The Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce hosted its 17th annual Business Awards Dinner, presented by Salt River Project, on Thursday, September 24, at Encanterra Country Club. The evening celebrated the local businesses, educators, and community leaders whose dedication and contributions help make a difference throughout Queen Creek.

Ron Valerio was named the 2026 Volunteer of the Year for his dedication to bringing people together and making a difference in the Queen Creek community. As President of the Queen Creek Rotary Club and through his work with Unison Mortgage, Ron supports causes that matter to local families. His leadership of the Annual Queen Creek Run for Resilience has helped raise awareness around teen mental health, connect families with vital resources, and strengthen youth resilience. His compassion, leadership, and commitment to serving others make him a true champion for Queen Creek.

Taryn Whelan was named the 2026 Educator of the Year for her outstanding commitment to student success and the Queen Creek community. As a mathematics teacher at Queen Creek High School, Taryn creates an engaging and supportive learning environment while helping students build confidence and achieve their academic goals. She is also a collaborative leader who supports and mentors her colleagues and is a dedicated presence at student activities, athletic events, performances, and other school events. Her passion for students, commitment to her colleagues, and dedication to the school community make her an exceptional educator and role model.

ReliaBookkeeping was named the 2026 Small Business of the Year for its commitment to helping small businesses and individuals take control of their finances. Founded by Leah Johnson, ReliaBookkeeping provides bookkeeping, payroll, tax management, budgeting, and other financial support services designed to help clients stay organized and make informed decisions. With a focus on personalized service, clear communication, and building trusted relationships, ReliaBookkeeping provides practical financial support tailored to each client’s needs.

Pecan Lake Entertainment was named the 2026 Business of the Year for its continued contribution to Queen Creek as a destination for family entertainment and community gatherings. Pecan Lake brings together a wide variety of attractions, including go-karts, a ropes course, laser tag, arcade games, escape rooms, a 21-hole putting course, and more, along with dining and event spaces. With experiences designed for families, groups, school outings, celebrations, and corporate events, Pecan Lake has created a place where people can come together, have fun, and make lasting memories.

This year’s nominees also included Julie Hartman and Blake Mastyk for Volunteer of the Year; Caitlin Holbrook and Heidi Mixon for Educator of the Year; Hope Heart Heal and Right at Home for Small Business of the Year; and Amberlin Queen Creek and Chick-fil-A Ironwood for Business of the Year. To learn more about this year’s winners and nominees, visit the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce YouTube channel to watch their videos.

“Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and nominees. Each year, we’re reminded just how many people, educators, and businesses are making a difference in our community. These awards are an opportunity to recognize those contributions and shine a light on the people who show up, serve others, support local businesses, and help make Queen Creek such a special place to live and work,” said Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce.

The event was sponsored by: Salt River Project, VLI Events, Affinity Dental, Angel Air Cooling and Heating, Arizona State University, Banner Ironwood Medical Center, Brenits Creative, LG Energy Solution Arizona, Inc., Central Arizona College, Chick-fil-A Ironwood & Ocotillo, Dignity Health, Hope Heart Heal, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Mesa Gateway Airport, Prostrike Pest Solutions, Queen Creek Marketplace, ReliaBookkeeping, San Tan Ford, San Tan Memorial Gardens at Schnepf Farms, and The Shooting Range.

Photos taken by: Dana Gibbons Photography.

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About Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce
Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce was formed in 2002 to solve problems so you can thrive because strong businesses create strong communities.