by Olean Area Chamber of Commerce
OLEAN — Recipients of the L.O.U.I.E. Enterprising Business, and Presidential Awards for 2024 were announced Friday by the Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce.
One individual and two businesses will receive the highest recognition bestowed by the GOACC and be honored at our 118th Annual Dinner on Nov. 7.
James M. Stitt, CEO of Cutco Corporation, is receiving 2024’s L.O.U.I.E. (“Love of Olean, United In Enterprise”) Award.
The award is given to an individual who exemplifies the enterprising spirit of commercial growth and admiration for the greater Olean community, qualities which were embodied by the namesake of this award, Louis Marra.
Stitt is well-respected in his leadership of one of the area’s largest employers – Cutco Corporation. He is held in high esteem for his broad spectrum of community involvement, embodying the “people first” values Cutco set a precedent for.
Last year’s recipient was former Olean City School District Superintendent Colleen Taggerty, who is now serving as interim superintendent of the Wellsville School district.
Hedley Brook Agency, Inc. is this year’s recipient of the Enterprising Business Award, presented to a business that exemplifies the unique “hometown” charm of the greater Olean area in manners of administration, customer service, or display of inventory.
Total Senior Care was last year’s recipient of the Enterprising Business Award.
The recipient of this year’s Presidential Award is the Tri-County Arts Council. This award is bestowed upon an iconic or institutional business/individual, located in the greater Olean area, who has become an integral part of the fabric of this community.
The Tri-County Arts Council celebrates both art and culture that has been created right within our own community. They are committed to filling the community with diverse, creative, and vibrant art and culture.
Last year’s recipient of the Presidential Award was David J. Koebelin.
“The Greater Olean Area is incredibly fortunate to have a such strong pool of individuals and organizations for our Board and Committee to consider for these awards each year,” said Adam Jester, interim executive director of the Chamber.
“This year’s honorees truly exemplify what it means to champion the economic vitality and overall well-being of our community, and we’re excited to honor them at the Annual Dinner,” Jester said. Chamber Members and their employees can purchase tickets to the Annual Dinner by visiting shop.oleanny.com. Find tickets for purchase under the “Event Tickets” tab. Seats are limited! Please RSVP by Oct. 30 to events@oleanny.com.
