Community Leadership Awards Banquet Winners Announced
The Waynesville-St. Robert Chamber’s Annual Community Leadership Awards Banquet was held Friday, February 20, 2026, at The ARK Community & Sports Center. This event is held to commemorate the hard work and dedication to the community exhibited by our area leaders, non-profit organizations and civic groups, as well as announces the Citizen of the Year. The Chamber had 155 in attendance and the event was sponsored by Security Bank of Pulaski County with dinner provided by Vidies Catering.
This year we had 2 amazing nominees for Citizen of the Year: Laura Schoephorster, nominated by American Family Insurance Stafford Agency and Jax Welborn nominated by Mayor Sean Wilson. The Waynesville-St. Robert Chamber of Commerce 2025 Citizen of the Year is Laura Schoephorster for her volunteer impact in the community. Laura was unable to attend. Laura’s daughter, Tyler Brock was presented two resolutions on Laura’s behalf: State Representative Bill Hardwick was in attendance and presented a resolution on behalf of the Missouri House. Senator Justin Brown was not able to attend, but he sent his remarks and a resolution on behalf of the Missouri Senate. COL Alexander Lovasz, MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood Deputy Commanding Officer, James Breckinridge, Mayor of St. Robert, and Sean Wilson, Mayor of Waynesville, were also present to present their remarks.
The 2025 Charitable Business of the Year, Route 66 Taco and Wing Company, nominated by Mayor James Breckinridge, were recognized for having made significant charitable contributions to the community.
Route 66 Taco and Wing Company owners, John Randles and Steven Leonard lead by example. Their giving spirit is evident in the many ways they support local causes, families and community events. They donate food weekly to the Good Samaritan Women’s Shelter, provide free catering for the St. Robert Police Department Holiday Party, and donate gift cards and event space to small businesses, civic groups and nonprofit organizations. Their most notable act of service is their role as sole primary sponsor and food provider for “Salute to the Season” holiday block leave event.
The 2025 Community Non-Profit of the Year was awarded to outstanding organizations, Association of the United States Army – Mid Missouri Chapter (AUSA) and Pulaski County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD).
AUSA has spent nearly seven decades strengthening the bond between Soldiers, families and the community. AUSA is guided by their mission to support Soldiers, their families, Army civilians, and to honor those who have served, this all-volunteer organization continues to make a remarkable impact. From honoring over 1,070 Vietnam-era veterans, hosting Family Night Out with the USO and Culver’s, organizing Women Veterans Coffee and Donuts gatherings, the chapter brings people together through fellowship and service.
Pulaski County COAD embodies the spirit of unity, service, and resilience. Since the devastating 2013 flood, COAD has become the heartbeat of coordinated recovery in Pulaski County and ensures that help arrives quickly. Through its partnerships with SEMA, FEMA, the Salvation Army, Missouri Disaster Relief, and local governments, COAD provides physical aid, emotional support, and renewed hope.
The Chamber also presented the 2025 Educator of the Year to Jared Sabatasso who was nominated by Luge Hardman. Jared is the Waynesville School District’s Head Band Director. He has been an educator for 22 years and through his leadership our bands have grown in number, expanded programs and musical opportunities for our students. Jared is known for his exceptional leadership, dedication and the impact he has on his students. His students were in attendance and played during the social and dinner.
At any Chamber function you’re sure to see the bright blue jackets worn by the members of the Chamber’s Ambassador Club. They are the Chamber’s army of volunteers, and it is a special privilege to honor them for their dedicated service. The Chamber recognizes the Ambassador of the Year for 2025, Jason Jorgensen-Horn. The Ambassador of the Year is determined by attendance at Chamber functions throughout the year. Jason earned 111 points and attended 81 out of 97 events.
The Waynesville-St. Robert Chamber of Commerce is proud to celebrate these remarkable individuals who exemplify dedication, leadership, and service in our community.