GAMBIER — More than 500 people rose from their seats when the former United Way of Knox County executive director Kelly Brenneman accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award at its annual dinner Friday night.

The chamber’s highest award is given to someone who contributes significantly to the Knox County community and makes a difference in people’s lives. 

Growing up on a Gambier farm in the early 1970s, Brenneman was living the “typical life.” 

She played high school volleyball, etched in quality memories with friends – some she’s still close to 45 years later. 

“We always appreciated what we had,” Brenneman said. 

‘I absolutely love my life’

In her time volunteering, Brenneman helped raise money for the annual Food For the Hungry drive, providing food, utility and rental assistance for county residents. 

Before taking the role of United Way of Knox County’s executive director in 2015, she was the agency’s resource development director. 

She was responsible for executing the annual campaign, coordinating community events and establishing United Way’s new Women’s Leadership Council. 

Before landing at United Way of Knox County, Brenneman was the executive director of the American Red Cross. 

After spending several decades giving back to the community that raised her, Brenneman said she’s been asked if she misses work post-retirement. 

“I really don’t,” Brenneman said jokingly. “I absolutely love my life.

“I love having the flexibility to just do whatever I want to do.

“I could not have done what I did in my career without all of you.”

Other chamber awards

The chamber conducted its premiere event at Kenyon College’s Lowry Center. In addition to the Lifetime Achievement Award, the chamber recognized others who made significant contributions to the community in 2024:

Environmental Sustainability Award: OSU Ext. Office/Farmers Market

Heart Award: Village of Fredericktown 

Quality of Life: Experience of Mount Vernon

Volunteer of the Year: Marcy Rinehart

Investor in the Future: OhioMeansJob Knox County (Opportunity Knox)

Women in Business Leadership: Sandy Coffing

Leadership Knox Alumni: Sam Filkins

Entrepreneur Spirit: The Shoppe on Main

Small Business of the Year: Happy Bean Coffee Shop

Large Business of the Year: Mortellaro McDonalds

In accepting their awards, recipients acknowledged their staff members, co-workers, and mentors, underscoring the team effort that’s involved with community contributions.