Maryland Capital Enterprises, Inc. (MCE) announces that in partnership with esteemed local businessman Mr. Palmer Gillis, we have hosted the twelfth annual MCE Palmer Gillis Entrepreneur of the Year Award ceremony. The event took place on November 2, 2023, at Salisbury University in the Assembly Hall of the Patricia R. Guerrieri Academic Commons building. The ceremony recognized the exceptional achievements of local entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the economy and community of the Eastern Shore.
This year, the Entrepreneur of the Year Award, sponsored by Salisbury Wicomico Economic Development, was awarded to an outstanding leader in the health sector, Nicole Odom-Hardnett, Ph.D. As the founder and CEO of Focus Point Behavioral Health located in Princess Anne, Maryland, Dr. Odom-Hardnett has exemplified the spirit of community service and dedication that this award embodies. Focus Point Behavioral Health has been instrumental in providing comprehensive behavioral health services to a diverse range of populations. Their commitment to offering intensive outpatient substance abuse treatment, various outpatient services, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), Psychiatric Rehabilitation Programs (PRP) for both adults and adolescents, Mental Health Therapy, Supportive Employment Services, and DUI/DWI education programs have made a substantial impact on community wellness.
We were also pleased to honor Chelsea Lahey, Owner of Galaxy Gymnastics in Salisbury, MD, with the Innovator Award, sponsored by Unique Styles Custom Home Builders. Her entrepreneurial spirit and innovation within the field of gymnastics instruction have raised the bar for athletic and personal development in our area.
The Workforce Development Award, sponsored by Worcester County Tourism & Economic Development, was awarded to a true leader in the vocational community, David Tawes, owner and president of Absolute Plumbing, Heating and Cooling in Fruitland, Maryland. Mr. Tawes' dedication to workforce excellence and his commitment to providing top-notch services have set a stellar example of leadership and community development.
Through these awards, Maryland Capital Enterprises, Inc. continues its mission to support and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives on the Eastern Shore. Our partnership with Mr. Palmer Gillis underscores the shared belief in the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives and communities.
Congratulations to Dr. Odom-Hardnett, Chelsea Lahey, and David Tawes, along with all the nominees who reflect the ingenuity and dedication of our local business community. Your achievements are not merely a measure of personal success but serve as inspirations for current and future generations of entrepreneurs.
For more details about our free services and workshops, and future events, please reach out to Dory Hayman at dhayman@marylandcapital.org, or visit our website www.marylandcapital.org.
