In recognition of his selfless dedication to the community, Thomas Sullivan has been named the Chamber of Commerce's 1999 Citizen of the Year — the organization's most prestigious community service award.

Sullivan, a retiree who spent 34 years in top management positions, was presented the award before a sell-out crowd at the Chamber's 95th Annual Dinner on January 15 at the Embassy Suites Hotel.

A charter member of the Chamber's Diversity Task Force, Sullivan is one of the original incorporators of the Economic Vitality Corporation of SLO County and serves on the SLO County Economic Advisory Committee.

Sullivan has lived in San Luis Obispo for the last ten years and, during that time, has gained a reputation as a citizen who works diligently to improve the quality of life in San Luis Obispo and the economic base of its citizens.

"Tom's energy and generosity serve as an example to all who participate with him," said the person who nominated him. "He has worked hard to bring people together to recognize the benefit of collaboration to achieve mutual gain."

Sullivan has been a guiding light in numerous community organizations including the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence, The United Way, SLO County Foundation for Community Design, The Literacy Council, the Salvation Army, the Latino Outreach Council, the American Red Cross, the Cultural Diversity Committee at Cuesta College and the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival.

"He is a visionary who knows what it takes to make things happen. An amazing man who knows what it takes to make things happen. An amazing man who is energetic and positive. He is a special person whom you can count on," said Kathy Smith on his work with The Literacy Council. In addition to being committed to his community, Sullivan is devoted to his family as well. He and his wife Anne have been married for 36 years and have raised two daughters who work in the publishing and film industries.