Beaufort Chamber announces finalists for 2026 Civitas Awards; Winners announced on October 22 at Civitas Awards Reception
October 14, 2026
The Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced the finalists for its 2026 Civitas Awards, recognizing individuals, businesses and organizations whose leadership, innovation and service make a lasting impact on the region.
The awards honor achievements in small business, regional economic development, free enterprise, nonprofit service and community leadership. Winners will be announced at the 2026 Civitas Awards Reception, presented by Beaufort Memorial Hospital, on Thursday, Oct. 22, at 6 p.m. at Tabby Place at the Beaufort Inn, located at 913 Port Republic Street, Beaufort, SC 29902.
The Cornerstone Award for Small Business Excellence recognizes a small business that demonstrates entrepreneurial success, innovation and a positive contribution to the local economy. Finalists are Carolina Engineering Consultants, SK Signs, Designs & Marketing, and Stinger Home Management.
The Torchbearer Award for Regional Economic Impact honors businesses and organizations that help strengthen the regional economy through investment, job creation and other contributions to economic growth. Finalists are Coastal Community Foundation, J.H. Hiers Construction and the “Only from our Waters” Collaborative.
The Trailblazer Award for Free Enterprise Excellence recognizes entrepreneurial spirit, innovation and business achievement. Finalists are Freedman Arts District, MasterCorp and The Kitchen.
The Caretaker Award for Nonprofit Excellence celebrates nonprofit organizations that address community needs and improve quality of life through service and community engagement. Finalists are Beaufort Jasper Housing Trust, Good Neighbor Medical Clinic and Port Royal Sound Foundation.
The Pillar Award for Community Leadership recognizes individuals who demonstrate leadership and a commitment to strengthening the business community and improving the region. Finalists are Marilyn Harris of BCBCC Center for Culture & Commerce; Dr. Faith Polkey of Beaufort-Jasper-Hampton Comprehensive Health Services; and Barry Wilson of AlphaGraphics.
The Buzzworthy Award for Influential Leadership recognizes professionals who make a positive impact through leadership, professional achievement and community involvement. Finalists are Lisa Gallagher of Beaufort Academy, Zarah Goodyear of Kinghorn Insurance of Beaufort and Dr. Sherwood Miller of Miller Orthodontics.
The annual Civitas Awards celebrate the people and organizations helping shape the future of the Beaufort region through business excellence, community service and leadership.
Tickets for the Civitas Awards Reception on Oct. 22 can be purchased at https://business.beaufortchamber.org/events/details/civitas-awards-reception-10-22-2026-15037.
