The Columbia Chamber has named the Ambassador of the Year > Columbia Business Report

David Pankau received the Ambassador of the Year Award from the Columbia Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber’s 119th Annual Gala will be held on October 6, according to a news release.

Sponsored by Colonial Life, the award is presented to a community member who has demonstrated outstanding business ethics and has made a positive impact in promoting and maintaining the Midlands environment.

“David Pankau is a leader in the business community whose tireless efforts have helped grow and shape Columbia as we know it,” said Carl Blackstone, president and CEO of the Columbia Chamber.

Pankaw has been with Blucross BlueShield for 30 years, serving as president and CEO from 2010 until his July 1 retirement.

He received his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University and his master’s degree in public health from the University of South Carolina. Pankaw has served on the Board of Directors of the Midlands Business Leadership Group, the Palmetto Business Forum, and the National Institute of Healthcare Administration. He has served on the Blucross BlueShield Board of Directors since 2010.

Pankau has worked with many regional organizations including Junior Success, Transitional Homeless Center, St. Lawrence Place, Healthy Students and United Way of the Midlands.

“It is an honor and privilege to recognize David with this year’s award,” said Tim Arnold, president of Colonial Life. “David is an outstanding leader, and many community organizations have benefited from his desire to make a lasting difference.”