Citizen of Year David Stevens: 'a leader, with sense of humor and great work ethic'

Citizen of the Year David Stevens (HeartBeep Marketing NH photos)

SOMERSWORTH - The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce presented this year's Citizen, Business, Educator and Nonprofit of the Year awards Wednesday night at The Oaks in Somersworth. This year's Citizen of the Year is David Stevens.

Citizen of the Year

Stevens is a longtime resident of Rochester, who for many years has contributed much to his community, as well as service to his country.

He is a graduate of Spaulding High School and holds master's degrees in public administration, administration organization and management, bachelor's degrees in human resources administration and public administration, and an associate's degree in criminal justice and a certificate of real estate appraisal.

For more than a decade spanning from the 1980s into the 1990s, Stevens served as a part-time police officer for the Rochester Police Department and Wakefield Police Department, then served his country in the Army National Guard, retiring as a Sergeant Major, where he specialized in anti-terrorism as a military police officer. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Award, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Operation Enduring Freedom. While deployed to Afghanistan, David worked with Afghan soldiers on training missions and was in charge of overseeing the building of schools and a playground, which allowed children in Afghanistan to attend school.

Following his military career, he pursued real estate sales and today continues to provide excellent service to his clients. Colleague Bill Cormier, who has known David for many years, says David has "always exemplified the highest ethical principles, a trait that I believe has always been fundamental to his core philosophies."

Stevens has been involved with several local fraternal organizations, including American Legion Post 7, Knights of Columbus, Spaulding High School Band Boosters, and Thank a Rochester Police Officer. His community involvements include the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Rochester City Council, Rochester Police Commission, Rochester Opera House Board of Directors, P.T.A. Treasurer, Rochester Veterans Council, youth soccer coach, Spaulding High School Alumni President, Lilac Family Fun Festival committee, Rochester Zoning Board of Adjustment, Rochester Personnel Advisory Board, and Strafford County Board of Realtors Education Chairperson.

Lisa Stanley has known David for more than 20 years and got to know him best when they served on the Police Commission together. She says, "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 with whatever is needed."

Rochester City Clerk Kelly Walters has worked with Stevens for almost 20 years and says "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 award recipient, Mary Henderson, was at the event to present the award.

Business of the Year

This award recognizes a Chamber member who has demonstrated leadership and involvement for the betterment of the business community and the greater Rochester area. This year's award went to Daystar, Inc.

Daystar, celebrating 25 years in business this year, is a family-owned IT services provider for small to mid-sized organizations throughout New England. Their commitment to their values, dedication to independence, expertise in service, and community involvement has allowed them to grow, thrive, and earn well-deserved recognition and awards along the way.

Business of the Year Daystar principals

Daystar offers a full range of IT services, helping businesses effectively utilize computer and network technology. Recognized as a 2024 Inc. Best Workplace, Daystar fosters a positive and inclusive work environment. Employees appreciate the team-oriented culture, flexible hybrid work options, and opportunities for professional growth.

Daystar has received an impressive list of distinctions and awards through the years, including Business NH Magazine's Top Family-Owned Businesses, MSP500 Pioneer 250 by CRN Magazine five years running, and MSP Mentor 501 for the sixth consecutive year.

Community involvement is at the core of Daystar's culture. They empower local nonprofits by providing discounted IT services, expert guidance, and hands-on support-helping organizations with limited resources leverage technology for greater impact. Beyond their services, they give back through annual donations, sponsorships, and active volunteerism, supporting everything from youth programs to health initiatives. Their team donates time, serves on nonprofit boards, and partners with local Chambers of Commerce to strengthen the communities they serve.

Jennifer Ufkin, CEO of Cornerstone VNA says, "As a longtime partner, Daystar has exemplified the values of innovation, dedication, and exceptional service, making a significant impact on both our organization and the wider Rochester community." Robert Clarke, Cornerstone VNA's IT Manager adds, "They are not just another tech company - they take the time to understand our unique needs and tailor solutions that ensure our business thrives."

Andy LaBranche, President/CEO of Spaulding Composites, Inc. says, "Beyond their technical expertise, Daystar has proven to be a company built on integrity, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to their clients' success.

On hand to present the award to Daystar, Inc., were Molly Meulenbroek, Jeff Meulenbroek and David Meulenbroek of Studley Flower Gardens, last year's recipient.

Nonprofit of the Year

The Nonprofit of the Year award went to the New Hampshire Farm Museum.

