is matched by service, creativity, and impact. The 2025 recipient, Lindsay Helms, exemplifies these qualities through her role at the McPherson Public Library and her leadership as a Chamber Ambassador, United Way Board Member, and All Schools Day Chairperson. Known as a lifelong learner and natural connector, Lindsay brings unmatched energy, enthusiasm, and kindness to every project, inspiring others and strengthening community bonds. As 2024 honoree Kena Dacus shared, Lindsay’s wide-open heart, boundless creativity, and uplifting spirit make McPherson brighter, kinder, and a whole lot more fun. Congratulations, Lindsay!
As we continue planning for the coming year, we want to know what matters most to you.
• Which Chamber resource or service is the most valuable to your business or organization?
• What opportunities or services would you like to see the Chamber prioritize or provide?
See pictures from the 2025 Chamber Annual Banquet and Awards here.