Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce Names Bill Lehnes their 2025 Distinguished Citizen of the Year

The Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce proudly announces Bill Lehnes as the 2025 Distinguished Citizen of the Year. Lehnes will be formally honored during their 122nd Annual Meeting on February 3, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, at the Rocky Mount Event Center.

This prestigious award recognizes an individual whose leadership, service, and commitment have made a lasting impact on the Rocky Mount community. Bill Lehnes exemplifies these qualities through decades of professional excellence and civic involvement.

A graduate of the University of South Carolina in Spartanburg with a business degree, Lehnes brought his entrepreneurial spirit to Rocky Mount 28 years ago when he opened the local Chick fil A franchise. Born in New Jersey and raised in Greenville, South Carolina, he chose Rocky Mount as his home and has since become deeply invested in the community’s growth and wellbeing.

Lehnes is widely known for his extensive volunteer service. His involvement includes the Tar River Civic Club, past chair for 2013 for the Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce, the American Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, and the Boys and Girls Club. His leadership consistently reflects a commitment to service, collaboration, and positive community impact.

"For the last seven years since I joined the hospital, I’ve had the distinct privilege of working with Bill Lehnes. He has been a dedicated board member, a visionary chairman of the board, and a devoted servant leader who is committed to ensuring this community receives nothing less than excellence in healthcare. He is most deserving of this honor."
— Dr. Lee Isley, UNC Health Nash

“Bill Lehnes is the kind of leader who makes you believe in what’s possible. His compassion, his consistency, and his unwavering commitment to people reflect the very best of who we can be. Whether through his business or his personal giving, Bill lifts others, strengthens our community, and inspires all of us to serve with the biggest heart.”

— Ron Green, Boy & Girls Club of the Tar River Region

Tickets for the 122^nd Annual Meeting may be purchased online at business.rockymountchamber.org/ap/Events/Register/AnFm1A7FVCdCN. Ticket pricing is $85 for Chamber Members and $105 for Non-Chamber Members.

The Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce looks forward to celebrating Bill Lehnes alongside business and community leaders at this special evening. For more information, please contact the Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce at (252) 446-0323.