Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Announces Award Winners To Be Recognized at Annual Chamber Banquet

Ruston, LA – The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce today announced the recipients of the three awards it bestows on local community members and businesses during its annual Chamber Awards Banquet. All honorees will be recognized during this year’s banquet, presented by Forth Insurance, on February 6, 2024, at the Ruston Civic Center.

“Local businesses are the backbone of our community, and we are thrilled to celebrate their achievements at this year’s Chamber Awards,” said Thomas Graham, Chairman of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber Board of Directors. “Congratulations to all the recipients and thank you for your hard work and dedication to making Ruston-Lincoln Parish a vibrant and prosperous place.”

Russell Woodard Sr. will be the recipient of the Chamber’s most prestigious recognition, the Robert E. Russ Award, which honors individuals for outstanding contributions to the Ruston-Lincoln business community or overall economic development of the area and is named for Ruston’s founder. As leader of the Woodard Law Firm since 1990 and Chairman of the Board of Louisiana National Bank since 1992, he has played a pivotal role in the success of Ruston and Lincoln Parish. His deep passion for service has directly contributed to making the area a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family.

Daniel Taylor will be named the 2024 Young Business Leader of the Year. Taylor currently serves as Chief Accounting Officer and Facilities Director of Argent Financial Group, where he has risen through the ranks over his more than 17-year career, beginning as a staff accountant. In addition to his position at Argent, Taylor is also Board Chairman of United Way of Northeast Louisiana, a business co-owner, active church leader, and a devoted family man.

Ruston Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau is the 2024 Business of the Year. The Ruston Lincoln CVB and their team have been selected as a result of their sustained efforts and dedication to transform our community into a vibrant destination. Which has generated substantial economic growth and effectively showcasing the assets of Lincoln Parish, yielding positive outcomes for both the business community and residents.

Several other awardees will be recognized for winning awards from the Chamber’s community partners. These organizations and their honorees will be announced in the coming days.  

“Ruston-Lincoln Parish is truly fortunate to have such a dynamic and dedicated business community. My sincere congratulations to all the 2024 award recipients – each one has earned this well-deserved recognition,” said Elizabeth Turnley, Interim President and CEO of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber. “We anticipate a truly special evening at our annual Chamber Banquet, celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of so many impactful leaders and businesses.”

To learn more about the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, visit rustonlincoln.org.