The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce (BVCC) invites members, local business leaders, community partners and the public to attend its 48th Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony on Thursday, November 19, 2026, at Pleasant Valley Country Club, 95 Armsby Road, Sutton. This highly anticipated event, presented by UniBank, will celebrate the accomplishments, leadership, and community contributions that continue to strengthen the Blackstone Valley.
Registration and the breakfast buffet at 7:15AM, followed by an engaging program at 8:00AM, and will conclude approximately at 9:45AM.
This year’s Keynote Speaker is Josh Kraft, host and founder of MassForward, a new multiplatform civic media initiative designed to spotlight the people, ideas, and organizations shaping the future of Massachusetts. A longtime civic leader and non-profit executive, Kraft has dedicated his career to community development, youth programs, re-entry initiatives, and strengthening neighborhood across the Commonwealth.
Kraft previously served as president of the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation and spent 30 years with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston. Drawing on his extensive experience in civic engagement philanthropy, and community leadership, Kraft will bring a valuable perspective on the people and partnerships that help communities thrive.
“Our annual meeting is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the people and businesses who contribute so much to our region. Their leadership, commitment, and investment in our communities are essential to the continued vitality of the Blackstone Valley.” said BVCC President & CEO, Jeannie Hebert.
The Awards Breakfast remains a signature celebration of business excellence and community leadership in the Blackstone Valley. This year’s distinguished honorees include:
Award Winners – 2026
- Economic Development Award: Keith Havalotti, Co-Owner, Blackstone Creamery
- Community Catalyst Award: Chris Whitten, Premeer Real Estate
- Entrepreneurial Spirit Awards: Briana Azier, Bri’s Sweet Treats & Chris Mahoney-Pick, Stay Awhile Coffee
- Environmental Stewardship Awards: Nick Socrat, Douglas Orchard & Farm, LLC & Betsey Brewer, EARTH, Ltd.
- Gerry Gaudette Extra Mile Award: Denise Brookhouse, Koopman Lumber
- Non-Profit Impact Awards: Mark Mandeville, Blackstone Valley Music and Performing Arts Collaborative
- Non-Profit Impact Awards: Heather Elster, Whitin Community Center
- Volunteer of the Year Award: Kham Inthirath, CEO, AI Advisor Guy
In addition to special recognition awards, the BVCC will also honor 15 businesses celebrating milestone anniversaries, ranging from 5 to 200 years in business, a true testament to the strength and longevity of entrepreneurship in the Valley.
Members can register for, $70, Non-Members may register for $80, and a table of 8 is $500. To register, please visit www.blackstonevalley.org/events or scan the QR code on the event flyer. Please RSVP by November 13, 2026 to secure your seat for this highly anticipated event! For more information, please contact Kristen Kearnan at (508) 234‑9090 x100 or email kkearnan@blackstonevalley.org.