The Claremore Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual State of the Chamber awards luncheon at the Dr. Carolyn Taylor Center, Rogers State University, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026.

This event introduces newly appointed board members, recognizes community partners, and highlights some of the best in business from around Claremore.

Jason Jones of Hillcrest Hospital assumed the role of board chair with the passing of the gavel. Jones has served on the board of directors for a number of years, maintaining community growth as a guiding principle.

“I am eager to strengthen the Chamber's role as a hub of innovation and collaboration,” Jones said, “where members can freely exchange ideas, resources, and expertise.”

The Chamber recognized Ambassador of the Year, Chris Phillips of Oklahoma Natural Gas; Educator of the Year, Dr. Mark Rasor of Rogers State University; and Entrepreneur of the Year, Megen Rhine of Megen Rhine Consulting. The Non-Profit of the Year honor was awarded to GRAND Mental Health. Froman Propane was recognized as the 2025 Small Business of the Year, and Large Business of the Year is Spectrum Paint.

Additionally, the Chamber paid tribute to Lou Flanagan with a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring her dedicated services to the community.

“This award recognizes a lifetime spent serving with grace, humility, and unwavering love for Claremore,” said Chamber President and CEO, Ashley May. “Today, we honor her legacy and say ‘thank you’ for a life that made our community stronger, kinder, and better.” The Chamber presented a plaque to her daughter and son-in-law, Tiffany, and Matt Fitzsimmons. The Chamber and attendees made a monetary donation to the Claremore Museum of History in her memory.

With a 40-plus event published program of work, it’s evident that The Claremore Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to its member businesses and the local community.

“The Chamber is a resource for businesses, an advocate for economic growth, and a strong community partner,” said Jones. “I’m truly excited to lead in this capacity for the coming year.”

The 2026 Claremore Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors includes: Matt Ballard, office of the District Attorney for Rogers, Mayes, and Craig counties, Pastor Rick Burke, Cedar Point Church, Josh Cantwell, GRAND Mental Health, Jeremy Craft, Baker Hughes, Sara Edwards, Northeast Tech, Grant Gingerich, Grand Gingerich State Farm, Steven Helt, Helt Heat & Air, Christine Kihega, Pixley Lumber Co., Meggie Froman-Knight, Claremore Economic Development, Nick Marks, RCB Bank, Bobbie McNair, Claremore Children’s Center, Brian O’Dell, Blue Arc Metal Specialties, Dr. Don Raleigh, Rogers State University, Thad Reimer, BancFirst, Gentry Stafford, Spectrum Paint, Kim Stauffer, AXH, Brian Treat, Chick-fil-A, and Madi York, Rogers State University President’s Leadership Class.

About Claremore Area Chamber of Commerce: For more than 86 years, the Claremore Area Chamber of Commerce has served as the voice of business for our members. Our mission is to advance economic, industrial, professional, cultural, and civic, welfare; and enhance the quality of life for Claremore and Rogers County. We are community partners and advocates for business. For more information on the Claremore Area Chamber of Commerce, visit claremore.org or connect on Facebook@ClaremoreAreaChamber