Cedar City Celebrates Community Excellence at 76th Annual 'Best of Cedar City' Awards Gala

Cedar City came together in style on March 5th as the Cedar City Chamber of Commerce hosted its 76th annual "Best of Cedar City" awards gala at Southern Utah University's Sharwan Smith Student Center. Hundreds of community members filled the ballroom to celebrate the people and organizations that make Iron County an exceptional place to call home.

 

"Last night we had the honor of celebrating the Best of Cedar City, recognizing the outstanding people and organizations who help make our community such an incredible place to live and work," shared Tessa Douglas, president and CEO of the Cedar City Chamber of Commerce.

 

The evening showcased 16 award categories, with BZI serving as the primary event sponsor and Utah Shakespeare Festival's Executive Director Michael Bahr as master of ceremonies. Each winner was honored with video tributes highlighting their community impact.

 

Among the notable honorees, Desiree Anderson received the Ambassador Spirit award for her dedication to the Alzheimer's Association's Walk to End Alzheimer's. Young Citizen of the Year went to Lizzie Huff, who has spent years collecting colorful socks for children at Primary Children's Hospital.

 

Local business excellence was celebrated across multiple categories. Bunnisa's Thai Cuisine earned Restaurant of the Year honors, while Dallas Smith Media took home the Innovative Business of the Year award. The Pub Spirits + Craft Kitchen was recognized for outstanding customer service and hospitality.

 

Southern Utah University was named Employer of the Year, with President Mindy Benson accepting the award. Southwest Technical College received Business of the Year recognition, demonstrating the community's strong educational foundation.

 

The evening's highest honors—Man and Woman of the Year—went to Jon Oglesby, executive director of the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games, and Maria Twichell, executive director of Visit Cedar City-Brian Head Tourism Bureau. Linda L. Wilson received the Legacy Lifetime Achievement award for decades of civic service.

 

"Congratulations to all of this year's honorees, and thank you for the positive impact you make in Cedar City and Iron County every day," Douglas added.

 

The Chamber has begun sharing celebration videos on social media, extending the recognition beyond the evening's festivities.