On January 14, 2025, the Chamber proudly celebrated contributions to our community at the Annual Installation and Awards Luncheon. Among the event’s highlights was the presentation of the 2024 Community Leadership Award to Sharron Newton, a shining example of selfless service and leadership. Reverend Steve Holzhalb, a past Community Leadership Award recipient from Christwood Retirement Community, had the privilege of presenting this honor.
Sharron Newton’s story is one of unwavering dedication. Since making Slidell her home in 2004, she has devoted nearly two decades to improving the lives of others. With over 50 years of nursing experience, Sharron has been a tireless advocate for our most vulnerable populations. As a nurse liaison for the Hospice Foundation of the South, she established vital nursing protocols to ensure dignity and comfort for patients at their Hospice House.
Her leadership extends far beyond healthcare. As a 20-year volunteer with East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity, Sharron has lead Rosie Women Build teams since 2016, empowering others to help families in need. During crises like hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic, she stepped in without hesitation—coordinating food distribution, staffing shelters, and administering vaccines. Her commitment to service also shines through her roles on the boards of organizations such as the Northshore Community Foundation, Slidell Heritage Festival, Community Christian Concern, and East St. Tammany Rainbow Childcare, where she chairs the board to support quality childcare for underserved families.
Sharron’s compassion knows no borders. She has participated in more than 45 international medical missions, providing life-changing surgical reconstruction for children with cleft lips and palates. Her exceptional efforts earned her Rotary International’s prestigious Service Above Self Award in 2023, a global honor granted to only 130 individuals out of 1.4 million members.
Sharron Newton embodies the very spirit of leadership, service and community impact. Her tireless dedication has left an indelible mark on St. Tammany Parish and beyond.
Join us in celebrating Sharron Newton, the well-deserved recipient of the 2024 Community Leadership Award, and in recognizing the incredible power of service to transform lives and communities.