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October 1, 2019 By Robby Payne

Hardin County Chamber presents $20,000 gift to ECTC for University Center

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce announced Friday a donation of $20,000 to support the development of the University Center at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College.

“The University Center is a game changer for our community and aligns perfectly with the chamber’s work to maintain a prosperous business climate and promote future growth,” said Chamber Board of Directors chairman Brian Kerr, who presented the gift to ECTC leaders. “We believe the University Center’s positive impact on students, families and employers will be evident for generations to come.”

The investment advances ECTC’s efforts to bring multiple university partners to Elizabethtown while making higher education more accessible and affordable. University partners will offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees that lead to high-demand careers with local employers. 

“We’re proud to help expand the educational opportunities in our region and keep local talent local,” said Chamber President Brad Richardson. “It’s vital that we create new pathways for individuals who want to start careers in their hometowns as well as more established professionals who need access to degree programs that empower them to advance.”

ECTC President Dr. Juston Pate expressed the college’s appreciation for the chamber’s support. 

“The leadership and partnership of the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce is extremely valuable to the college,” Pate said. “We appreciate their investment in the University Center and a brighter future for our region.“

To support the University Center at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College, visit ECTCforBetterLives.com or contact the Central Kentucky Community Foundation.

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Filed Under: Chamber News, Community Notes

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Elizabethtown Office
111 West Dixie Avenue
Elizabethtown, Kentucky 42701

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Annual Awards Nomination Form

Annual Awards Nominations

Select an award category.

THE CHAMBER CHAMPION RONNIE J. PENCE AWARD

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the CHAMBER CHAMPION RONNIE J. PENCE AWARD at the 2025 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE CHAMBER CHAMPION RONNIE J. PENCE AWARD recognizes an individual who has committed an exemplary effort toward an initiative or initiatives important to the Chamber’s mission.

To nominate an individual, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this person is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is July 15, 2025

THE GOVERNMENT EXCELLENCE AWARD

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the GOVERNMENT EXCELLENCE AWARD at the 2025 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE GOVERNMENT EXCELLENCE AWARD recognizes any official (either elected or appointed) who has performed a particular service or overall effectiveness in office on behalf of the residents of Hardin County and has demonstrated commitment to supporting business. Other criteria:

  • Currently serving in any level of government (local, state, federal) or has been out of office no more than two years

To nominate an individual, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this business is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is July 15, 2025

THE HALL OF FAME AWARD

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the CHAMBER HALL OF FAME AWARD at the 2025 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE HALL OF FAME AWARD recognizes a local business or individual for long term contributions to the economy and community. To be considered, the nominee should have been operating in the Hardin County market for ten or more years.

To nominate an individual or organization, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this person is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is July 15, 2025

THE QUALITY OF PLACE AWARD

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the QUALITY OF PLACE AWARD at the 2025 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE QUALITY OF PLACE AWARD recognizes an individual, entity and/or organization that has made a positive difference in the lives of our citizens and works to make Hardin County a better place to live, work and visit.

Criteria:

  • Has made a significant economic, social or environmental impact on the community
  • Is a public use project, facility or initiative that impacts the community at large
  • Promotes, develops or creates business growth or tourism, recreational, cultural or community assets or amenities

To nominate for this award, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this entity is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is July 15, 2025

THE RALPH REESE FORT KNOX/COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the RALPH REESE FORT KNOX/COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD at the 2025 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE RALPH REESE FORT KNOX/COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD recognizes an individual or business who has committed an exemplary effort toward an initiative or initiatives important to the military and community partnership between Fort Knox and Hardin County. It is named in honor of World War II Veteran and Hardin County community leader and icon, Ralph Reese.

To nominate an individual or organization, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this nominee is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is July 15, 2025

THE RISING STAR AWARD

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the RISING STAR AWARD at the 2025 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE RISING STAR AWARD recognizes an up and coming business whose professional success is matched by its commitment to serving our community. This is for businesses in operation for two years or less.

Other criteria:

  • the business demonstrates excellence, creativity and initiative in their profession
  • the business provides value services by contributing time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community
  • the business must be a current member of the Hardin Co. Chamber of Commerce.

To nominate a business, individual or organization, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this business is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.Deadline for submitting a nomination is July 1 2025.

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the RISING STAR AWARD at the 2024 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE RISING STAR AWARD recognizes an up and coming business whose professional success is matched by its commitment to serving our community. This is for businesses in operation for two years or less.

Other criteria:

  • the business demonstrates excellence, creativity and initiative in their profession
  • the business provides value services by contributing time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community
  • the business must be a current member of the Hardin Co. Chamber of Commerce.

To nominate a business, individual or organization, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this business is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is July 15, 2025

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

A local professional under the age of 40 Demonstrates creativity, innovation, character, consistency and excellence in their field. Exemplifies outstanding professional growth and community engagement Makes significant contributions to the community through work and/or volunteer activities As current member of the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the RISING STAR AWARD at the 2025 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE RISING STAR AWARD recognizes an up and coming business whose professional success is matched by its commitment to serving our community. This is for businesses in operation for two years or less.

Other criteria:

  • the business demonstrates excellence, creativity and initiative in their profession
  • the business provides value services by contributing time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community
  • the business must be a current member of the Hardin Co. Chamber of Commerce.

To nominate a business, individual or organization, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this business is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is July 15, 2025

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