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The Monticello–Drew County Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, in the Green Room at the Gibson Center on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Monticello.
The evening recognized local businesses, organizations, and individuals whose leadership and service continue to strengthen the Monticello and Drew County community.
Non-Profit of the Year was awarded to Hope Place, which has served the community since opening in 2009. In 2025 alone, Hope Place assisted 93 clients through nearly 800 visits. Originally founded as a pregnancy counseling center, the organization has expanded its mission to support women and families facing unplanned pregnancies through education, parenting classes, material assistance, and a unique food pantry focused on teaching families how to prepare affordable meals. Hope Place also offers childbirth and breastfeeding classes, parenting education, and connections to adoption services, while continuing to serve as a vital support system for mothers and families throughout Drew County.
The Large Business of the Year award went to Walmart, which has served Monticello for more than four decades. The local store employs approximately 265 associates and is recognized for both its long-term workforce— including several employees with more than 30 years of service—and its significant community contributions. The Monticello location consistently earns district and regional recognition and donates tens of thousands of dollars annually to dozens of local organizations and initiatives.
Small Business of the Year honors were presented to Pomeroy’s Hometown ACE, owned by Michael and Stacy Pomeroy. Since opening in August 2020, the Pomeroys have remained hands-on, operating the store seven days a week while actively supporting community causes. Their commitment extends beyond business ownership, with involvement in local boards, nonprofit organizations, and civic efforts, reinforcing the store’s reputation as “the helpful place” in Monticello.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Hazelene McCray, a Drew County Extension Agent in Family and Consumer Sciences with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. With more than 16 years of service, McCray has dedicated her career to educating Arkansans on nutrition, health, and family well-being. Her extensive involvement in professional committees, community organizations, churches, and service initiatives has left a lasting impact across Drew County and the state.
Drew County Woman of the Year was awarded to Halley Ryburn-Powell, recognized for her leadership, civic engagement, and commitment to returning home to invest in her community. Ryburn-Powell’s service includes leadership roles in charitable organizations, statewide professional associations, and local events, as well as support for education and youth programs. Her work reflects a balance of professional achievement and deep community involvement that continues a strong family legacy of service.
The Drew County Man of the Year Award was presented to Allan Nichols, CEO of Mainline Health Systems. Under Nichols’ leadership since 2008, Mainline has grown from four locations to 27 clinics serving 10 counties and more than 31,000 patients annually. His commitment to accessible, compassionate healthcare has helped establish Mainline as a statewide and national model for rural health, while ensuring no patient is turned away due to inability to pay.
The annual banquet highlighted the dedication, leadership, and service that continue to shape Monticello and Drew County, celebrating those who invest their time and talents into strengthening the community.
