Signature Event Presented by Infinite Erie Set for September 24
The Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership is proud to announce the 2025 Spirit of Erie honorees. This new annual signature event, presented by Infinite Erie, celebrates the individuals and organizations driving Erie’s economic progress and community impact.
Spirit of Erie replaces two popular Chamber events: Erie Homecoming and the Celebration of Excellence. This newly imagined event unites their energy and purpose into one inspiring evening of connection, recognition, and community pride.
The 2025 event will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, from 5:15 to 9:15 p.m. at the Bayfront Convention Center. The evening includes a pre-reception, seated dinner program, and post-reception celebration.
“We created Spirit of Erie because the remarkable work happening in this city deserves more than just a press release or a handshake,” said Brandon Mendoza, President & CEO of the Erie Regional Chamber. “It deserves a room full of supporters, a round of applause, and a night that feels like a win for everyone in it.”
This year’s honorees include business leaders, civic champions, and emerging professionals whose work reflects the spirit of innovation, resilience, and collaboration that defines Erie:
- Spirit of Erie Award: Tim NeCastro
- Catalytic Investment Award: Swing Project Erie, LLC.
- Drew Whiting and Chase Rogan
- Chamber Champion Award: Dr. Chris Clark
- Erie Maker of the Year: Charlie Rutkowski
- Homecoming Boomerang of the Year: Benton Bainbridge
- Small Business of the Year: Blind Tiger, Rebecca A. Styn, Ph.D.
- Louis J. Tullio Community Service Award: Jennie Hagerty and Dr. Rhonda Matthews
- Young Erie Professional of the Year: Mike Williams
- ATHENA PowerLink Recognition:
- Emily Ernes, Glass Growers Gallery
- Christina Vogel, Donatos Pizza, Erie
- Dena Rupp, Purrista Cat Café
“This isn’t your typical dinner event. Spirit of Erie is a chance to recognize real people doing real work to move this city forward,” Mendoza added. “It’s also a chance to get in the room with the people behind Erie’s momentum. If you care about where we’re headed, you’ll want to be part of this.”
Tickets are now on sale. Pricing is $100 for Chamber members and $130 for non-members. Table reservations and sponsorship opportunities are also available. To learn more, visit https://eriepa.com/Spirit_of_Erie or email communications@eriepa.com.
The Erie Regional Chamber thanks presenting sponsor Infinite Erie and all early supporters of this year’s event.
