03/01/2026
It was a very special evening Tuesday honoring local heroes with the hard-working folks at Greater Pensacola Chamber. We are a proud Chamber member.
Last night, the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce held its annual Pensacola Area Commitment to Excellence (PACE) Awards at the Pensacola Beach Hilton. Sue Straughn from WEAR-TV Channel 3 once again served as emcee.
We were privileged to honor the following individuals who have done so much for the Greater Pensacola community:
Emerging Leader: Bobby Potomski, Baptist Health Care
Advocate Leader: Alicia Tappan, Survivor Led Solutions
Business Leader: Rick Byars, Florida Power and Light
Community Leader: KC Gartman, Baptist Health Care
Professional Leader: Cyndi Warren, Warren Averett
Leader in Education: Dr. Martha Saunders, University of West Florida
Spirit of Pensacola: Lewis Bear III, Lewis Bear Company
Pioneer Award: Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons
āThe PACE Awards shine a well-deserved spotlight on the leaders whose vision and dedication continue to strengthen the Greater Pensacola region,ā stated Greater Pensacola Chamber Board Chair Ildi Hosman. āTheir commitment to innovation, business growth, and community impact reflects the momentum of our business community and the bright future ahead. This yearās slate of honorees is a testament to the purpose-driven work being done in our community.ā
The Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce would like to thank our 66th Annual PACE Award sponsors for their generous support.
Gold Sponsors: Florida Power & Light, CareerSource Escarosa, and the Pensacola News Journal
Award Sponsors: Ascension Sacred Heart, Baptist Health Care, Cox, Florida Blue, Frazier & Deeter, International Paper, Landrum HR, and the University of West Florida
VIP Reception Sponsor: Cat Country 98.7 / NewsRadio 92.3
Wine Sponsor: OneDigital
And a special thanks to Aaron Ball and Mediatech Direct for the amazing videos.
Congratulations to all the winners!