Ward and Smith is pleased to sponsor the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce's 159th Annual Meeting, one of the region's most significant business gatherings of the year, on Thursday, February 12.
This annual event brings together more than 500 business and community leaders who are shaping the future of southeastern North Carolina, and we are proud to support an evening that celebrates leadership, connection, and progress.
The 2026 Annual Meeting will highlight the Chamber's accomplishments from the past year and outline priorities for the year ahead, while also recognizing outstanding leadership within our business community. The program will honor outgoing 2025 Board Chair Jim Hundley Jr. of Thomas Construction Group and welcome incoming 2026 Board Chair Nicolas Montoya of Trailborn Surf & Sound and Montoya Business Group. Attendees will also celebrate Duke Energy Lifetime Achievement in Business honoree Chip Mahan of Live Oak Bank.
This year's keynote speaker, Dee Ann Turner, brings more than three decades of experience from Chick‑fil‑A, where she served as the company's first female officer and as Vice President of Talent and Sustainability. Her keynote on customer excellence is expected to deliver practical insights for leaders across industries.
As a firm deeply rooted in the Cape Fear region, Ward and Smith values opportunities that strengthen relationships and support a thriving business community. Sponsoring the Chamber's Annual Meeting reflects our continued commitment to the clients, organizations, and leaders who make this region a great place to live and work. Click here to register for the event.
Date: Thursday, February 12
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Wilmington Convention Center | Wilmington, NC