Tomorrow Night Is the Big Night for These Williston Community Leaders

The wait is almost over. Tomorrow night, September 18, the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the people and organizations making a difference across the community during the 2026 Stars of Williston Awards. The event will take place at The Grand Williston Hotel and Conference Center from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Seven awards will be presented, and this year’s nominees represent a wide variety of businesses, organizations, and community leaders.

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Distinguished Western Star Award

The Chamber’s highest honor goes to an individual in the Williston area who promotes Williston as a great place to live and work through ongoing personal and professional efforts. Recipients show a positive attitude toward the city while promoting its people and resources.

Nominees:
• Jeremy Ludlum, Williams County
• Kami Dornfeld, Sincere Smiles

Chamber Connector Award

This award recognizes an individual or organization that represents the values of networking and connecting Chamber members with the wider community. The recipient serves as an ambassador for the Chamber, participates in events and champions Chamber principles.

Nominees:
• RaeAnn Rathbun, Board of Realtors
• Megan Lis, Veridian North
• Chunky Delaney, Williston Area Chamber of Commerce

Williston Leadership Award

The Leadership Award honors an individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership, vision, and passion while making significant contributions to the growth and success of the community.

Nominees:
• Jessica Delvo, Veridian North
• Lindsey Harriman, Williams County
• Olive Motherhood

Generation Next Award

This award celebrates a rising or visionary leader with a strong commitment to the community, a willingness to grow and learn, and an innovative approach to business or community impact.

Nominees:
• Vanessa Alfaro, Elevated By Nessa
• Qamar Badwan, Fleur Cafe
• Laila Badwan, Don Pedro’s

Read More: What Does Williston Need Next? Locals Have Plenty of Ideas

Community Engagement Award

The Community Engagement Award recognizes an individual or group dedicated to community service and volunteerism, with a focus on uplifting others and improving the local quality of life.

Nominees:
• Aaron Barclay, Williston Moose Lodge
• Chris Walstad, CHI St. Alexius Health
• Shane Cymbaluk, UMV Fair

E. Ward Koeser Advocacy Award

This award honors an individual whose advocacy and community leadership reflect the legacy of E. Ward Koeser, particularly in regional development and support.

Nominees:
• Dr. Bernell Hirning, Williston State College
• Howard Klug, former Williston mayor

Champion of Agriculture Award

The Champion of Agriculture Award recognizes producers, leaders and innovators whose passion and work have made a lasting positive impact on the region’s agricultural traditions and economy.

Nominees:
• Kelly Leo
• Ethan Klundt, Horizon Resources
• ND Malting & Hops

Tomorrow night, these nominees will gather with members of the Williston community to celebrate the work happening across the area.

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Seven awards will be handed out, but the evening is also about recognizing everyone who was nominated and the contributions they make to Williston and the surrounding region. Congratulations to all the nominees, and thanks for making our region extra special!