The ASHRAE Ozarks Chapter is proud to celebrate three of our members who were recognized for outstanding service during the 2025–2026 Society Year at the ASHRAE Region IX Chapters Regional Conference (CRC).
These awards recognize the time, dedication, and leadership that volunteers contribute to strengthening their chapters and advancing ASHRAE throughout the region. We are excited to congratulate Zach Altis, JaLynn Hill, and Chris Ruth on earning regional recognition for their service.
Zach Altis – Chapter Service Award
Congratulations to Zach Altis, recipient of the Chapter Service Award.
The Chapter Service Award recognizes exceptional commitment and service to the local chapter. Strong chapters depend on volunteers who consistently step forward to lead, support programs, mentor others, and help create opportunities for members to engage with ASHRAE.
Zach has been a dedicated leader within the Ozarks Chapter and has continually contributed his time and experience to help move the chapter forward. His service has played an important role in the chapter’s continued success, and we are proud to see that commitment recognized at the regional level.
Congratulations, Zach, and thank you for your continued service to ASHRAE and the Ozarks Chapter!
JaLynn Hill – Shiny Penny Award
Congratulations to JaLynn Hill, recipient of the Region IX Shiny Penny Award, recognizing the top Chapter Treasurer in the Region for the 2025–2026 Society Year.
The Treasurer plays a critical role in the health and sustainability of an ASHRAE chapter. From maintaining accurate financial records and managing budgets to supporting chapter programs and ensuring responsible stewardship of chapter resources, the position requires consistency, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to the organization.
JaLynn exemplifies those qualities and has been a dependable and dedicated leader for the Ozarks Chapter. Her work behind the scenes helps make everything else the chapter accomplishes possible.
Congratulations, JaLynn, on this well-deserved recognition as Region IX’s top Treasurer!
Chris Ruth – Hornblower Award
Congratulations to Chris Ruth, recipient of the Region IX Hornblower Award, recognizing the top Communications Chair in the Region for the 2025–2026 Society Year.
Effective communication is essential to keeping members informed, promoting chapter programs, celebrating accomplishments, and sharing ASHRAE’s mission with the broader community. The Hornblower Award recognizes outstanding work in chapter communications and the effort required to maintain a strong, consistent connection with members and the public.
Through newsletters, social media, website content, event promotion, and other chapter communications, the Communications Chair helps tell the story of ASHRAE and keeps members connected to the many opportunities available through the organization.
Congratulations, Chris, on earning the Region IX Hornblower Award!
Celebrating Our Volunteers
The strength of ASHRAE comes from the people who volunteer their time and talents to serve the organization. Having three Ozarks Chapter members receive individual recognition at the Region IX CRC is something our entire chapter can celebrate.
Please join us in congratulating Zach Altis, JaLynn Hill, and Chris Ruth on their 2025–2026 Region IX awards and thanking them for their continued dedication to the ASHRAE Ozarks Chapter.
