2026 Annual Meeting Celebrates Leadership, Service and Community Impact
On March 25, the Decatur–Morgan County Chamber of Commerce held its 2026 Annual Meeting, presented by Indorama Ventures, bringing together business and community leaders to reflect on the past year and look ahead to the future of Decatur-Morgan County.
Outgoing Board Chairwoman Kelli Powers, President of Decatur Morgan Hospital, passed the gavel to Chair-elect Cindy Smith, Financial Advisor at Edward Jones. This transition marks the beginning of the Chamber’s new fiscal year, with the incoming Executive Committee and Board of Directors officially assuming their roles on April 1, 2026.
The program also featured keynote speaker Steve Bateman, Senior Pastor of First Bible Church in Decatur and a respected historian, who presented “The Power of Belonging: Why Communities That Work Together Win,” emphasizing the importance of connection and collaboration in building strong communities.
During the event, Mary Ratliff was presented with the 2026 Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce’s Miss Athelyne C. Banks Citizen of the Year Award. Named after longtime Decatur educator Miss Athelyne C. Banks, the award honors individuals whose lives reflect a deep commitment to service, leadership and faithfulness to the community. Mary has dedicated decades to preserving natural resources and guiding the growth of Decatur-Morgan County. She played an instrumental role in establishing the Festival of the Cranes, which has grown into one of the region’s most celebrated events, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year while showcasing the beauty of Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Her passion for conservation is also evident in her work to protect the endangered whooping crane, as well as her long-standing service on the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Board, including 19 years as president. In addition, she has served for 17 years on the Priceville Planning Commission, helping guide responsible development and long-term planning.
“Through her leadership in establishing the Festival of the Cranes, Mary Ratliff has helped bring visitors from across the country and around the world to Decatur-Morgan County. Her vision and dedication have not only celebrated our natural resources but also strengthened our community through tourism and shared experiences,” said Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Crystal Brown.
Philip Wright was recognized as the 2026 Rosie Hennessy Commodore of the Year. The Commodores are a group of professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to welcome and mentor new members, build membership and raise awareness of Chamber programs and benefits. A leader in the real estate industry, Philip is a multi-million-dollar producer and leads The Wright Bunch Team brokered by MeritHouse Realty. He was previously recognized by the Chamber as the 2024 Arthur Orr Young Professional of the Year.
Beyond his professional success, Philip is deeply committed to serving others. Alongside his wife, Vickie, he serves as a foster parent and is actively involved as a youth pastor, investing in the next generation. His dedication to the community is further reflected in his service on various boards and committees and his role in helping raise more than $100,000 for local charities supporting children and families.
As a Commodore, Philip is known for his enthusiasm, leadership and willingness to serve. His peers selected him for this honor in recognition of his commitment and positive impact on the Chamber and the community.
The award is named in honor of Rosie Hennessy, who served as a Commodore from the 1980s through the mid-1990s. Following her passing, the Commodores established this award in 1998 to recognize individuals who embody her spirit of service, enthusiasm and character.
Thank you to our presenting sponsor Indorama Ventures, gold sponsors Calhoun Community College, Huntsville International Airport and Jackson Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical & Septic, an ACE Hardware Company and silver sponsors Ascend Performance Materials, Bank Independent - 2nd Ave. and North Central Alabama Regional Council of Governments.