From left: Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce Chairman Mike Nurre, former U.S. Rep. Pete Sessions and Chairman’s Award recipient Jesse Simmons. (Photos by Maggie Murphree.)
The Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce awarded its annual community service award to longtime neighbor and volunteer Jesse Simmons.
Simmons, owner of Jesse’s A/C and Appliance Service, received the Chairman’s Award on Jan. 15 at the Lakewood Country Club. Former U.S. Rep. Pete Sessions attended and presented Simmons with a presidential plate.
“It was very humbling,” Simmons said. “I’m not the one who likes to stand in front of the microphone. I’m the guy who likes to be behind the scenes.”
Simmons has served on the chamber board for more than 10 years and helps organize four networking groups for small businesses in East Dallas.
“He is hard working, positive, energetic and exemplifies what every chamber board member should strive to be like,” the chamber said in a news release.
Simmons is also involved in several community groups, including 100 Men Who Give and the Trinity Foundation.
“I started my business 20 years ago, and I struggled for 10 years until I joined the chamber,” he said. “That took my business from struggling to thriving, and that’s what has allowed me to do what I do. If it wasn’t for the chamber, I wouldn’t have time or money to do the charity work. It’s all about making East Dallas a better place.”
The Chairman’s Award is given annually to an individual for significant contributions to the chamber through professional experience, community engagement and leadership.
