The Traer Chamber of Commerce 2025 Outstanding Service Award recipient, Sandy Wilson, second from left, pictured with Chamber board members on Thursday, Nov. 6, in Traer. From left, April Johnson (Chamber secretary), Wilson, Madison Snider (Chamber president), Kelly Jantzen (Chamber treasurer), and Tommy Jantzen (Chamber vice president). PHOTO COURTESY OF MADISON SNIDER

TRAER – The Traer Chamber of Commerce held its annual dinner and meeting on Thursday, Nov. 6, during which President Madison Snider presented the 2025 Outstanding Service Award to Sandy Wilson. Wilson, vice president of Sunrise Hill Care & Rehab Center Board, has served as a member of the Chamber for many years and also previously served on the board of Traer Golf and Country Club. She also previously owned Whispering Pines Gift & Décor which was located on Traer’s Second Street and worked at First Community Bank/National Bank of Waterloo. The Telegraph is printing (below) Snider’s full speech introducing Wilson as this year’s Outstanding Service Award recipient.

C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S, Sandy!

Traer Chamber’s 2025 Outstanding Service Award recipient introduction by Madison Snider

It’s a true pleasure to stand before you tonight as we recognize someone whose dedication, compassion, and energy have made a remarkable difference in our community. The outstanding service award is given to an individual whose selfless commitment and tireless efforts exemplify the very best of what it means to serve – and this year’s recipient, Sandy Wilson, fits this title perfectly.

Sandy has been a cornerstone of our chamber for years. Whether it’s being a previous business owner, organizing events, lending a helping hand, or inspiring others to get involved, Sandy approaches everything she does with passion. Her ability to bring people together – to turn an idea into a shared effort and a vision into reality – has left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.

Those who know Sandy will tell you that she never seeks recognition or praise. She gives because it’s who she is – someone who truly cares about others and believes in the power of community. From coordinating our annual girls night out event, our annual holiday happenings event, and decorating the park gazebo and winding stairs to making sure every detail of an event runs smoothly, Sandy leads by example, reminding us all that service is not just about what we do, but about how we do it – with kindness, generosity, and grace.

Tonight, as we present the outstanding service award to Sandy Wilson, we celebrate not only her countless contributions, but also the warmth, dedication, and spirit she brings to everything she’s involved in.

Sandy, thank you for all that you do – for your time, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to making a difference. You are an inspiration to us all, and this recognition is so very well deserved.