Waxahachie, TX (April 9, 2026) – At the 98th Annual Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce Excellence Awards, Nelson University was awarded the Large Business of the Year, alongside Jo Cardenas, Nelson University’s Donor Relations and Data Records Coordinator, who was awarded Young Professional of the Year.

Nelson University was nominated for the award recognizing a business that makes a meaningful difference in the community in the 100-plus-employee category.

Throughout the years, Nelson employees have played active leadership roles within the Chamber, including Rick Bowles on the board of directors, Ava Cardenas on the Young Professionals Board, and Jo Cardenas on the Board of Advisors and the Young Professionals Board, where she served as chair.

“Nelson University is so proud to call Waxahachie home,” President Kermit Bridges said. “This is a fabulous community, and we are humbled to be recognized by the Chamber as the recipient of this year’s Large Business Award.”

Jo Cardenas was nominated for Young Professional of the Year in recognition of her outstanding service within the Chamber. She is known for leading with integrity and consistently going above and beyond to make a meaningful impact. Cardenas has been instrumental in contributing to business growth, strengthening Chamber initiatives, and supporting Nelson’s local economic development.

“I am incredibly honored to be named the recipient of the Young Professionals Award,” Cardenas said. “I love the Waxahachie community and having the opportunity to serve on staff with Nelson, making a difference in Ellis County and beyond, is such a blessing.”

According to the Economic Impact of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas report, Nelson University contributes an impressive $141 million annually to the local economy, reflecting its ongoing investment in students, employees, and the broader Ellis County community. These recognitions from the Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce highlight the university’s continued commitment to service in the city it calls home.

About Nelson University

Nelson University is a private Christian university located just 30 minutes south of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas. Founded in 1927, the university offers more than 70 undergraduate degrees, both on campus and online. Committed to integrating faith and learning, Nelson prepares students to fulfill their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered community. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or call 1-888-937-7248