The second Greater Sacramento Annual Dinner was held last week at the Hyatt Regency downtown. The annual dinner organized by The Greater Sacramento Economic Council (GSEC) celebrates the people who are driving the growth of Greater Sacramento’s economy. Over 600 people attended this year’s event, sponsored by  presenting sponsor Moneta Ventures.

Program

The program for the evening, emceed by Kings’ announcer Scott Moak,  included introductory remarks from Moneta Ventures Managing Partner, Lokesh Sikaria, followed by remarks from Dave Lucchetti, President and CEO of Pacific Coast Building Products.

The entertainment for the evening featured iLuminate, a cutting-edge dance group featuring  a high-energy dance style performed in the dark with, lighted, glow-in-the-dark technology that is synchronized to the music and their moves.

As the iLuminate dancers neared the finish their number, a new light-festooned dancer appeared on stage, seemingly to help to finish the sequence. As the house lights came up it was revealed that this new member of the troop was none other than GSEC CEO, Barry Broome.

 

If you haven’t had the chance to hear Barry present you’re missing out. Part comedy routine, part review of accomplishments, and part inspiration of what we as a region can become, Barry’s remarks left the audience laughing, inspired, and motivated.

Greater Sacramento Awards Ceremony

After a break in the program for the attendees to enjoy dinner, the program resumed with the awards ceremony.

Distinguished Service
Recognizing an individual whose contributions to the greater Sacramento area extend far beyond the call of duty. The Distinguished Service award was given to Dale & Katy Carlsen.

Outstanding Regional Contribution
Recognizing a project that has had a transformative, positive impact on its community. The Outstanding Regional Contribution award was given to an organization that’s near and dear to us – StartupSac!

We’re absolutely thrilled to be recognized for the work we do. Read our acceptance speech.

Paving the Way
Recognizing a community that has achieved exceptional economic development results, the Paving the Way award was presented to the County of El Dorado.

Champion of the Year
Recognizing a Greater Sacramento Champion who has had a remarkable impact on our competitive position. Sacramento State President Nelsen awarded the Champion of the Year Award to Miles Treaster.

Following all of the awards, the audience was once again treated to another performance from the iLuminate dancers and the event concluded with closing remarks from GSEC Vice Chairman Kyriakos Tsakopoulos.

Thanks and congratulations to GSEC for organizing such a great event as well as for the critical part they play in transforming our region into an innovation hub. Also, congratulations to all of the award winners!