KEVIN DERAMUS, JENNIFER ECKERMANN NAMED WASHINGTON CO. MAN, WOMAN OF YEAR

  

The Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Brenham Economic Development Foundation have named the county’s Man and Woman of the Year for 2020.

Washington County EMS Director Kevin Deramus and City of Brenham Tourism and Marketing Director Jennifer Eckermann received the honors during a virtual ceremony today (Tuesday).

Chamber President Wende Ragonis surprised Deramus with the announcement.

 

2019’s Man of the Year, Charlie Matejowsky, recognized Deramus for his work heading EMS operations for the county, and for overseeing the effort to bring a medical helicopter to the county.  He also lauded his work as part of the Texas A&M Task Force 1 search and rescue team.  Matejowsky said Deramus has a “humble nature,” has “dedicated his life to public service,” and “works tirelessly to support the health and welfare of our community.”

Here is Eckermann’s reaction upon learning she was named Woman of the Year.

 

Carolyn Matejowsky, 2019’s Woman of the Year, talked about Eckermann’s leadership qualities and her “undying commitment to go the extra mile.”  She said Eckermann’s efforts with the city in organizing events for the public and preserving downtown have “offered a steady increase in consumer traffic, benefitted local businesses, and beefed up our economy.”

Also announced today were the winners of the Small Business of the Year and the Blue Blazer of the Year.

Winner of Small Business of the Year with 1-25 employees was Must Be Heaven, while Bank of Brenham was the Small Business of the Year with 26-100 employees.

Carl Prihoda received the Blue Blazer of the Year Award.