Know Someone Who Makes Williston Better? They Could Be a Star!

Every community has those people who seem to be everywhere.

They're the ones volunteering at events, helping a neighbor, leading an organization, supporting local businesses, working to improve agriculture, or simply finding another way to make Williston a better place.

Now is the time to recognize them.

The Stars of Williston Annual Award Ceremony is coming up September 18 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Grand Williston Hotel & Conference Center, and the community still has time to submit nominations.

But don't wait too long. Nominations close August 30.

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There Are Plenty of Ways to Be a Star

The awards recognize people and organizations making a difference in Williston and throughout the Mon-Dak region.

• The Distinguished Western Star Award is the highest award presented by the Chamber. It recognizes an individual who has spent time promoting Williston as a great place to live and work through personal and professional efforts, while consistently supporting the city's people and resources.
• The Williston Leadership Award recognizes an individual or organization that has stepped into a leadership role and helped encourage the growth and development of others.
• The Generation Next Award shines a light on the future of Williston's business community. It's presented to a young professional between the ages of 21 and 35 who has demonstrated creativity, initiative, and excellence in their career and community.

Recognizing Those Who Give Back

• The Community Engagement Award celebrates outstanding volunteer service and positive influence throughout the year. The recipient represents the spirit of community engagement through involvement in Chamber and non-Chamber events, committees, and activities.
• The E. Ward Koeser Advocacy Award recognizes an individual or organization that has demonstrated leadership in government and policy at the local, state, or federal level while supporting the growth of the Williston business community.
• Agriculture also has an important place at the celebration. The Champion of Agriculture Award recognizes an individual or business making significant contributions to agriculture in the Mon-Dak region through stewardship, advocacy, technology, or new ideas and methods.
• Finally, the Chamber Connector Award recognizes someone who truly knows how to bring people together. This individual or organization serves as an ambassador for the Chamber and Williston, participates in Chamber events, and helps connect Chamber members with the community.

Read More: Williston Farm To Table Event Honors Local Farmers And Ranchers

How It Feels, And What It Means

I know firsthand the honor to be nominated, and the unexpected thrill to win the Distinguished Western Star Award.

Credit: Canva

Scott Haugen

I was extremely humbled to have been nominated alongside the very deserving Dr. Burnell Hirning, President of Williston State College, and Helen Askim, Williams County Administrator.

To simply be nominated is an honor. Having someone take the time to recognize your work and say, "This person deserves to be considered," means a great deal. To win is almost uncomprehensible.

It's something that stays with you. Not because of the award itself, but because you realize that people in your community noticed the work you were doing and believed it was worthy of recognition.

That is something you don't forget.

And that's why I believe these awards are so special. There are so many people in Williston who work behind the scenes, volunteer their time, support others, promote our community, and make a difference without ever expecting anything in return.

Sometimes, all it takes is someone else taking a moment to say, "We see what you're doing."

Maybe You Know This Year's Star

Think about the people you know around Williston.

Who has made a difference in your life? Who is always willing to lend a hand? Who has helped grow a business, supported agriculture, volunteered in the community, mentored others, or worked to make Williston a better place?

Maybe you know someone who deserves to be recognized.

If you do, take a few minutes and submit a nomination.

Nominations close August 30, so there isn't much time left. You can click here to nominate someone.

The Stars of Williston Annual Award Ceremony will be held September 18 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Grand Williston Hotel & Conference Center.

Tickets are also available for those who would like to attend the celebration.

Williston has many stars. Now it's your chance to help make sure one of them gets the recognition they deserve.