Beacon Awards

SAVE THE DATE: The Beacon Awards will be held on thursday, june 4 from 5pm - 7pm at the chincoteague center. more details to follow.

2026 Beacon Awards Nominations are Now being accepted - Deadline April 1, 2026

Annual Achievement Awards

Leonard 'Buddy' Burton Outstanding Business Person

John White Shields Outstanding Citizen

Educator of the Year

Best Initiative

Emerging Business

Sponsorship Opportunities

We invite you to showcase your business while supporting this special evening. Beacon Award sponsorships provide valuable visibility and demonstrate your commitment to celebrating excellence in our community. All sponsorship levels include recognition in upcoming promotions and at the ceremony.

SPONSORSHIP LEVELS 

☐ $100 – Legacy Tribute Sponsor
Honors a previous award recipient, celebrating their lasting impact on our community through a tribute made in their memory or honor. Previous recipients are listed on each nomination ballot.

 ☐ $150 – Beacon Table Sponsor

Includes the option to reserve a table for your guests.
Would you like to reserve the table with seating for 8? ☐ Yes ☐ No

 ☐ $250 – Nominee Spotlight Sponsor

Sponsors the table where award nominees are seated, recognizing their outstanding contributions.

 ☐ $500 – Hospitality Sponsor

Supports the evening reception and hospitality for the event.

Download Beacon Award Sponsorship Form - Deadline May 1

The Chincoteague Chamber Of Commerce Proudly Honors The 2025 Leonard “Buddy” Burton Outstanding Business Persons

The 2025 Leonard "Buddy" Burton Outstanding Business Persons Award was presented to Rosie and Dylan Mööt and Kate and Nate Mööt of Pico Taqueria. Launching their journey in 2015 from the confines of a food truck, they have successfully turned a passion project into a thriving brick and mortar culinary experience, thanks to their relentless dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep love for their craft. The Mööts are shining examples of outstanding business leadership who understand that success is built not just on great food, but on the strength of the team behind it. Known for their artisanal menu and warm, welcoming service, they have created a food experience that goes far beyond the plate. Every interaction is marked by genuine hospitality, attention to detail, and a desire to exceed expectations. They consistently give back to the community through their annual give back day, donating proceeds to a local non-profit, as well as provide gift cards for raffles and community fundraisers and offer complimentary meals to travel writers and journalists to help spotlight their community.

The Chincoteague Chamber Of Commerce Proudly Honors The 2025 John White Shields Outstanding Citizen

The 2025 John White Shields Outstanding Citizen Award was presented to Donna Leonard for her lifelong dedication to the Chincoteague community. A native of the island, Donna has spent decades preserving its heritage while supporting its thoughtful growth. From being a teenage tour guide, to running her family business and leading key projects like the Downtown Revitalization, Brianna Kindness Park, and Island Dog Park, she has combined creativity, compassion, and persistence to shape the fabric of the town. Her leadership extends to serving on numerous boards and committees, including the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce, Easter Decoy & Art Festival, and Town Parks and Recreation Committee. She also helped preserve the former elementary school property, now home to the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance, pickleball courts, and more. A true ambassador for Chincoteague, Donna continues to inspire future generations through her leadership and love for the island.

The Chincoteague Chamber Of Commerce Proudly Honors The 2025 Emerging Business

Cowboy Cruise Company was awarded the Emerging Business Award for its unique and impactful contributions to tourism and community. Founded by Hunter and Rebekah Leonard, the company offers guided boat tours through local marshes, featuring rare views of wild Chincoteague ponies and hands-on aquaculture experiences like clam and salt oyster harvesting. With a strong focus on education, conservation, and local heritage, the company uses specially designed boats to connect guests with nature and the island’s traditions. Beyond tourism, the Leonards actively support the community, donating cruises and assisting local organizations, making Cowboy Cruise Company a standout new business.

The Chincoteague Chamber Of Commerce Proudly Honors The 2025 Best Initiative

Village Neighbors of Chincoteague Island was awarded the Best Initiative Award for its outstanding work supporting Chincoteague Island residents aged 60 and over. This volunteer-led nonprofit helps seniors live independently by providing assistance with transportation, technology, and daily tasks, matching seniors with the perfect volunteer based on their skills and interests. Since launching in response to a 2021 community survey, the program has completed over 1,300 service requests for more than 70 members, achieving a 99% completion rate. By addressing the unique needs of the island’s aging population and fostering strong community connections, Village Neighbors has become a vital and compassionate resource.

The Chincoteague Chamber Of Commerce Proudly Honors The 2025 Educator of the Year

Cathy Jo Mason was honored as Educator of the Year for her 33 years of dedicated service at Chincoteague Elementary School. Beginning as a kindergarten teacher and later becoming the school librarian, she has inspired a love of reading through thoughtful book selections, engaging programs, and ensuring every student has access to books. Known for her warmth, positivity, and unwavering support, she has made a lasting impact both in and out of the classroom—volunteering at events, supporting teachers, and always going the extra mile. As she prepares to retire at the end of the school year, she leaves behind a remarkable legacy of compassion, commitment, and influence.

the Chincoteague Chamber of commerce proudly recognizes businesses serving our community for 50 or more years

Special recognitions were given to businesses that have served the community for 50 or more years. These enduring establishments represent decades of dedication, resilience, and excellence. Their long-standing presence reflects not only business success, but a deep commitment to local causes, job creation, and community leadership. They are an amazing inspiration leading the path for future generations of entrepreneurs to follow.

