The Community Champion Award recognizes a living individual who demonstrates an outstanding commitment to serving and strengthening Montgomery County. This honor celebrates those who consistently show up for others, using their time, talents, and leadership to create a meaningful and lasting impact within our community.
Community Champions are individuals who lead by example. They may be found in roles such as educators, healthcare professionals, first responders, nonprofit leaders, business professionals, or dedicated volunteers—often working behind the scenes without recognition. What sets them apart is their integrity, generosity, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of those around them. Whether through professional work, volunteerism, or everyday acts of service, their contributions help move our community forward.
This recognition is designed to highlight individuals whose efforts may otherwise go unnoticed but are deeply felt across Montgomery County. Their influence can be seen in stronger organizations, more connected neighborhoods, and a higher quality of life for those they serve.
Nominations are reviewed by a selection committee, with nominations carrying for the current calendar year. Nominees must be living individuals, and previous recipients are not eligible for repeat recognition. Self-nominations are not accepted.
Please join us in congratulating Emily Priddy, our next Montgomery County Chamber Community Champion! Emily continues to show what it means to lead through service. Year after year, she has given her time, energy, and talents to volunteer efforts that strengthen our community, all while creating meaningful opportunities for students to develop their skills in creative and hands-on ways.
Her impact can be seen across Montgomery County, from helping improve student art shows and galleries at the Montgomery Museum of Art & History, to supporting students from Christiansburg Middle and High School as they decorate downtown storefronts for the winter holidays. She has been a steady advocate for initiatives that keep the next generation involved, visible, and connected to the community around them. Through her work with Downtown Christiansburg Inc., Emily has gone from volunteer to board member, helping the organization move forward during some of its most challenging years. Her efforts have supported stronger promotion, deeper community engagement, and multiple years of successful GiveLocalNRV campaigns. Congratulations, Emily, and thank you for championing Montgomery County!
Past Recipients
