Ventura, Calif. (Jan. 21, 2013)–The strength and success of VCEDA depends on the many members who volunteer their time and resources to serve on committees and taskforces to accomplish the mission and goals of the organization. Here are the 64th Annual VCEDA Installation Award recipients.

Bill Camarillo, Dr. Charles Maxey, Nan Drake, Ellen Brown & Mike Powers

Outgoing Chairman: Bill Camarillo, CEO, Agromin

Bill served two years (2011 and 2012) as Chairman of the Ventura County Economic Development Association. Bill’s tenure has exemplified VCEDA’s value of collaboration and has fostered relationships new and old.  Bill was instrumental in forwarding VCEDA’s message with a new website and logo and provided leadership in the planning of two successful business conferences that focused on sustainability and education.

Carl F. Lowthrop Golden Eagle Award: Nan Drake, Harrison Industries

The Carl Lowthrop Golden Eagle Award is VCEDA’s highest honor and is given every year to the volunteer demonstrating exemplary character.  Carl Lowthorp’s vision guided VCEDA for over 20 years.  Carl was an extremely active supporter of VCEDA and is still keenly missed by all that had the privilege of working with him.

Dr. James F. Cowan Award of Excellence in Education: Dr. Charles Maxey, Dean, School of Business, California Lutheran University 

The Dr. James F. Cowan Award of Excellence in Education is presented to the individual or organization investing time and energy demonstrating the synergy between business and education to ensure our future workforce.

VCEDA Spirit of Government Award: Michael Powers, COO, County of Ventura

The Spirit of Government Award is presented to the person who exemplifies the private and public partnership, who recognizes that business and government must work together to remove barriers and find solutions to ensure economic vitality and quality of life.