Imagine Thomasville proudly hosted its annual Community Impact Awards on February 12, celebrating the individuals and organizations whose dedication and service continue to strengthen and uplift our community. The event, held at the Biscuit Company, brought together local leaders, businesses, and residents for an evening of recognition and appreciation. We are especially appreciative of our Co-Presenting Sponsors, 1915 South/Ashley Furniture and Check Mate Industries as well as our Entertainment Sponsor, Chicken Salad Chick.
The awards ceremony honored exceptional contributions across multiple categories, shining a spotlight on those whose commitment and leadership have made a meaningful and lasting impact in Thomasville. The winners of the 2025 Imagine Thomasville Community Impact Awards are as follows:
Small Business of the Year: Sea Gate Printing Co.
Since opening its doors in October 2008, Sea Gate has been guided by a simple philosophy: to provide first-rate customer service while turning their clients' creative dreams into reality. Behind the scenes is a team with decades of industry expertise, led by a founder who believes that their work is not just about ink on paper, but about building lasting relationships within our community. From helping local startups find their identity to supporting our regional non-profits with complex mailings, they have become the silent engine behind the professional image of countless organizations across South Georgia and North Florida.
Large Business of the Year: McIntosh Clinic
Since its founding, the McIntosh Clinic has evolved into a physician-owned, multi-specialty powerhouse that defines what it means to be a 'progressive medical community’. In an industry where the personal touch can often be lost to technology, this organization has mastered the balance of both. They have integrated state-of-the-art diagnostic tools—from in-house laboratory and radiology departments to advanced pathology while maintaining a primary focus on compassionate, individualized patient care. With a team of board-certified experts spanning Internal Medicine, Rheumatology, Pulmonology, Dermatology, and more, they have created a 'one-stop' medical home that simplifies the healthcare journey for thousands of local families.
Non-Profit of the Year: Thomasville Center for the Arts
Their story began in a historic 1915 elementary school building that had fallen into disrepair, until a group of visionary citizens rallied to preserve it—not just as a monument to the past, but as a gateway to the future. Over the last several decades, they have transformed this space into a creative hub that brings together over 85,000 people annually. Their impact is felt far beyond the walls of their galleries. Whether they are publishing a magazine that profiles our community's brightest ideas, hosting world-class performances in their renovated theater, or leading city-wide cultural planning, their mission remains clear: to make lives brighter through the arts.
Man of the Year: Ricky Zambrano, City of Thomasville
If you’ve attended a local event, sought a partner for a civic project, or looked for a champion for our youth, chances are you’ve seen Ricky leading the charge. His influence is woven into the very fabric of our local boards and organizations. From serving with the Rotary Club and Leadership Thomas to providing vital guidance for Hands on Thomas County and the Salvation Army, his leadership is as versatile as it is tireless. He is a passionate advocate for the next generation, frequently stepping into our school systems to mentor students on workforce readiness. He is dedicated to ensuring our students are prepared for the future, offering them both practical education and a model of advocacy to follow. Perhaps most remarkably, he is one of the 'go-to' leaders for nearly every major event held by the City of Thomasville. No matter the scale of the task or the pressure of the moment, he is consistently there with a helping hand and—most importantly—a trademark smile on his face.
Woman of the Year: Jackie Spadoni, Caldwell & Langford
Jackie is an individual whose familiar face is at almost every milestone in our city, from the first snip of the ribbon at a new business opening to the complex planning sessions that shape our future. Her commitment to service is reflected in a resume of leadership that spans across the Chamber, Thomasville Young Professionals, and Hands on Thomas County. After graduating from the Leadership Thomas program, she didn't just walk away with a certificate; she chose to give back as a facilitator, dedicating her time to helping others grow both personally and professionally. But perhaps her most vibrant contribution is her role as a founder of OakFest. What began as a vision for a community gathering blossomed into a massive annual success, one that served a deeply noble purpose. Through her tireless efforts and creative leadership, she helped raise significant funds for the Treehouse Children’s Advocacy Center, providing a voice and a sanctuary for the most vulnerable among us. She is a connector, a mentor, and a trailblazer who leads with both her head and her heart. Whether she is advocating for our young professionals or building a legacy of charity through music and community, she embodies the very best of Thomasville.
Bicentennial Award for Thomas County
Their story began with a single legislative act on December 23, 1825—an act that marked the founding of Thomas County and the beginning of two centuries of service, stewardship, and shared history. Across generations, Thomas County has been shaped by the strength, resilience, and community spirit of those who have called it home. For 200 years, this legacy has honored the past while inspiring the future. We celebrate Thomas County for 200 years of excellence.
Bicentennial Award for the City of Thomasville
Their story began in December 1826, marking the founding of a community that would grow into the City of Thomasville. Over the past 200 years, Thomasville has become known for its beauty, resilience, and enduring sense of place—earning its identity as the “City of Roses.” Generations of residents, leaders, and visionaries have shaped a city that honors its past while continuing to inspire a vibrant future for all who live, work, and visit here. In recognition of this milestone, the City of Thomasville is celebrated for 200 years of excellence.
Imagine Thomasville extends its sincere congratulations to all award recipients and thanks them for their continued efforts to make our community a better place to live, work, and grow. These awards reflect the shared spirit, collaboration, and pride that define the Thomasville community.