Business, education, and community leaders from across Coastal Mississippi gathered June 23 at the Great Southern Club for the 2026 Business & Leadership Awards Luncheon, co-hosted by William Carey University and the Gulf Coast Business Council. The annual event celebrates leadership, service, and community impact while raising scholarship funds for students pursuing business degrees at William Carey University’s Tradition Campus.
The 2026 luncheon marked an exciting new chapter for the event. Following a thoughtful reimagining of the program, William Carey University and GCBC expanded the awards to recognize a broader range of leaders whose contributions strengthen the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This year’s program featured enhanced recognition opportunities, including the introduction of the inaugural Joseph C. Canizaro Leadership Award.
Celebrating Leadership Across the Gulf Coast
In his welcome remarks, GCBC President and CEO Jamie Miller emphasized the importance of recognizing leaders whose vision, service, and commitment continue to shape the future of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
“We believe leadership takes many forms,” Miller said. “Today’s honorees represent the innovation, service, and commitment that continue to move our region forward.”
William Carey University President and CEO Dr. Ben Burnett highlighted the university’s commitment to developing servant leaders and the importance of honoring individuals who create opportunities and improve lives throughout the region.
Honoring Business and Community Leadership
This year’s Small Business & Community Leadership Awards recognized two outstanding leaders whose contributions have strengthened the Gulf Coast in distinct ways.
Sean and Crystal Westmoreland, owners of Dixie Glass, were recognized for their business leadership and commitment to serving communities across the Mississippi Gulf Coast. A third-generation family business founded in Pascagoula in 1946, Dixie Glass has grown into a trusted multi-location operation while maintaining its reputation for quality craftsmanship, customer service, and community involvement.
The Community Leadership Award was presented to Cindy DeFrances, Executive Director of Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. Since assuming leadership of the organization in 2011, DeFrances has guided Lynn Meadows to national recognition while championing educational equity, school readiness, community outreach, and the arts. Her work has positively impacted children and families throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast for decades.
Inaugural Joseph C. Canizaro Leadership Award Presented
A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the first-ever Joseph C. Canizaro Leadership Award.
Established by William Carey University and the Gulf Coast Business Council, the award recognizes an executive leader, leadership team, or entrepreneur who demonstrates exceptional leadership, ethical business practices, and measurable community impact. The award honors the legacy of Dr. Joseph C. Canizaro, whose vision and philanthropy played a significant role in the development of William Carey University’s Tradition Campus and the advancement of educational opportunities on the Gulf Coast.
The inaugural recipient, Alan Sudduth, serves as Corporate Affairs Manager for Chevron and has dedicated his career to public service, community engagement, and leadership. In addition to overseeing Chevron’s public and government affairs activities across Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas, Sudduth has served in numerous civic, educational, environmental, and charitable leadership roles throughout the region.
Investing in Future Business Leaders
In addition to honoring established leaders, the luncheon continued its tradition of investing in the next generation through scholarships benefiting students in William Carey University’s School of Business.
This year’s scholarship recipients included Richard Bowman of Wiggins, Lauren Hall of Pass Christian, and Amanda Stubbs of Gautier. Funds raised through the event support the Tradition School of Business Scholarship Fund, helping students pursue undergraduate and graduate business degrees while preparing for leadership roles in Mississippi’s workforce.
Leadership, Education, and Regional Growth
The luncheon concluded with a keynote address from Robert St. John, founder and CEO of New South Restaurant Group, whose entrepreneurial success, philanthropy, and community leadership have made him one of Mississippi’s most respected business leaders.
As the partnership between William Carey University and the Gulf Coast Business Council continues to grow, the Business & Leadership Awards Luncheon remains an important opportunity to celebrate leadership excellence, support educational advancement, and recognize the individuals helping shape the future of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
GCBC extends its congratulations to all award recipients and scholarship honorees, and thanks William Carey University, event sponsors, and community partners for their continued commitment to leadership development and regional success.
