The Chamber of Commerce was proud to celebrate excellence, leadership, and community impact at our 2025 Member Awards Celebration, presented by Google.

Emerging Leader of the Year

The Emerging Leader of the Year Award recognizes a young professional who has given their time and talents to make Summerville and Dorchester County a better place through passion, teamwork, and innovative thinking. The 2025 recipient, Chris Makowski, has demonstrated exceptional leadership beyond his peers and made a meaningful impact early in his career.

Since joining the Town of Summerville, Chris has taken full ownership of his role as Public Information Officer, transforming how the Town communicates and engages with residents. Through initiatives such as podcasts, a monthly newsletter, council meeting debriefs, and the widely embraced Good Morning Summerville series, Chris has met the community where they are—ensuring transparency, accessibility, and connection. Known for his collaborative spirit, creativity, and integrity, Chris’s innovative storytelling and strategic use of technology have strengthened trust between residents and local government, making him a truly deserving Emerging Leader of the Year.

Volunteer of the Year

The Volunteer of the Year Award honors a Chamber member who has demonstrated exceptional service and a deep commitment to the betterment of Summerville and Dorchester County. The 2025 Volunteer of the Year is Patrick Savage.

Patrick exemplifies generosity, reliability, and service. As founder and principal of BuildWORKS Marketing, he has donated countless hours—and significant professional resources—through photography, marketing, and creative services that help tell the story of the Chamber and its members. His impact extends beyond the Chamber, as evidenced by his recognition as Volunteer of the Year by the Associated Builders and Contractors of the Carolinas. Known for always saying “my pleasure,” Patrick consistently steps in behind the scenes, mentors others, and shares his expertise through educational workshops, making him exceptionally deserving of this honor.

Trailblazer of the Year – Woman of Excellence

The Trailblazer of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding female leader who has shown courage, passion, and perseverance while blazing a path for others to follow. The 2025 Trailblazer – Woman of Excellence is Michelle McDonald.

As Deputy Director of Dorchester County Economic Development, Michelle plays a critical role in business recruitment, expansion, and workforce innovation. Her leadership has earned regional and statewide recognition, including the 2024 Women of Influence Award and the 2025 SC Certified Economic Developer credential. Among her many accomplishments, Michelle dramatically expanded funding for the Tri-County STEMersion Institute, enabling record participation and long-term value for industry and education partners. Her servant leadership, professional excellence, and deep community involvement make her a truly deserving Trailblazer of the Year.

Nonprofit of the Year

Sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners, the Nonprofit of the Year Award celebrates an extraordinary Chamber nonprofit whose dedication and philanthropic impact strengthen our community. The 2025 Nonprofit of the Year is the Dorchester District Two Educational Foundation.

As the nonprofit partner to Dorchester District Two, the Foundation serves as a vital bridge between schools, businesses, and the community—ensuring every dollar invested directly benefits students and educators. Through classroom grants, scholarships, staff incentives, and innovative school resources, the Foundation brings meaningful learning opportunities to life. Because all staff salaries are covered by the school district, funds raised go straight back into classrooms, maximizing transparency and impact. Its work strengthens schools, supports economic growth, and helps shape the future workforce of our region, making it a deserving recipient of this honor.

Small Business of the Year

Sponsored by TUPCO, Inc., the Small Business of the Year Award honors an exceptional business with 50 or fewer employees that exemplifies excellence, perseverance, and community commitment. The 2025 Small Business of the Year is Moody & O’Neal, CPAs LLC.

Founded in 2009, Moody & O’Neal has distinguished itself through a deliberate, people-first approach focused on relationships, expertise, and intentional growth. Rather than pursuing rapid expansion, the firm invests in top-tier local talent, smart technology, and clearly defined client service standards. Equally important is its commitment to the Summerville and Dorchester County communities through job creation, civic involvement, and volunteer leadership—making Moody & O’Neal a model of integrity and long-term success.

Large Business of the Year

The Large Business of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding business with more than 50 employees that sets the standard for excellence and community leadership. The 2025 Large Business of the Year is The Bank of South Carolina.

Serving the Lowcountry for nearly four decades, The Bank of South Carolina has remained steadfast in its commitment to being a true community bank—prioritizing relationships, local decision-making, and personal service. With six regional locations, the Bank’s impact extends beyond financial services through strong employee investment, nonprofit support, and civic engagement. Its people-first philosophy and enduring community presence make it a deserving recipient of this honor.

Berlin G. Myers Lifetime Achievement Award

Named in honor of former Summerville Mayor Berlin G. Myers, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a lifetime of leadership, service, and civic engagement. The 2025 recipient is Tony Pope.

This award honors individuals who have led major Chamber initiatives, served the business community, and demonstrated sustained leadership across civic and charitable organizations. Tony Pope’s lifetime of service and commitment to the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County area exemplifies the spirit and legacy of Mayor Myers and reflects the very best of community leadership.