Our beloved Chairman, Mike Hollern, received the inaugural Soul of Central Oregon Award from Oregon Media on July 17. The honor was awarded to him at Oregon Media headquarters in Bend. Launched to commemorate 9 years of Bend Magazine and 15 years of Oregon Media, the award recognizes the people who embody the heart and soul of the community by giving selflessly to make Central Oregon a better place.
This was not the first time Oregon Media honored Mike – he was featured in Bend Magazine in 2023 in an article entitled, “Mike Hollern’s Influence is Everywhere in Bend, and He’s Not Done Yet.”
Oregon Media said that Mike was chosen for his leadership at Brooks Resources Corporation, and his vision and positive influence in the areas of the arts, education and economic development. He and his wife Sue Hollern have served on multiple boards in the community, including Central Oregon Community College, Bend Chamber of Commerce, High Desert Museum and Central Oregon Builders’ Association, among others.
Mike Hollern (left) with Heather Huston Johnson and Ross Johnson of Oregon Media
“Your vision for sustainable development, your unwavering support for the arts and your dedication to education are just a few of the reasons why you are admired,” said Heather Huston Johnson, president and CEO of Oregon Media. “But perhaps your greatest legacy is the way you inspire others to get involved, give back and make a difference. You are a true leader and a role model for us all,” she said.
Those of us on the team at Brooks Resources could not agree more – Mike has been a stellar leader for decades. He has inspired and instigated positive change, not just in our company, but in the Bend community and beyond. We are ever grateful to Mike, and applaud him as he accepts this award.
