Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce Honors Outstanding Achievements at 2024 Awards Night

Hutchinson, Kansas - March 21, 2024 - The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the distinguished recipients of the 2024 Awards Night, recognizing exemplary individuals and businesses for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the community. 

Ambassadors of the Year - Marva Terrell, Staffing Specialist/Heartland Credit Union and Rachelle Fideldy, Business Developer and Outside Sales Rep/Express Employment Professionals: In recognition of their exceptional dedication, passion, and commitment to the Chamber and the members served. Their enthusiasm and tireless efforts have made a significant impact on building a strong and vibrant business community in Hutchinson and Reno County. Marva and Rachelle spent considerable time attending events, ribbon cuttings, ground breakings, as well as helping with set up and clean up at many events. The Chamber is very fortunate to have the two ladies serve as Ambassadors and we appreciate their unwavering commitment.

Rising Star – Dave Sotelo, Strategic Growth Director/City of Hutchinson: In recognition of his remarkable talent, drive, and potential, Dave leads many equity and inclusion efforts for the City and advises other community organizations on equity strategies. David spreads encouragement wherever he goes, making everyone feel valued and connected. Dave has been instrumental in helping launch partnerships with the City such as the Minority Business Mixer events to engage new populations in entrepreneurial growth. 

Veteran-Owned/Supporting Business - Keller Williams Hometown Partners-Blick Homes, Dianne Blick owner: In acknowledgment of her exemplary service to the community and steadfast support of veterans, Dianne Blick of Keller Williams Hometown Partners-Blick Homes has been recognized as a Veteran- Owned/Supporting Business. Her commitment to excellence and dedication to serving both clients and the community exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. 

Minority/Women-Owned Business - Board & Brush owned by Sara Nowlan: Celebrating diversity, empowerment, and entrepreneurship, Sara’s passion, creativity, and leadership serve as a shining example of the positive impact of women-owned businesses on our local economy and community. Sara donates to many organizations in the community but is especially proud to have partnered with other local businesses to raise over $20,000 following the wildfires in Reno County.

Legacy Award (Business) - Conklin Automotive Group: Conklin Automotive Group is a 4 th generation family-owned company that originally began as Stuart Conklin Buick in 1941 founded by Stuart Conklin Sr. Not only did Conklin grow locally, but they expanded to other communities in the state including Newton and Salina and have more than 280 employees in the state-wide organization. They have continued to reinvest and renovate their current locations with a priority of serving their customers. The Conklin family also have a long history of giving back to the community and you can see that Stuart Conklin Sr instilled that principle of giving back to the community through the many Conklin family members who have continued that supportive legacy. 

Legacy Award (Individual) – The Late Harland Priddle: Harland was a true servant leader, born in Haven, Kansas. After graduating from Kansas State University, he went into the US Air Force and spent 22 years before retiring as a colonel in July 1974. During his illustrious career he served as the Deputy Commander of the White House Communications Agency for President Nixon in 1970-74. After retirement he returned to Kansas where he served in many capacities including at the Kansas State Fair, Hutchinson National Bank, and even served as the Chair of the Chamber’s Tourism Committee. In 1982 he was tapped to be the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture under Governor Carlin and in 1986 was the Lt. Governor candidate with Jack Brier. In 1987 he was selected by Governor Mike Hayden as the first Kansas Secretary of Commerce. After his service to Kansas, he went on to do many things but most impactful was serving as the President of the Haven Chamber of Commerce in 2003 and Executive Vice President in 2002-2009. His hometown named Priddle Industrial Drive for his impact as he continued to dedicate his work to the development of the K96 Corridor Development Association. He made a tremendous difference on the economic development of Kansas and an impact on us through his servant leadership.

Small Business of the Year - The Rock Group, owned by Shane Iwashige: has been named Small Business of the Year. His dedication to customer satisfaction, business integrity, and community involvement exemplifies the spirit of small business excellence. Shane began his company in 2013 when he helped two friends purchase rental properties, remodel them, and then lease and serve as the property manager. Shane could be described as a Serial Entrepreneur – He has started, ran, and sold (a couple) small small successful businesses including: Rock Rentals, Rock Refresh, Rock Renovation, Landscapes, and Skyland Industrial (a compact construction Equipment sales and rental business). To add to that, Shane also maintains his real estate license. Shane donates to various benefit auctions, serves on several committees and is passionate about developing the adaptive leadership capacity of our community as a speaker, teacher, and coach. The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce extends heartfelt congratulations to all the award winners for their outstanding achievements and profound impact on our community.

Pictured (Left to Right): 

Marcy Kauffman, Vice President of Membership

Marva Terrell Ambassador of the Year

Dave Sotelo – Rising Star

Rachelle Fideldy – Ambassador of the Year

Dianne Blick – Keller Williams Hometown Partners-Blick Homes, Veteran-Owned/Supporting Business

Sarah Nowlan – Board & Brush, Minority/Women-Owned Business

Sam Conklin, Conklin Automotive Group – Legacy Award

Shane Iwashige, The Rock Group- Small Business of the Year

Valorie Dick (Harland Priddle’s daughter, Legacy Award – Individual)

Debra Teufel, President/CEO