JANESVILLE, Wis. (March 18, 2026) – Forward Janesville, Janesville’s Chamber of Commerce and private sector economic development leader in Rock County, is proud to announce the honorees for our 2026 Annual Awards Luncheon, presented by Baker Tilly.
The 25th annual event will be held Wednesday, April 22, from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at The Holiday Inn Express & Janesville Conference Center.
The Awards Luncheon recognizes and honors the businesses, organizations and individual members that have made a positive impact in our community in 2025. There are 10 award categories.
Headlining this year’s impressive list of honorees is Quint and Rishy Studer, who will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by JP Cullen.
Through decades of visionary leadership, philanthropy, and hands-on involvement, the Studers have played a transformative role in shaping the city’s economic vitality and quality of life—particularly through their continued investment in downtown revitalization and local business development. From creating welcoming community spaces to supporting small businesses through mentorship and resources, their contributions reflect a deep and ongoing commitment to making Janesville a place where people and businesses can thrive. Together, Quint and Rishy have championed nonprofit organizations, supported youth development and education initiatives, and invested in projects that create opportunity, connection, and community pride. Their legacy is not defined by a single achievement, but by a sustained and intentional commitment to giving back—making Janesville stronger today and for generations to come.
The honorees at this year’s Annual Awards Luncheon are:
- Kate Kuhl (HealthNet of Rock County), Emerging Leader Award, sponsored by BMO
- Rick Mueller (Jax Custom Printing), Community Improvement Award, sponsored by PremierBank
- Fritz Elsen and John Zimmerman (School District of Janesville), Educators of the Year, sponsored by Blackhawk Technical College
- Amanda Stefl (Timber Hill Winery), Entrepreneur of the Year, sponsored by First National Bank & Trust
- Project 16:49, Diversity Award, sponsored by Minuteman Press
- Andy Jones (MercyCare Health Plans), Ambassador of the Year, sponsored by Boomerang Home Rentals
- Tanner Voss (BMO), Advocacy Award, sponsored by JNB Signs, Inc.
- Avondale Roofing, Business of the Year (fewer than 50 employees), sponsored by Nowlan Law
- United Alloy, Business of the Year (50 or more employees), sponsored by Johnson Financial Group
- Quint and Rishy Studer, Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by JP Cullen
Join us in celebrating this year's honorees. Register here to secure your table or seat today!