The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Annual Awards, which honor individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the Oxford, Lafayette County, and University of Mississippi community.
Each year since 1972, the Chamber has recognized a Citizen of the Year, shining light on outstanding individuals whose service, leadership, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the community.
In addition to the community’s highest honor, Citizen of the Year, the Chamber will recognize excellence across several award categories, including:
- Large Business of the Year
- Small Business of the Year
- Oxford-Lafayette Business Icon Award
- Outstanding Service Award
All honorees will be recognized at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting Luncheon on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at the Inn at Ole Miss.
To submit a nomination for Citizen of the Year, the following materials are required:
- Completed nomination form
- Typewritten biography
- Three letters of support
Nominees will be evaluated based on:
- Positive contributions to the Oxford/Lafayette/University community
- Service above and beyond professional or civic expectations
- Demonstrated leadership and role modeling in volunteerism
All nominations will be reviewed confidentially by the Chamber Awards Committee, and recipients will not be announced prior to the Annual Meeting Luncheon.
General Eligibility Guidelines
When submitting nominations for any Chamber award, please consider:
- Demonstrated community involvement and charitable contributions
- Support of Chamber initiatives and community development efforts
- Active membership in the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce
Nominations may be submitted by Chamber members or as self-nominations. Nominees and nominators must be Chamber members in good standing. Businesses must operate within or actively serve the Oxford-Lafayette County area. Separate forms are required for each award category.
Award-Specific Criteria
Large Business of the Year
Recognizes businesses with more than 50 employees that demonstrate excellence in leadership, innovation, growth, customer service, and employee commitment. Businesses must be established for at least three years and may not be owned by elected officials or candidates for office.
Small Business of the Year
Honors privately owned, for-profit businesses with fewer than 50 employees that demonstrate strong growth, sound business practices, and leadership within the community.
Oxford-Lafayette Business Icon Award
Celebrates a business or professional with decades of positive impact in the local business community. Nominees should demonstrate long-term success, strong reputation, and sustained growth. Recent retirees (within two years) or posthumous recognitions (within two years) are eligible.
Outstanding Service Award
Recognizes an individual or business that has demonstrated exceptional community pride, volunteerism, and engagement in Chamber activities within the past year.
Submission Information
To nominate a worthy individual or business, go to https://forms.gle/41rdKWNf7vHXHDpD6
Please submit all nominations to the Oxford Lafayette Chamber office no later than close of business on Friday, May 8, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
About the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce
The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization dedicated to strengthening the local economy and enhancing quality of life. With more than 800 members, the Chamber supports business growth through networking, advocacy, leadership programs, marketing opportunities, and community initiatives.
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