ESVA Chamber honors local businesses and citizens at Annual Awards Dinner

Pictured clockwise from the top left: Tammy Holloway with outgoing ESVA Chamber Chairwoman Jennifer Annis; Nancy Perry, Chris Guvenator, Patty Brogan, Susan Hurst accepting on behalf of Mark Crockett, Ace Seybolt. 

The Eastern Shore of Virginia Chamber of Commerce recognized several community leaders, businesses, and organizations during its annual awards program, honoring contributions to economic development, volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and civic service across Accomack and Northampton counties.

The Chamber’s Chairman’s Award was presented to Ace Seybolt, a longtime businessman and real estate professional. Outgoing Chairwoman Jennifer Annis cited his years of service on the Board of Directors, including his tenure as Chairman, and his efforts to strengthen partnerships between the Chamber and the Eastern Shore of Virginia Tourism Commission. Seybolt was also recognized for supporting workforce development, economic recovery initiatives, the Eastern Shore Public Library, Eastern Shore Community College, and the Accomack County Economic Development Authority.

The Distinguished Service Award was awarded to Andy Mason, a longtime realtor and community leader. Annis highlighted Mason’s leadership within the local real estate industry, including his service as president of the Eastern Shore Association of Realtors and his graduation from the Virginia Realtors Leadership Academy. Mason was also recognized for his support of numerous community organizations and for serving as a Platinum Chamber Champion for three consecutive years.

Captain Mark Crockett, owner of the Tangier-Onancock Ferry and Cruises, received the Small Business Person of the Year Award. Annis noted the ferry service’s role in connecting Tangier Island residents with the mainland while supporting tourism and local businesses. Crockett was also recognized for continuing to operate the business while battling cancer in recent years. The award was accepted on his behalf due to a recent health setback.

The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award was presented to A.J. Jones. In remarks submitted by nominator Bill LaCato, Jones was praised for quickly becoming a prominent figure in the local business community through his diverse services, strong work ethic, and growing reputation among businesses across the Shore. Jones was unable to attend, and the award was accepted on his behalf.

Eastern Shore Habitat for Humanity was named Nonprofit of the Year. The organization was recognized for its community impact and successful fundraising efforts, including the 2026 “Freezin’ for a Reason” campaign, which raised approximately $112,000. Presenters praised the leadership of staff and volunteers and the organization’s role in building homes, community connections, and hope.

Nancy Perry received the Volunteer of the Year Award for her extensive work with Cape Charles Main Street. Tammy Holloway, who nominated Perry, noted her dedication of dozens of volunteer hours each month, her leadership in organizing events, and her efforts to establish procedures and resources that will benefit future volunteers.

The Chamber’s highest individual honor, Citizen of the Year, was awarded to Tammy Holloway. Holloway was recognized for her leadership and service throughout the Eastern Shore community, including her work on the Cape Charles Town Council, the Eastern Shore of Virginia Tourism Commission, and Cape Charles Main Street. ESVA Chamber Executive Director Robert Sabbatini cited her long-standing commitment to community development, tourism promotion, local business support, and civic engagement.

The awards ceremony concluded with a raffle for a David Turner sculpture, donated in support of the Chamber, which was won by John T. Williams.