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Sundermann named Citizen of Year by GJ Chamber. The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce named Brigitte Sundermann its Citizen of the Year during its annual banquet Feb. 27 at the Grand Junction Convention Center. Sundermann's award was one of four the chamber bestows annually, recognizing excellence in business and community leadership. The other honorees were: * Young Professional of the Year: Nick Gumpert. * Small Business of the Year: Maid 2 Impress. * Large Business of the Year: High Country Beverage. The Chamber also recognized outgoing board leadership, including 2025 Board Chair Evan Walton and board members Frank Lindemann, Kelly Johnston and Ed Krey, for their dedicated service and commitment to advancing the chamber's mission. The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce offered the following summaries about each of its four award recipients: Citizen of the Year - Brigitte Sundermann The Chamber's Citizen of the Year award recognizes an individual whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact on the Grand Junction community. Brigitte Sundermann was selected for her ability to identify the evolving needs of the business community and bring partners together to create meaningful solutions. Through her leadership at CMU Tech, she has helped strengthen connections between education and industry, expanding technical training and workforce pathways that support both local employers and students pursuing career opportunities in Western Colorado. With a background in engineering and a career shaped by hands-on learning, teaching and leadership, Sundermann has consistently focused on creating opportunities for others. Colleagues and community partners recognize her collaborative approach, practical problem-solving, and her ability to unite organizations around shared goals that move the region forward. Known for her optimism and signature smile, her impact continues to strengthen Grand Junction's workforce, business community and future leaders. Large Business of the Year - High Country Beverage High Country Beverage was recognized as Large Business of the Year for its sustained economic investment, strong workplace culture and deep commitment to community partnership across the Western Slope. Founded in 1996 and expanding into Western Colorado in 2012, the family-owned company has grown into a major regional employer while maintaining a strong focus on service, responsibility and long-term investment. Under the leadership of CEO Dave Nichols and President Steve Nichols, High Country Beverage continues to prioritize employees, supplier relationships and customer partnerships while contributing significantly to the regional economy. The company actively supports numerous nonprofit and civic organizations throughout Mesa County and surrounding communities and empowers employees through a unique giving program that directs charitable contributions to causes meaningful to its team members. As High Country Beverage prepares to open its expanded multi-million-dollar facility, the investment reflects the company's continued confidence in and commitment to the future of Western Colorado. Small Business of the Year - Maid2Impress Maid2Impress was honored as Small Business of the Year for transforming a small startup concept into a growing regional business while maintaining a strong commitment to community service. Founded in 2009, the company has grown from modest beginnings into a trusted cleaning-services provider serving communities throughout Western Colorado. Today, Maid2Impress employs dozens of team members and has expanded services to meet the evolving needs of businesses and residents across the region. Beyond business growth, Maid2Impress has consistently reinvested in the community through fundraising efforts, nonprofit partnerships, youth sports sponsorships and direct support for local families and organizations. Their sponsorship of the "I'm A Survivor Fashion Show," benefiting oncology patients through Community Hospital's gas and lodging assistance program, reflects the company's belief that business success should positively impact the community it serves. Young Professional of the Year - Nick Gumpert Nick Gumpert was named Young Professional of the Year for his commitment to cultivating leadership, encouraging innovation and investing in the future of Grand Junction's business community. A Grand Junction native and Colorado Mesa University alumnus, Gumpert has demonstrated a passion for helping others grow alongside his own professional success. Through his leadership at The UPS Store, educational efforts teaching emerging technologies at CMU Tech, and involvement in the Chamber's Young Professionals initiatives, he actively encourages peers to remain adaptable and forward-thinking in a rapidly changing business environment. In addition to his professional work, Gumpert mentors youth and supports leadership development through his involvement with Fire FC and Grand Junction Soccer Club while serving in community leadership roles that strengthen local organizations. The award recognizes a young leader dedicated not only to business success, but to encouraging others on the path toward strong leadership and meaningful lives. Sundermann named Citizen of Year by GJ Chamber added by The Business Times Staff on March 3, 2026 View all posts by The Business Times Staff