BEDFORD – The annual Chamber Dinner was a night to remember, celebrating excellence in our local business community. Coby Short treated attendees to an inspiring keynote address, whose engaging and motivational speech set the tone for a memorable evening.
Representative Chris May introduced keynote speaker Coby Short. “Coby and I started competing against each other over 40 years ago, whether in Little League or Elementary and Middle school sports. Not long after, we became teammates on All-Star teams and then into our High School career. His Dad, Mike, was often our coach; he and Coby’s mom, Jenny, are also here tonight. Coby and I are still teammates, teammates for life. As you know, in business and life, we have teammates and competitors who both make us better. Coby sets that bar; I have spent my whole life trying to measure up to this guy.”
Andrew J. “Coby” Short is a seasoned leader with a distinguished career spanning both the military and corporate sectors. With over two decades of service in the U.S. Army, he attained the rank of Colonel and held various leadership positions, including combat deployments and command of engineering battalions. His extensive military experience is complemented by advanced engineering, business, and strategic studies degrees. Short is Senior Director of Employee Engagement at Eli Lilly & Company, where he leverages his leadership skills to foster partnerships and enhance employee experience.
Coby’s presentation discussed the importance of service, partnerships, and teamwork. He illustrated these concepts by drawing on his experiences in the military and business. He also emphasized the significance of community involvement and collaboration and encouraged the audience to prioritize these values in their lives and work.
Service: “Service is more than just a duty – it is a commitment to putting others first and contributing to something greater than ourselves.”
Partnerships: “Partnerships revolve around being stronger together.” and “By mutual collaboration, you create a stronger and more resilient community.”
Teamwork: “Great Teams come from a consistent band of excellence driven by attitude, not performance.”
The event also honored exceptional achievements with prestigious awards, including the Small Business of the Year, Business Beautification Award, Community Service Award, and the Business Hall of Fame Award. Each accolade highlighted the dedication and impact of local businesses and individuals, showcasing their significant contributions to our community’s growth and vibrancy.
Victoria Dinges presented the award for Business Beautification to the Indiana Center for Recovery.
Kim Burgess of United Way, a Bedford Chamber of Commerce Board member, presented the Nonprofit of the Year award to the Lawrence County Museum.
The Small Business of the Year award was presented to Harvest Health and Rehab by Ashlynne Bender.
Shane Sizemore presented the Business Hall of Fame award to Hoosier Hills Credit Union.
Shawna Girgis, former mayor of Bedford, received the Community Service Award from Susan Gales of Bedford Federal Savings Bank, who praised Shawna as her mentor and close friend.
The Chamber Dinner concluded on a high note, celebrating the remarkable achievements of local businesses and community leaders. The evening was a testament to the dedication and spirit of those who contribute to the vibrancy of our community. With a compelling keynote address by Coby Short and the heartfelt presentation of awards, the event honored outstanding individuals and reinforced the strong sense of unity and support within our area. As the night ended, attendees left inspired and motivated, looking forward to our local community’s continued growth and success.
