Columbia Metro Rotary Club

2009 Metro Rotary Public Service Award

Don Laird, President of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce has been recognized as the recipient of the 2009 Metro Rotary Public Service Award. The award was presented during the club’s June 3 meeting at the Columbia Country Club.

The purpose of this award is to recognize someone in the community’s public sector who adheres to the highest ethical standards in their work, including the fair treatment of employers, employees, associates, competitors and the public; and one who contributes their talents to the problems and needs of society.

Don is a native of Grand Forks, North Dakota, and graduate of the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. He received a master’s degree at the University of Missouri. He and his wife Joey reside in Columbia, and they have two grown sons.

Don has been the President of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce since December 1988. In his nomination, Don was commended for “helping numerous business and individuals grow and prosper resulting in a better community for us all.” A highly ethical man who is respected among peers and colleagues, Don is a member of the Columbia Downtown Rotary Club and exemplifies “Service Above Self.”

Don Laird is an asset to the Columbia community. We are proud to honor Don as the 2009 Metro Rotary Public Service Award winner.