The following businesses were recognized (years in business): Island Creamery (50), Don's Seafood Restaurant (52), Refuge Inn (52), Andy's Guide Service (60), Museum of Chincoteague Island (60), Sea Shell Motel (60), Tom's Cove Park (60), Lewis Termite & Pest Control (61), Bill's PRIME Seafood & Steaks (65), Holiday Cottages (65), Anchor Inn (66), Mister Whippy (75), Snug Harbor Marina & Resort (75), Salyer Funeral Home (76), Island Theatre (78), American Legion Post #159 (92), and H&H Pharmacy (96).

PRESS RELEASE: Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 Beacon Award Winners

Chincoteague Island, VA - [March 7, 2025] - The Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce is excited to unveil the inaugural Beacon Awards, which will build on the legacy of its Annual Awards event to honor those shining a light on leadership and excellence in our community. While honoring the past, the new format will expand the number of awards presented to individuals and organizations who have made and are making significant contributions to the growth and success of our community. Engagement is key as community members will actively participate in the nomination and voting processes. 

From historic lighthouses which have guided mariners and safeguarded our shores since 1833 to the Chincoteague Beacon newspaper, founded by the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce in 1954 which illuminated the stories of our community, a beacon is an established symbol of the islands. 

The Beacon Awards will serve as a beacon of recognition, highlighting the outstanding achievements that continue to shape Chincoteague Island's vibrancy. Through this transformation, the Chamber aims to create a broader platform for honoring those who go above and beyond in making Chincoteague a thriving and inspiring place to live, work, and visit. The awards will honor excellence in two categories; Annual Achievement Awards and Community Impact Awards.

In 1990, the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce introduced the Leonard 'Buddy' Burton Outstanding Business Person of the Year and John White Shields Outstanding Citizen of the Year awards at their Annual Awards event. Since that time, seventy-six (76) esteemed members of our community have been honored. In addition, each year the Chamber presents the Nicki L. West Memorial Scholarship to a deserving Chincoteague High School senior. These recognitions are the Chamber's cornerstone awards and will continue to be an integral part of this new event as Annual Achievement Awards.

Leonard 'Buddy' Burton Outstanding Business Person: Recognizes an individual who has demonstrated excellence in professional and community leadership and exhibits the highest of moral and ethical standards that has been a Chincoteague Island resident and/or employed by a Chincoteague business for at least five (5) years and has made, or is making, significant contributions to the welfare of the community through involvement and participation. 

John White Shields Outstanding Citizen: Recognizes an individual who has consistently demonstrated excellence in community leadership and exhibits the highest of moral and ethical standards and has made, or is making, significant contributions to the welfare of the community through involvement and participation, who as lived on Chincoteague Island for at least five (5) years.

Young Person of the Year: The Nicki L. West Memorial Scholarship recognizes a Chincoteague High School Senior who will continue their higher education at a 2-year, 4-year, or technical school of higher learning. Seniors can submit their scholarship application through the high school guidance office as part of the local scholarship program.

As part of the expanded awards initiative, the Chamber is introducing three new Community Impact Awards. These new honors aim to celebrate the individuals, businesses, and initiatives that are making a significant difference in the community. Through these awards, the Chamber seeks to recognize exceptional contributions across a variety of sectors, from innovative projects and educational dedication to the success of emerging businesses. Each award highlights a specific area of impact and provides an opportunity to showcase the many ways in which people and organizations are working to create a stronger, more dynamic Chincoteague. 

Best Initiative: Recognizing an outstanding initiative launched in the last two years that demonstrates innovation, impact, and positive contributions to an organization or our community.

Educator of the Year: Recognizing the extraordinary efforts of an individual who has dedicated their life to education in all its forms. It can recognize a teacher but also a mentor, counselor, administrator, librarian, coach, tour guide, or anyone who contributes to the growth and development of learners of all ages in the Chincoteague community through dedication, leadership, and positivity.

Emerging Business: Recognizing an outstanding new business, who has been in business for five (5) or less years that demonstrates innovation, growth, and a positive impact on the community. 

The Chamber encourages residents, visitors, business owners, and organizations to submit nominations for individuals or entities who exemplify the qualities of leadership, community service, innovation, and impact. Nominations forms can be downloaded at ChincoteagueChamber.com/Special-Recognitions and will be accepted through April 1, 2025.

Annual Achievement Award nominations will be reviewed by and recipients determined by a designated committee, as in previous years. Community Impact Award nominations will be reviewed by the committee and top nominations will be announced with online community voting to determine the winner. Full voting details will be announced in mid-April. 

“We are excited to introduce the Beacon Awards as a celebration of the incredible individuals, businesses, and initiatives that help make Chincoteague Island a truly special place,” said Joanne Moore, Executive Director of the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce. “This redesigned event builds on our rich tradition of honoring excellence, while expanding the scope of recognition to reflect the diverse contributions that shape our community’s growth and vibrancy. The Beacon Awards provide a platform to showcase the dedication, innovation, and leadership that continue to inspire us all. We look forward to celebrating those who go above and beyond to make Chincoteague Island the ‘Beautiful Land Across the Water’ and shine a light on the importance of guidance, excellence, and leadership in our community.”

The Beacon Awards will be held on June 5 from 5pm – 7pm at the Chincoteague Center with light fare provided. The evening will be a time to honor nominees and recipients of the Annual Achievement and Community Impact Awards, recognize long-standing businesses for their resilience, dedication, and significant contributions to the community over the years, and networking. More details and RSVP information will be shared soon.