In memory of Leon S. Peters, this award was created in 1984 and continues to be sponsored annually by the Fresno Chamber of Commerce. This award was established to preserve the memory and legacy of Leon S. Peters and to honor Central Valley leaders who, over a period of time, clearly demonstrated in his or her personal and business life the values, ethics and character exemplified by Mr. Peters.
Sally Caglia
2023Tom Richards
2022Vinci Ricchiuti
2021Karen Musson
2020Matty Matoian
2019Jim Pardini
2018William Smittcamp
2017Stan Oken
2016Ray Steele Jr.
2015Richard “Dick” Caglia
2014John E. Horstmann
2013Dr. Peter Mehas
2012Dr. Pete Peters
2011Joe Williams
2010Lou Herwaldt
2009Bill Jones
2008Sidney Cox
2007Bud Richter
2006O. James Woodward III
2005Samuel Reeves
2004Octavia Diener
2003Robert Oliver
2002Frederick Ruiz
2001Anne Speake
2000Larry A. Shehadey
1999Claude Laval III
1998Robert Carter
1997Richard Johanson
1996James Hallowell
1995Lou Gentile
1994Earl Smittcamp
1993Helen Smades
1992William Lyles
1991Martin Nelsen
1990Joe Levy
1989Frank Caglia
1988B. Franklin Knapp
1987James B. Mayer
1986Robert Duncan
1985Lewis B. Eaton
1984Leon S. Peters was respected as a businessman, civic leader and philanthropist who lived and worked according to the highest ethical standards. He cherished his community and considered its well-being his personal responsibility. As the son of Armenian immigrants, he grew up on the family farm. After the loss of his parents, he became a salesman for Valley Foundry and went on to purchase the company. Valley Foundry and Machine Works manufactured a wine grape crusher and seamless stainless steel tanks that revolutionized wine production. The company became a world recognized supplier of agricultural equipment.
Peters gave back to his community in many ways, serving in leadership capacities and donating millions of dollars to a variety of causes through the Leon S. Peters Foundation, founded and funded by Leon and his wife Alice. He died in 1983, leaving a legacy of business success, public service, private philanthropy and an ethical leadership model that few can emulate.
You are encouraged to nominate a living person whom you believe conducts his or her personal and business/professional life in the manner consistent with the life of Leon S. Peters. You are encouraged to nominate a person who is:
A BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS
Leon S. Peters was an outstanding businessman and business leader. He was highly respected by his industry and community peers for his personal and business integrity and wisdom.
A SERVANT LEADER
Leon S. Peters was a servant leader who gave significant amounts of his time, talent, and treasure in a myriad of ways, to the betterment of the community.
A MORAL AND ETHICAL PERSON
Leon S. Peters was a moral and ethical person whose value system, ethics and moral compass did not vary, regardless of circumstances.
A CARING PERSON
Leon S. Peters was a caring person whose positive and beneficial activities showed a concern and a commitment to his community and his fellow man.
A MENTOR
Leon S. Peters was a mentor who provided advice and counsel with humility, wisdom, skill and grace.