Member Awards
The 2023 Leadership Awards were presented at the Annual Membership Meeting held on December 6, 2023 at Holiday Inn Resort SPI.
Directors' Award
Stefani Harrison - Sisters Interiors
received the 2023 Director's Award. In the Summer of 1986, sisters Ann Hunsaker and Linda Golden began their adventure by opening “Sisters”. Ann’s daughter, Stefani, now represents the next generation in this family of entrepreneurs. Stefani is the epitome of a successful business woman by carrying on the family tradition with her unsurpassed industry knowledge, high level of service to her clients and her commitment to staff. She recently expanded the business to include Sisters Interiors Concierge Services.
Sisters has been an active member of the South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce for over 30 years and is a sponsor of the Ladies Kingfish Tournament and Annual Gala as well as participating in the Member Showcase.
Ambassadors' Award
Wendy Knight - Sea Turtle, Inc.
This year’s Ambassador’s Award recipient served as the Treasurer of the Chamber Board of Directors in 2022-2023, chaired the Government Affairs Committee and is a huge advocate for the Chamber.
Community Partner Award
Holiday Inn Resort SPI
earned the Community Partner Award for being a huge advocate for South Padre Island and the Chamber. Throughout the past 18 months, this business has demonstrated unwavering support for the Chamber. They exemplified this dedication by accommodating a last-minute early morning meeting, generously hosting the event. Their commitment extended further as they not only provided the venue but also graciously arranged breakfast for more than 200 attendees. If that wasn’t enough, last January the Chamber held a Quarterly Public Affairs luncheon and it was bad, really bad weather. The speaker was flying in from Dallas and his return flight was not only delayed, it was cancelled, FOR TWO DAYS!! Of course he had only brought his briefcase thinking he would be returning that same afternoon. Not only did this business extend their hospitality by providing accommodation for two nights, they also generously provided meals. However, a challenge arose when the individual had no appropriate clothing for the harsh weather conditions—freezing cold and raining. In a remarkable display of compassion, Rene Valdez went the extra mile by bringing out his own coat from the office for him. This act exemplifies true community partnership.
Kukui Award
Lisa Smith
was presented the 2023 Kukui Award. Lisa has only been a member of the Chamber since last December, but wow has she had a positive impact. She is a great advocate for the Chamber and an asset to our community. She attends Chamber functions and is active on the Islanders Committee. There is no question she is a light in our community. As busy as she is, she will always take the time to help someone in need and do it with a beautiful smile.
Outstanding New Business Member Award
SPI Wine Bar
earned the honor of the 2023 Outstanding New Business Member Award. Our Chamber believes it is important to recognize new members who fully utilize the benefits of their Chamber membership and who are committed to creating a strong and positive community presence.
Yolanda and Zack Feldstein are 2 hard-working entrepreneurs, who are also strong supporters of the Chamber. These two business owners are proof hard work, dedication and community involvement can together make a strong impact on a community. They have partnered with other businesses to bring together a fun, welcoming, and exciting new venue on the Island that has become popular with residents and visitors.
2022 - 2023 Committee Chairs
Cristin Howard - Island Ambassadors
Wendy Knight - Government Affairs
