In her introduction of the Citizen of the Year Thursday evening, Chamber Executive Kristi Perry quoted Billy Graham….The greatest legacy one can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one’s life, but rather a legacy of character and faith. She cited those have received the honor in the past and shared that honor with their parents….like Melinda Huisinga and Mary Elgar. She went on to announce that Matt Schimmelpfennig was selected as the 2020 is the Citizen of the Year! His parents JD and Kathy were honored in 2013.
A lifelong Mt. Pleasant resident, Schimmelpfennig was recognized as someone that gives of himself unselfishly for the betterment of Mount Pleasant. His work ethic and his outstanding relationship with his customers was noted as well his efforts to help organizations such as Midwest Old Threshers, the Mount Pleasant Athletic Boosters, and the Chamber of Commerce. Schimmelpfennig is described as a humble person and one that serves as a role model to others in the community, balancing his business and community life but always putting his kids and family first. Schimmelpfennig was pleased to accept the same award that his parents J.D. and Kathy Schimmelpfennig received in 2013.
Matt Donnolly from Mt. Pleasant Chiropractic received the Volunteer of the Year and Som Sylavong from US Bank received the Ambassador of the Year. A special Humanitarian Award was presented to the Henry County Public Health Department staff for their tireless efforts during the Covid crisis.
2020 President Chad Sloat from the Walmart Distribution Center and the 2021 President Jennifer Moutrie from Moutrie Trucking assisted in presenting the awards.