The PACE awards began in 1959 as the Business, Industry & Professional Awards, sponsored by the Pensacola Chamber and the Pensacola News Journal.
PACE Awards – 10 Years Ago
Emerging Leader: Jonathan Griffin, executive VP of the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, for “his involvement with governing and operating one of the most successful minor-league franchises in the nation.”
Professional Leader: Denny Wilson, former Oakcrest Elementary School principal, for “his effort that eventually led to his school receiving an ‘A’ rating for the first time in its history.”
Community Leader: Beverly Zimmern, Gulf Breeze mayor, for managing “the city during several major disasters.”
Business Leader: Dr. Sunil Gupta, top retinal surgeon, for “his research and clinical trials that have paved the way for several advancements in retina therapies and treatments worldwide.”
Spirit of Pensacola: Eric Nickelsen, retired banker, for “his lifetime service to the local business and professional community.”
Pioneer Award: Jerry Maygarden, former Pensacola mayor and state lawmaker, for “his distinguished professional career and lasting impact on Northwest Florida.”
PACE Awards – 15 Years Ago
Emerging Leader: Debbie Calder, Senior VP of Navy Federal Credit Union. Top executive of the Beulah campuss with 1,200 employees.
Professional Leader: Dr. James Andrews, namesake of Andrews Institute, president of the American Orthopedics Association
Community Leader: Dr. Coy Irvin, for leading the year-long 450th anniversary of Pensacola’s founding.
Business Leaders: Dave & Mary Hoxeng, owners of Cat Country.
Spirit of Pensacola: James & Betty Salter, founders of Pensacola Habitat For Humanity. for having “built more than 650 houses in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties”