DBT Reveals Recipients of the 2024 CEO of the Year Awards- Terri Kelly

Crypto News– Delaware Business Times is thrilled to announce the distinguished honorees of its fourth annual CEO of the Year program for 2024.

DBT Reveals Recipients of the 2024 CEO of the Year Awards- Terri Kelly

This esteemed awards program celebrates the remarkable contributions of Delaware’s foremost business leaders across both for-profit and nonprofit sectors. Carefully selected by an impartial judging panel, the winners will be feted at a captivating reception and awards ceremony on June 27th, to be held at the elegant Christiana Hilton in Newark. Secure your tickets now to join in the celebration of excellence.

In addition to recognizing outstanding CEOs, this annual program shines a spotlight on a remarkable individual with the Milestone Award. This accolade is bestowed upon someone who has exhibited remarkable and sustained achievements while at the helm of a business or nonprofit organization within Delaware. Furthermore, honorees of this prestigious award exhibit a commitment to enhancing the broader community of the state. We are proud to announce Terri Kelly as the esteemed recipient of the 2024 Milestone Award, acknowledging her exceptional leadership and positive impact on Delaware’s community at large.

Terri Kelly isn’t just your average CEO; she’s a powerhouse leader with a track record that speaks volumes. For an impressive 13 years, from 2008 to 2015, she held the prestigious position of President and CEO at W.L. Gore & Associates.

Now, if you’re not familiar with Gore, let me fill you in. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill company; it’s a global juggernaut that rakes in a whopping $3 billion in annual revenue. And what’s their claim to fame? Oh, just some of the most groundbreaking products out there, like Gore-Tex fabric that’s a game-changer in outdoor gear, cutting-edge medical devices, and even cables used in space exploration. Yeah, they’re kind of a big deal.

But what sets Gore apart isn’t just their innovative products; it’s their unique corporate culture. You see, at Gore, they don’t have employees; they have associates. And every associate, from the top brass to the folks on the front lines, plays a crucial role in driving the company’s success.

Now, here’s where it gets really cool. Terri Kelly wasn’t just handed the CEO title; she earned it, big time. She was nominated for the role by a diverse group of associates within the company, a testament to her widespread respect and admiration among her peers.

So, when you think of Terri Kelly, think of a trailblazer who led one of the world’s most innovative companies to new heights, all while championing a culture where every voice matters. That’s the kind of leader who leaves a lasting legacy.

Terri Kelly’s journey at W.L. Gore & Associates is nothing short of remarkable. She dedicated her entire career to the company, starting from the ground up as a product specialist and steadily climbing the ladder to take on increasingly influential roles. Along the way, she spearheaded the development of several divisions and left an indelible mark by establishing Gore’s first fabrics plant in Asia, located in Shenzhen, China.

Stepping into the role of Gore’s fourth CEO, Terri Kelly assumed leadership over a global empire, steering a colossal $3 billion in revenue and overseeing the well-being of a staggering 10,000 employees spread across the globe. Her tenure was marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity.

Patti Grimes, the executive director of the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation, has earned the well-deserved title of Large Nonprofit CEO of the Year. Her tenure at the Freeman Foundation spans 17 impactful years, during which she’s spearheaded initiatives bringing top-tier cultural and arts experiences to both visitors and students across Sussex County.

Since taking the reins in 2009, Grimes has been instrumental in the Freeman Arts Pavilion’s meteoric rise, drawing in a staggering half a million visitors. But her impact doesn’t stop there. Through the Freeman Foundation’s Arts Access Initiative, in partnership with local schools and community organizations, Grimes has ensured that students throughout southern Delaware have year-round access to live music, dance, comedy, and more.