They were honored in a ceremony Thursday night at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. The event to celebrate contributions to the community also marked the first year KABA recognized individuals rather than businesses.

KABA President Nicole Ryf reflected on successes of local businesses in the past year.

“Kenosha County has experienced an incredible year of growth and opportunity — with new investments, more jobs, and a wave of development transforming our community,” Ryf said. “Leading companies like Eli Lilly, Smurfit Westrock, and Schutz are choosing to site new facilities here, while our homegrown champions like Uline, Centrisys, and L & M Corrugated continue to thrive and expand.”

“There are many outstanding individuals and businesses that are being honored,” Kerkman said.

Ryf praised the work of individual leaders in Kenosha County have accomplished.

Business Leader of Year

Tim Neal was named Business Leader of the Year. The award celebrates an individual who has driven growth and innovation within their company, Ryf said.

Neal is president of Allied Plastics. A Twin-Lakes based plastic manufacturer, the company creates custom vacuum formed components.

Impact Award

KABA recognized Brian Nelson, the vice president of Bane-Nelson, with Community Impact Award.

“This award celebrates a business leader who understands that success isn’t just measured by their profits, but by the positive difference you can make in the lives of others,” Ryf said.

Nelson is also involved with nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace, an organization that provides children in need with beds.

Future Five

Future Five Awards, honoring young professionals who are already making a powerful impact, went to:

• Maggie Campbell, the director of strategic initiatives at Building Our Future, a local education partnership in Kenosha County.
• Nolan Flynn, director of marketing at LaMacchia Travel.
• Sarah Howard, executive director of Visit Pleasant Prairie.
• Savannah Meyers, Community Development Educator at University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension Kenosha County.
• Dan and Nick Tenuta, co-managers of Tenuta’s Deli.

Annual meeting set

“Kenosha County isn’t just a great place to do business — it’s a community full of momentum, heart, and possibility. Its future is bright because of the people who show up, give back, and believe in what we’re building together,” Ryf said.

“By supporting local organizations, celebrating our wins, and leaning into what’s next, we can take this community from strong to unstoppable,” she said.

Read more at the Kenosha News.