The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2025 Annual Awards during a celebratory evening on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at The Oaks Grandview. Sponsored by leading businesses in the region, these honors recognize individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to the Greater Rochester area.
Citizen of the Year: David Stevens
The Citizen of the Year Award, presented by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, is one of the Chamber’s most prestigious honors. Sponsored by Eastern Propane & Oil, the award is bestowed upon an individual who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the community and has made significant contributions to the vibrancy and strength of the Greater Rochester area.
At the Chamber’s Annual Awards Celebration, held on Wednesday evening, May 21, 2025, at The Oaks Grandview, the Chamber announced the 2025 Citizen of the Year: David Stevens.
David Stevens, a longtime resident of Rochester, has devoted many years to serving his community and his country.
He is a graduate of Spaulding High School and holds master’s degrees in Public Administration and in Administration, Organization, and Management; bachelor’s degrees in Human Resources Administration and Public Administration; an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice; and a certificate in Real Estate Appraisal.
From the 1980s through the 1990s, David served as a part-time police officer for both the Rochester Police Department and the Wakefield Police Department. He later served his country in the U.S. Army National Guard, retiring as a Sergeant Major. As a military police officer, he specialized in anti-terrorism and earned several commendations, including the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, and recognition for his service in Operation Enduring Freedom. While deployed in Afghanistan, David worked alongside Afghan soldiers on training missions and oversaw the construction of schools and a playground, providing local children with access to education.
Following his military career, David pursued a career in real estate and continues to provide outstanding service to his clients. His colleague, Bill Cormier, who has known David for many years, noted, “David has always exemplified the highest ethical principles—a trait I believe is fundamental to his core values.”
David is actively involved in several local fraternal and community organizations, including American Legion Post 7, the Knights of Columbus, the Spaulding High School Band Boosters, and Thank a Rochester Police Officer. His extensive civic engagement includes serving on the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Rochester City Council, the Rochester Police Commission, and the Rochester Opera House Board of Directors. He has also contributed as a P.T.A. Treasurer, a member of the Rochester Veterans Council, a youth soccer coach, President of the Spaulding High School Alumni Association, a member of the Lilac Family Fun Festival Committee, the Rochester Zoning Board of Adjustment, the Rochester Personnel Advisory Board, and as Education Chairperson of the Strafford County Board of Realtors.
Lisa Stanley, who has known David for more than twenty years and worked with him on the Police Commission, shared, “I can’t say enough about his love for and commitment to the City of Rochester and the people he serves. He genuinely cares about people and strives to do what is best for all. He brings energy, enthusiasm, and a willingness to help wherever needed.”
Rochester City Clerk Kelly Walters, who has worked with David for nearly two decades, added, “He has always been a man of integrity. He has natural leadership skills, a great sense of humor, and a strong work ethic.”
Last year’s Citizen of the Year recipient, Mary Henderson, was in attendance to present the award.
The Chamber is proud to name David Stevens as the 2025 Citizen of the Year and thanks him for his many contributions to his community, his country, and beyond.