DMA announced the recipients of its two highest honors, the Pioneer Award and the President’s Award, at its 2025 Annual Meeting held on December 9, 2025.
Pioneer Award: Em’z Blendz Soap Co. — Emily & Andy Whitlock
The Pioneer Award recognizes a downtown business or individual that has made the most significant contribution to the physical improvement and long-term vitality of Downtown Medford. This year’s recipients, Emily and Andy Whitlock of Em’z Blendz Soap Co., exemplify this spirit through their expansion into the historic Hoover-Cooper Building in the space long occupied by Lawrence’s Jewelers, By relocating their production and retail operations to Main Street, they revitalized a landmark space and strengthened the connection between local craft and place.
“Emily and Andy’s investment shows what it means to believe in downtown’s future,” said Board President EJ McManus “They didn’t just grow their business—they brought new energy to a historic building and demonstrated how progress and preservation can thrive together.”
President’s Award: Brooks Jenkins
The President’s Award is presented by the outgoing President to an individual, business, or organization that has provided exceptional service during the award year. This year’s recipient, Brooks Jenkins, was recognized for his steady leadership, commitment to community, and willingness to support DMA’s work in meaningful and consistent ways.
“Brooks has been a quiet force behind so much of our progress this year,” said Board President EJ McManus. “His partnership, his support, and his generosity of time and insight reflect the very best of what this award is meant to honor.”
“Brooks, with you being there for our community and our executive director, Annie, this is also symbolic of something bigger. It is a reminder that every success is a part of others who are present to support, to encourage, and to show up without expecting recognition. That to me is the spirit of partnership that makes DMA what it is – The family, the friends, the spouses and partners who keep us showing up and doing what we do for this downtown. This award is a shared reflection of all of you,” added EJ.