Harford Chamber Announces Harford Award Recipients, Celebrates Shining Stars of Business at 32nd Annual Ceremony

Harford Chamber Announces Harford Award Recipients, Celebrates Shining Stars of Business at 32nd Annual Ceremony

Bel Air, MD – Members of the Harford County business community and local dignitaries gathered for the 32nd annual Harford Award on Monday, October 19th at Water’s Edge Events Center. The prestigious award honors companies and organizations which exemplify a strong commitment to the Harford County business community. Recipients are chosen through a nomination/application process focused on business growth, increased employment, unique and creative business strategies, technology innovation, and charitable contributions.

Monica Worrell, Business Banking Loan Officer at APG Federal Credit Union and current Harford County Chamber of Commerce Board Chair, offered welcome remarks. Worrell stated, “The Harford Award recognizes excellence in business and the lasting contributions that strengthen our entire community. It honors the vision, perseverance, innovation, and service that turn individual achievements into a shared foundation for Harford County’s success. Tonight’s honorees remind us that success extends far beyond an individual organization. It can be seen in the jobs they create, the people they mentor, the challenges they solve, and the care they invest in our community.” County Executive Bob Cassilly shared remarks and his congratulations to the recipients. Karen Holt, Director of Economic Development, closed out the evening by thanking the businesses for making Harford County an amazing place to live, work, and do business.

The Harford County Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the 2026 Harford Award Recipients: Towson University in Northeastern Maryland (Non- Profit), Decisive Data Systems (R&D/ Technology), Conrad's Seafood Restaurant (Hospitality/ Tourism), Homeward Bound Veterinary Services (Service), Harford County Public Library (Cornerstone), Jones Junction Automotive Group (Andy Klein Legacy), and Betsy Campion (Chuck Boyle Leadership). In addition to the recipients receiving the Harford Award, each recipient received a citation from the Maryland Department of Commerce, Harford County Executive Cassilly, and the Harford County Council.

Towson University in Northeastern Maryland (TUNE) received the 2026 Harford Award in the Nonprofit category for its commitment to education and the local community. Located on the grounds of Harford Community College in Bel Air, TUNE provides students with an affordable, convenient pathway to earn a bachelor’s degree close to home through partnerships with local community colleges. Offering programs in business, education, nursing, information technology, and more, TUNE expands access to higher education and career opportunities throughout Harford County. The Harford County Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes TUNE for its dedication to serving the community.

Decisive Data Systems is the recipient of the Harford Award in the R&D/Technology category. Founded in 2003, DDSystems provides customized IT services and technology solutions to businesses throughout Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Delaware. Its comprehensive offerings include managed IT support, cybersecurity, cloud services, data backup and recovery, web development, and technology consulting to help businesses operate securely and efficiently. With a focus on building strong relationships, proactive support, and innovative solutions, DDSystems serves as a trusted technology partner, helping organizations focus on growth while leaving their IT needs in expert hands.

Founded by Anthony and Andrea Conrad, Conrad’s Crabs & Seafood Market has been serving up fresh, high-quality Maryland seafood since opening in 2007. Built on Anthony’s passion for crabbing, the family-owned business takes pride in catching, sorting, and steaming its own crabs with a signature seasoning blend to deliver an authentic Maryland seafood experience. Today, Conrad’s operates seafood markets and restaurants throughout Baltimore and Harford Counties, including its Bel Air market and Abingdon restaurant, while continuing its commitment to quality and exceptional customer service. The Harford County Chamber of Commerce is honored to award Conrad’s Crabs & Seafood Abingdon Restaurant the 2026 Harford Award in the Hospitality/Tourism category for their excellent service and continued growth.

The 2026 Service Award Recipient is Homeward Bound Veterinary Services. Homeward Bound Veterinary Services is a locally owned veterinary practice in Bel Air dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality medical care for pets. Led by Dr. Kristen Vance, the practice offers comprehensive veterinary services, including wellness exams, diagnostics, surgery, dental care, and urgent veterinary care. Beyond caring for animals, Homeward Bound is deeply committed to giving back to the community through its support of local animal rescue organizations and initiatives that improve the health and well-being of pets throughout Harford County.

