Baldwin EMC was named Business of the Year at the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner. Accepting are, from left, Brian Seals, Donna Givens, Karen Moore and Joe Penn. (Photo credit to Tina Covington)

Donna Givens was named Woman of the Year at the Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce annual banquet. (Baldwin EMC photo)

Baldwin EMC was named “Business of the Year” at the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce annual banquet held Jan. 29 in Bay Minette, Al., and two of the cooperative’s employees were also honored at chamber events during the month of January.

North Baldwin Chamber Executive Director Ashley Jones said Baldwin EMC was chosen based on its strong leadership, a demonstrated commitment to its members, and a commitment to the community. “This business has a presence at nearly every event that does or can make a difference in our local community. They are a part of the strong foundation that makes our community great! This organization is a stable, future-minded company that knows that without the growth of the community, there is no growth in the company,” Jones said when presenting the award.

Donna Givens, a 41-year employee of Baldwin EMC, was named 2015 Woman of the Year by the Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce at their annual banquet held Jan. 22 in Robertsdale, Al. Givens, senior governmental and community affairs administrator for Baldwin EMC, has volunteered her time on numerous boards such as the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance, which she currently chairs; Coastal Alabama Partnership; Habitat for Humanity, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, among others.

Baldwin County Commissioner Tucker Dorsey, who presented the award to Givens, said “She’s having a tangible impact and a tangible effect on our bright future that we have in Baldwin County.”

Also honored at the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce banquet was Baldwin EMC’s Manager of Engineering Brian Seals, outgoing chairperson for the chamber. Seals has been employed at Baldwin EMC since 1996 and has served on the chamber board for three years. He will continue to serve as an ex-officio member of the board.