2026 CRANBROOK CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
Recognizing those who make Cranbrook a better place.

Honouring Community Excellence: Cranbrook Citizen of the Year

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY

The Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce is proud to spearhead one of our community’s most prestigious honours—The Citizen of the Year Award. First established in 1973, this longstanding tradition celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to make Cranbrook a better place for all.

The award will be presented during the opening of the Business Excellence Awards on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at the Key City Theatre—our community’s premier celebration of business and non-profit leadership, impact, and innovation.

This distinguished award celebrates those who go above and beyond in demonstrating civic pride and have a positive impact on the social, cultural, or environmental well-being of Cranbrook.

We are coming together to recognize those who don’t seek the spotlight but truly deserve it. Who inspires you? Who makes a difference every day? Help us celebrate the individuals who are making Cranbrook a stronger, more vibrant community.

Nominations are NOW OPEN!

PAST RECIPIENTS

2026 NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN

CRITERIA OVERVIEW

View the list of past recipients , as those who have previously recognized will not be eligible for 2026.

The following criteria outline the qualities and achievements considered in the selection process. Nominees are evaluated based on their level of involvement, the significance and sustainability of their contributions, and the extent to which their efforts inspire others and foster a stronger, more connected Cranbrook.

An ideal nominee would demonstrate that their service to Cranbrook has had significant positive impact. Some of these ways may include:

  • supporting vulnerable populations
  • improving local services
  • fostering cultural inclusion
  • volunteering selflessly
  • contributing to their cause for years

Nominees are evaluated on several key qualities including community impact, volunteerism & service, leadership, integrity & character, dedication & commitment, inclusivity & collaboration, innovation or initiative, and positive influence.

While nominees are not required to meet every key quality, more detailed submissions will carry greater weight.

LIST OF FULL CRITERIA

Adjudication

The 2026 Citizen of the Year will be selected by an adjudication panel, selected by the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce. See last year’s panel below.

Presentation

The award will be presented during the opening of the Business Excellence Awards on October 24, 2026, at the Key City Theatre.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION

Nominators are asked to advance the name of the nominee along with supporting documents outlining the range of community contribution, years of active involvement, and positions held within organizations or groups that benefit Cranbrook.

A minimum of 3 letters of support are required to accompany the nomination.

DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS: Friday, August 14 at noon.

2026 NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN

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Eligibility

The nominee must be an individual. The nominee must not be a past recipient, nor an elected representative or member of the judiciary who still holds office. Self-nominations are not eligible.

Nomination criteria

While nominees are not required to meet every key quality, more detailed submissions will carry greater weight.
The impact of their contributions on Cranbrook is considered, particularly how their efforts have created lasting, positive change. Please describe the nominee’s involvement in local projects, charities, or initiatives.
The scope of any volunteer service is assessed by considering the time, effort, and consistency they devote across different sectors—such as youth, seniors, sports, and the arts. Please list any organizations that received volunteer efforts from the nominee.
The nominee has demonstrated the ability to step into leadership roles, taking initiative and responsibility. Nominees do not need to be volunteers to demonstrate leadership. Please describe the nominee’s ability to lead, act as a role model in Cranbrook, inspire others through actions, and take initiative in solving problems.
Leading by example and earning the trust and respect of others through honesty, accountability, and fairness demonstrates the moral foundation of a nominee’s actions. Please describe the nominee’s consistent ethical behaviour even in challenging situations.
The consistent involvement over time, whether volunteer or professional, reflects a long-term commitment to helping others. Please describe the nominee’s length of consistent service (number of years of continuous contribution), consistency of effort, dependability, and depth of involvement.
Does the nominee have the ability to bring people together, value diverse perspectives, and to ensure that everyone feels valued and heard? Please elaborate on how well the nominee works with diverse groups, encourages participation, and works cooperatively to strengthen Cranbrook.
Does the Nominee show problem-solving skills and resourcefulness in response to community challenges? Please describe how/when the nominee introduced new ideas or approaches to improve Cranbrook.
Overall fit for the award is judged based on their demonstration of selflessness, positivity, and a sincere drive to make Cranbrook a better place. Please describe the nominee’s impact through their attitude as well as spirit of encouragement and respect.

Letters of support

Please submit a minimum of 3 letters of support.
Max. file size: 3 MB.
Max. file size: 3 MB.
Max. file size: 3 MB.
Max. file size: 3 MB.

Nominator

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PAST RECIPIENTS

2025 Citizen of the Year – Robert “Bob” Whetham

photo - Gretchen Whetham accepts from Chamber Executive Director Stacey Brensrud

An Adjudication Panel of Diverse Community Leaders

The Chamber assembled a 2025 adjudication panel to review the nominations and award scores based on a matrix. An in-depth judging session took place. We received five sets of score sheets that were filled out independently and confidentially.
 
Special thanks to (left to right):
 
Loree Duczek, 2003 Citizen of the Year
Sandy Zeznik, 2022 Citizen of the Year
Al Davis, 2004 Citizen of the Year (along with his wife, Dorial)
Chancellor Litke, Past President JCI, 2024 Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Cranbrook Chamber Business Excellence Awards
Viveka Johnson, Superintendent School District 5
 
Big thanks to this group of community leaders for their valuable time and thoughtful insight.