2021 Dexter Chamber Citizen of the Year - Scott Kruse

Dexter, MO - The Dexter Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet on Friday, March 4, 2022 at The Lair Event Center.  The meal was catered by Dhafer's Mediterranean Steakhouse. Both Representative Herman Morse and Senator Jason Bean were on hand to present resolutions to the award recipients.

Tara Barker presented the 2021 Dexter Chamber Citizen of the Year Award to Scott kruse.

"Scott has done some remarkable things for our community throughout his time here.  In 2000, along with his brother Ben and a small group of friends, he created the 18 Fore Life Charity.  Ben Kruse, a part of the heart behind 18 Fore Life, departed this world too quickly, but Scott was determined to carry on his legacy and keep their dream alive.  his driving force and energy has been funneled into countless volunteers and events that have allowed the charity to send out over 3 million dollars in Love Offerings as of 2021."

"He continues to make not just Dexter a better place, but the world as well.  He is actively raising money for St. Jude Children's Hospital.  He organized 10 Pins for Ben, a local bowling tournament benefiting St. Jude.  he participates annually in the St. Jude Marathon each December in memphis, and even recruits runners for the 18 Ore Life Marathon Team.  St. Jude has even selected Scott to run and raise money for them at the Boston Marathon, which a a huge honor."

"Not only has he made a difference in the fight against cancer, but he makes a difference every single day as the principal of T.S. Hill Middle School.  I promise you he is always encouraging someone or helping to make someone's school day a little bit brighter.  I think all our middle school years would have been better with him as principal.  he is respected by not only students, but parents, teachers, staff, and the community.

"Dexter is a better place because of his presence.  We are all better people for knowing him."

Congratulations to Scott Kruse, 2021 Dexter Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year!

Pictured from left is Dexter Chamber Executive Director Alisha Trammell, Representative Herman Morse, Kruse, senator Jason Bean and Barker.