Honouring Community Excellence: Cranbrook Citizen of the Year
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.
2026 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Julie Rose
Julie Rose’s compassion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Cranbrook have made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless community members.
At the heart of the Cranbrook Food Bank, which connects more than 2,700 people with food, Julie works tirelessly toward a hunger-free community. Her people-centred approach ensures those experiencing food insecurity are treated with dignity, kindness, and respect. She collaborates with community agencies, supports vulnerable and unhoused residents, and champions innovative initiatives such as the Day Pay Program, which provides meaningful work and same-day compensation.
Julie’s impact extends well beyond food distribution. She supports volunteers, mentors nursing students from College of the Rockies, advocates for funding, and brings community partners together to strengthen local food systems. Her leadership is described as caring, energetic, knowledgeable, and grounded in empathy and compassion.
Always looking for ways to improve, Julie seeks new funding, develops programming, and listens directly to the people she serves. Her ability to bring people together and turn ideas into meaningful action exemplifies community leadership.
Julie Rose’s generosity, integrity, and dedication make her a deserving nominee for Citizen of the Year.
Kathleen Simon
Kathleen “Kathy” Simon’s decades of volunteerism, leadership, and community service reflect a remarkable commitment to making Cranbrook a welcoming and vibrant place to live.
For more than 20 years, Kathleen has helped young people build confidence and communication skills through Toastmasters and the Sweetheart Youth Ambassadors Speechcraft program. Her service also extends to the Air Cadets, Girl Guides and Trefoil Guild, Cranbrook Community Theatre, Cranbrook Public Library, and Cranbrook Health Care Auxiliary.
At the Health Care Auxiliary Thrift Store, Kathleen takes on significant leadership responsibilities, supporting volunteers and helping manage day-to-day operations. Her creativity has inspired new initiatives, including youth volunteer opportunities, volunteer recognition, and promotions designed with local families in mind.
Known for her dependability, positive attitude, and ability to make everyone feel valued, Kathleen leads by example. Whether mentoring a young speaker, welcoming theatre patrons, supporting fellow volunteers, or lending her skills to a community organization, she approaches every role with enthusiasm and kindness.
Kathleen believes everyone has a role to play in building a great community—and her many years of dedicated service demonstrate just how powerful that belief can be.
Adjudication
The 2026 Citizen of the Year was selected by an independent adjudication panel, selected by the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber is committed to procuring a diverse adjudication panel that mirrors a broad representation of the community. This year, the Chamber welcomed community leaders and mentors from education, business, non-profit sector and beyond.
Presentation
The award will be presented during the opening of the Business Excellence Awards on October 24, 2026, at the Key City Theatre.
Presentation
The award will be presented during the opening of the Business Excellence Awards on October 24, 2026, at the Key City Theatre.
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.
NOMINATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED
Nominators were 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 were required to accompany the nomination.
DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS was Friday, August 14 at noon.
2025 Citizen of the Year – Robert “Bob” Whetham
An Adjudication Panel of Diverse Community Leaders
