Boulder Chamber Announces Finalists for 2025 Celebration of Leadership Awards 

Kicking-off the celebration of its 120th anniversary, the Boulder Chamber is proud to announce the finalists for its 2025 Celebration of Leadership Awards, honoring individuals who have achieved extraordinary success in business and made positive contributions to the community.    

Boulder's robust, innovation-driven economy didn't develop by chance. Exceptional business and community leaders from diverse industries, nonprofits, and public institutions shaped it. To honor their achievements and inspire us to pursue our vision for Boulder’s economic vitality, the Boulder Chamber hosts this premier tribute to those who embody the spirit of Boulder's business community. 

The Boulder Chamber invites business leaders and the broader community to the Celebration of Leadership Gala on April 16 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Boulder Theater. The event will feature an Art Deco theme, adding a touch of 1920s glamour to honor the Boulder Chamber’s 120th anniversary. Guests are encouraged to dress accordingly.  

For four decades, the Celebration of Leadership has recognized those driving innovation, economic growth, and social impact in Boulder. With the goal of sharing even broader insight into the wealth of business talent and outstanding companies, the 2025 Celebration of Leadership will feature top nominees in most categories, with the final award winners being revealed live on stage.  

The 2025 Finalists Are: 

Virginia Patterson Business Leader of the Year Award 

• Josh Silberstein, Social Venture Partners 
• Rick George, University of Colorado Athletics 
• Joe Steiskal, Limelight Boulder 

Innovative Business of the Year Award 

• BioMed Realty 
• Longpath Technologies 
• Enveda 

Rising Star Award 

• Kriste Peoples, Women's Wilderness 
• Sristy Agrawal, Mesa Quantum 
• Mackenzie Sehlke, Boulder County Farmers Market 

Entrepreneur of the Year Award 

• Colonel Lee Rosen, Think Orbital Inc. 
• Kendra Prospero, Turning the Corner 
• Kelvin Melgar, Hopelands Coffee LLC 

 Impact Award 

• Rob Anderson, BVSD 
• Roots Music Project
• Kari Palazzari, Groundworks Art Lab
• Lime 

As a special tribute to his legacy of business success and community contributions, Stephen Tebo of Tebo Properties will be receiving the Franny Reich Lifetime Achievement Award.  

Raised in Hill City, Kansas, Stephen started shining shoes at eight. His love for coins led him to open a shop in college, funding his math and computer science degrees. After graduating in 1968, he moved to Boulder and opened Tebo Coin in addition to Tebo Store Fixtures, becoming Colorado's top display case distributor by 1972. His businesses grew, leading him to develop Tebo Square. Renting out spaces, he was able to cover his mortgage from the rent, which sparked his passion for real estate. Today, he owns over 275 properties, focusing on historic preservation, supporting local businesses, and shaping Boulder's commercial scene. 

“It’s the chance to recognize legendary business leaders, like Stephen Tebo, and the newer editions to our economic ecosystem who will carry on Boulder’s tradition of business excellence, innovation and community spirit,” said Boulder Chamber President and CEO John Tayer. “It’s an honor for the Boulder Chamber to share in the celebration of these leaders with our own 120-year anniversary as the Boulder Region’s flagship business support, advocacy and economic development organization.”  

The Celebration of Leadership Gala is presented by FNBO. Tickets and table sponsorship opportunities are available at registration.