The Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 20th annual Excellence in Business Awards on April 8 at the Wyndham Newport Atlantic Resort, honoring six local businesses across as many categories before a crowd of more than 120 guests.
Lee Merrill of Centreville Bank and Dr. Missy Varao of Salve Regina University co-emceed the event, which is sponsored by Carey, Richmond & Viking Insurance. More than 50 nominations were reviewed by a judging committee of Chamber board volunteers, with each category narrowed to three finalists before winners were selected.
Southcoast Health took home the Big Business award, recognized for generating more than $2 billion in regional economic impact annually while expanding services and facilities over the past year.
A-1 Roofing & Construction, led by Sean Napolitano, won in the Small Business category after reporting 30% revenue growth in 2025, geographic expansion into Massachusetts, and the launch of a 300-plus unit equipment rental division.
Provence sur Mer claimed the Micro Business award. Owner Karen Pinelli has led the Washington Square event venue to double its revenue in its second full year of operation.
Alexis Harvey of Sugaring NYC-Aquidneck Island was named Emerging Leader for her community involvement, local hiring practices, and engagement with the Chamber.
The James L. Maher Center earned the Nonprofit award after expanding its program offerings by approximately 40% over the past year and opening a new regional hub to improve accessibility for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Ward’s Manufacturing, co-founded by Kelly Ward and her brother Kiffin Ward, won the Woman/Minority Owned category. The company operates in the ocean tech and defense manufacturing space, an industry where women-owned businesses remain rare.
“It was such a pleasure to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Excellence in Business Awards with so many accomplished and inspiring businesses,” said Erin Donovan-Boyle, president and CEO of the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce. “Excellence isn’t just about a moment — it’s a legacy.”