The Harford County Public Library received the 2026 Corner Stone Award. For over 80 years, the Harford County Public Library has served as a cornerstone of the community, providing free access to educational resources, technology, and engaging programs for residents of all ages. With 11 branches throughout Harford County, the library fosters lifelong learning, creativity, and connection through its extensive collections, community events, and innovative services. As the recipient of the 2026 Harford Award Cornerstone Award, Harford County Public Library is recognized for its lasting impact and dedication to enriching lives and strengthening the community.

The Andy Klein Legacy Award recognizes individuals and businesses dedicated to serving Harford County, honoring Andy Klein’s legacy of philanthropy, generosity, and commitment to faith, family, and community. The 2026 recipient, Jones Junction Automotive Group, was founded in 1917 by C.M. Jones and has served Harford County for over a century with a commitment to integrity and exceptional customer service. Today, its 40-acre Bel Air location includes ten dealerships, pre-owned vehicle superstores, and a collision center, employing more than 670 people. The Harford County Chamber of Commerce is honored to recognize Jones Junction for its enduring leadership, community service, and commitment to Harford County.

Chuck Boyle was a lifelong Harford County resident, devoted family man, and respected community member who built a successful career in the family automotive business after serving in the Maryland Air National Guard. A devout Catholic, Chuck cherished his 53-year marriage to his wife, Patricia, their three children, and seven grandchildren. Remembered for his faith, leadership, and dedication to his community, Chuck leaves a lasting legacy honored through the Chuck Boyle Leadership Award. Betsy Campion is recognized with the 2026 Harford Award Chuck Boyle Leadership Award for her outstanding leadership, dedication, and contributions to the Harford County community. Through her professional work and commitment to serving others, Betsy exemplifies the qualities of a strong leader who makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those around her. This award celebrates her impact, community involvement, and continued commitment to helping Harford County thrive.

Watch the 2026 Harford Award videos highlighting the awardees on the Harford County Chamber of Commerce’s Youtube Channel and view the event photos here. Thank you to RL Productions for producing the videos and to MidAtlantic Photographic for photographing the event.

The Harford County Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all the Harford Award recipients, sponsors, and attendees as well as all the Harford County Chamber members for their contribution to local economy growth across all sectors. Thank you to the 2026 Harford Award sponsors: Harford County Office of Economic Development, Harford Community College, Freedom Federal Credit Union, The Kelly Group, Homeward Bound Veterinary Services, Deer Creek Exteriors, Inc., Towson University in Northeastern Maryland, Display Local Media, Kerry Paradis Photography, Harford's Heart Magazine, APG Federal Credit Union, Harford County Public Library, Nancy Stuckey Merritt, Tar Heel Construction Group LLC, Vagabond Sandwich Company, Jarrettsville Federal, Paul Applegate - Financial Advisor Edward Jones, SURVICE Engineering Company, Visiting Angels of Harford & Cecil Counties, Harford Community Action Agency, The Highlands School, Bel Air Downtown Alliance, Inc., Beacon Staffing Alternatives, Inc, Jones Junction Auto Group, University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health, Ashley Addiction Treatment , Baltimore Gas & Electric, Campion Insurance, a Division of Maury, Donnelly, and Parr, Inc., City of Havre de Grace , Conrad's Seafood Restaurant Abingdon, Decisive Data Systems, LLC, Emerald Technical Solutions , Glory Pediatrics, LLC , Harford Bank , Har-co Credit Union, Harford Family House, Inc., Hill Tech Solutions , Inspire Confidence Group, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial, Klein's Family Markets & ShopRite of Maryland, MedStar Health, M&T Bank, Point Breeze Credit Union, Real Life Prosthetics , SARC, Susquehanna Labs, TENAX Technologies, The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region, The John Carroll School, Virtuous Inc, and Weyrich, Cronin & Sorra. Thank you to Accent Printers for printing the program and signage.

--------------------------------------

About the Harford County Chamber of Commerce: The Harford County Chamber of Commerce has worked continually as the recognized voice of business in Harford County since 1976. The Harford Chamber is the premier business advocate in the county, helping members connect and thrive to create a vibrant economy across all sectors. For more information or become a Harford County Chamber member, please contact Bella DeBrigida at admin@harfordchamber.org.