The Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce has named Craig Howard, Contributing Editor of the Spokane Valley Current & Liberty Lake Splash, the 2022 Harry E. Nelson Citizen of the Year.

Each year, past recipients of the award gather to research and select the next Citizen of the Year. Nominees’ achievements must demonstrate one or more of the following:

• Improve the free and competitive enterprise system of business by creating a greater appreciation of the value of the commitment of oneself to the business interests of the Greater Spokane Valley.
• Enhance business and community growth and development by promoting civic, social, and cultural programs designed to improve the functional and aesthetic values of the community.
• Design economic programs that strengthen and expand the income potential of the commerce arena.

“I’m very honored and humbled to win,” Craig said. “I don’t see this as an individual award; it’s about the Valley. I’ve always felt like I’m a lens that presents the story and the history of the Valley, and that’s what this award is about.”

Craig was awarded the title “Community Storyteller” by the selection committee of previous Citizens of the Year award recipients. Craig has been covering the Greater Spokane Valley for over 20 years as a reporter. He is currently the Development Manager for Family Promise of Spokane, which provides support and resources to families experiencing homelessness.

“Craig has a passion and commitment to our Spokane Valley community to match that of Harry Nelson,” Steve Peterson, former Mayor of Liberty Lake and Harry E. Nelson awardee, said. “His energy for telling the stories of this growing community enhanced our lives and especially our business life.”

Dave and Susan Thompson, last year’s recipients, presented the award to Craig at the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Awards on March 28.

“Craig told us his love for storytelling came from his father,” Susan said. “The stories always wove in elements of morals and the importance of helping people, instilling these values into Craig at a young age, which clearly has lasted a lifetime.”

Craig is an eagle scout, a proud father of three kids, Eliot, Kate, and Willa, and a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.