The New Hampshire Farm Museum, located in Milton, was founded in 1969 by a group of farmers and an agricultural extension agent who recognized the rapid loss of agricultural tools and knowledge. Initially, the museum operated out of various barns and storefronts across Rockingham and Strafford Counties, amassing a diverse collection of farm implements and artifacts. In 1979, the museum secured the 28-acre Jones Farm

Nonprofit of the Year New England Farm Museum leadership

property, and in 1994, expanded by acquiring the adjacent Plummer Homestead, totaling 50 acres. Today, the museum serves as a living history center, offering visitors a glimpse into New Hampshire's agricultural past through its preserved buildings, working farm, and extensive collections.

The museum provides a range of educational programs aimed at engaging the community and preserving rural heritage. School and youth programs, such as "The Ox-Cart Man: Farms & Families at Work," allow students to experience 18th-century farm life through hands-on activities like butter-making, animal care, and exploring historical artifacts. Additionally, the "Stories on the Farm" program offers weekly storytelling sessions for families, featuring tales rooted in New Hampshire's history.

Deeply committed to community engagement, the New Hampshire Farm Museum hosts local festivals, craft fairs, and farm-to-table events that celebrate regional culture and bring people together. It provides volunteer opportunities for youth and adults, including student internships and docent roles that foster intergenerational learning. The museum also partners with local schools, veterans' groups, and civic organizations to provide tailored tours and service projects. By opening its historic grounds for events and offering accessible programming, the museum serves as a hub for education, recreation, and community pride.

Caroline Plummer Butler, of the Plummer Farm family, says, "The programs are run by dedicated, well-trained volunteers. If you have never visited the New Hampshire Farm Museum, I strongly encourage you to do so. It is a step back in time that appeals to all ages. In addition to the many school groups that come to the farm, there are weekend programs and events that have a wide following of visitors from New Hampshire and from out of state. It is clearly a tourist destination."

In recognition of its efforts to preserve and promote New Hampshire's agricultural heritage, the museum received a $7,500 grant from The 1772 Foundation in partnership with the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance in 2022. This grant supported essential restoration work on the Jones Farm, including exterior painting, window restoration, and foundation repair, ensuring the continued accessibility and preservation of this historic site. In 2024, 2023, and 2022 the museum received a Governor's Citation for outstanding contributions in keeping New Hampshire History alive, and in 2025, Program Director Janet Hotchkiss was presented with Who's Who of American Women.
These are just a few of many awards and recognitions the New Hampshire Farm Museum has earned.

Annie, Jock, and Brett McKenzie of McKenzie's Farm in Milton say, "Our farm has been involved with the New Hampshire Farm Museum for 35 years and have seen it become an integral part of the community. Its membership has increased 25% from 2021, showing that more people realize what a great asset it is."

Susann Foster Brown says, "New Hampshire Farm Museum is a unique treasure. Strafford County, including Rochester, Milton and surrounding communities all benefit from the museum's inclusion in 1979 on the National Register of Historic Places."

Last year's Non-Profit of the Year recipients, Amy Regan and Matt Wyatt of Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, presented this year's award.

Educator of the Year

The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce recently presented its 2^nd annual Educator of the Year award. This award was conceived to recognize outstanding educators who embody the highest standards of teaching excellence and make a lasting impact on the lives of their students. This year's award went to Davita Fortier, a first-grade teacher at McClelland Elementary School.

Educator of the Year Davita Fortier

Fortier has been an educator for more than 35 years, described by colleagues as an unwavering pillar of the McClelland community, consistently going above and beyond to support students, staff, and families.

She is the driving force behind many of the activities at McClelland, including Fallfest, Craft Night, STEM Night, Reading Across America, the Talent Show, the Walk-A-Thon, and much more. She is also an active member of the PTA. Her commitment to continuous learning includes training in Orton-Gillingham and OGAP math concepts, which ensure she meets the diverse learning needs of her students.

In addition to all her contributions, colleagues say she still finds time to support the Student Council, and she actively engages in all of the school-based initiatives.

McClelland Elementary School Principal Maegan Jerr says, "Beyond her work in the classroom, Davita is a leader on our team, always advocating for what is right for the students," and she adds, "McClelland is truly fortunate to have Davita as an educator, mentor and role model. She is the embodiment of dedication and an inspiration to us all."

Paraprofessional and longtime friend of Fortier's, Dea Cleveland, says that Davita inspired her to get into education and she has worked with her for over 20 years. She says she, "makes the time to tutor students of all grade levels, helping them reach and exceed their goals. Many of her former students stop by the classroom to say hello and share their successes. She has made lifelong connections with her students and families."

Presenting the Educator of the Year award to Fortier was Ron Goodwin, Director of Music and Performing Arts at Spaulding High School.