Spirit of Erie Week: Celebrating the People, Progress, and Promise of Our Region
Posted on Sep. 8, 2026 / ERCGP News and Announcements, Events / Subscribe 0
By Brandon Mendoza, President & CEO, Erie Regional Chamber & Growth Partnership
There are few opportunities each year that bring our community together in a way that truly captures the pride, resilience, and promise of Erie. Spirit of Erie Week is one of those special occasions.
More than a series of events, Spirit of Erie Week is a celebration of the people, businesses, organizations, and leaders who make our region an exceptional place to live, work, invest, and grow. It is a time to reflect on how far we've come, recognize those who have helped shape our success, and reaffirm our commitment to building an even stronger future for Erie County.
This year's Spirit of Erie celebration comes at an exciting time for our region. We continue to see momentum across key sectors of our economy, increased collaboration among public and private partners, and a growing sense of confidence in Erie’s future. Our business community, workforce, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and local governments are working together in ways that demonstrate what is possible when a community rallies around a shared vision.
The highlight of the week will be the Spirit of Erie Awards Celebration, where we anticipate welcoming more than 700 business, community, and civic leaders from across the region. This remarkable turnout reflects not only the strength of our Chamber network, but also the deep pride that exists throughout Erie County.
We are honored to welcome the Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania, Austin Davis, as our keynote speaker. The Lieutenant Governor’s participation underscores the importance of Erie as a key contributor to Pennsylvania’s economic growth and future prosperity. His perspective on the opportunities facing our Commonwealth will provide valuable insight as we continue working to attract investment, support employers, and strengthen our workforce.
Perhaps most significantly, this year's event will recognize a leader whose impact extends far beyond Erie while remaining firmly rooted in our community's values and spirit.
We are proud to honor Tom Ridge, the 43rd Governor of Pennsylvania and the first United States Secretary of Homeland Security, with our premier recognition of the evening.
Governor Ridge's life and career represent the very best of public service, leadership, and dedication to country. From his military service and distinguished legal career to his leadership as Governor and his historic role strengthening our nation's security following the events of September 11, he has demonstrated unwavering commitment to serving others.
Yet for all of his national accomplishments, Tom Ridge has never forgotten where he came from. Erie has always been a part of his story, and his story has become an enduring source of pride for our community. His leadership, integrity, and example continue to inspire generations of Pennsylvanians and Americans alike.
As we gather to celebrate Governor Ridge, we will also celebrate the countless individuals throughout our region who embody the same spirit of service and commitment. The entrepreneurs creating jobs. The educators preparing tomorrow's workforce. The healthcare professionals caring for our families. The manufacturers driving innovation. The nonprofit leaders addressing community challenges. The volunteers who quietly make a difference every day.
That is the true spirit of Erie.
It is a spirit defined by resilience in the face of challenges, optimism about the future, and a belief that our best days are still ahead. It is reflected in the partnerships we build, the opportunities we create, and the way we come together to support one another during both triumphs and adversity.
As President & CEO of the Erie Regional Chamber & Growth Partnership, I am continually inspired by the people and organizations that make this region extraordinary. Spirit of Erie Week provides us with an opportunity to pause, celebrate those achievements, and recognize the leaders who have helped pave the way for future success.
0 Comments