Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce Announces 2026 Wall of Honor Inductees

Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce Announces 2026 Wall of Honor Inductees

The Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce has announced six individuals who will be inducted into the Wall of Honor during the 25th Annual Wall of Honor Community Achievement Award Ceremony.

The 2026 inductees are Rod Reid, Beth Long, Jim Rogers, Gustave Schneider, Leslie Beavers and Keith Ruether.

The Wall of Honor began in 2001 and recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact on the Lebanon community through civic service, leadership, volunteerism or contributions to their field. With this year’s class, the Wall of Honor will include 128 individuals.

This year’s ceremony will be held Thursday, November 5, at the Kenneth E. Cowan Civic Center. The evening will begin with a social hour at 5:30 p.m., giving attendees an opportunity to gather in recognition of this year’s honorees.

2026 Wall of Honor Inductees

Rod Reid

Rod Reid is a lifelong Lebanon resident and successful business leader who helped grow Shepherd Hills Factory Outlets into a nationally recognized destination. His leadership has extended far beyond business, including service as a past President of the Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce, founding President of the Lebanon Tourism Board, and Chairman of the Missouri Transportation Development Council. Most recently, Rod was appointed to the Federal Route 66 Centennial Commission and elected Chairman, helping lead national efforts to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66.

Beth Long

Beth Long devoted her life to public service and leadership. She became the first woman elected Laclede County Clerk and later served 13 years in the Missouri House of Representatives. Throughout her career, she was a strong advocate for veterans, families, and children, while earning a reputation for integrity, compassion, and dedication to the citizens she served.

Jim Rogers

For generations, Jim Rogers has helped introduce people from across the country to one of Missouri’s greatest treasures, Bennett Spring State Park. Through the Jim Rogers School of Fly Fishing and his lifelong commitment to conservation, tourism, and outdoor recreation, he has made a significant impact on countless visitors while helping establish Bennett Spring as a premier destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Gustave Schneider

Gustave Schneider was a visionary architect, builder, farmer, and civic leader who settled in Laclede County in 1901. He played a major role in agriculture, transportation, and community development, helping organize the Laclede County Mutual Insurance Association, leading the Lebanon Produce Exchange, and contributing to important infrastructure projects throughout the county. His legacy continues to be felt more than a century later.

Leslie Beavers

Originally from Lebanon, Leslie Beavers built an extraordinary career in military, government, and corporate leadership. A retired U.S. Air Force Brigadier General, she rose to serve in some of the nation’s highest intelligence and technology positions, including Acting Chief Information Officer for the Department of Defense. Her career demonstrates how someone raised in Lebanon can go on to make an impact on a national and global scale.

Keith Ruether

Keith Ruether dedicated nearly three decades to music education, inspiring generations of students in Steelville, Fulton, and Lebanon. During his time at Lebanon High School, the band program achieved statewide recognition, and he became one of only three Missouri directors to have bands from three different schools selected to perform at the Missouri Music Educators Association Convention. His influence continues through the many students and educators whose lives he helped shape.

Tickets Available Now

Tickets for the 25th Annual Wall of Honor Community Achievement Award Ceremony are limited and are now on sale for $50 at the Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce office, located inside the Cowan Civic Center.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce at 417-588-3256 or email chamber@lebanonmissouri.com.