Tom and Karen Alderson were honored with the second annual Distinguished Centralia Alumni Award at halftime of the Tigers’ game versus Shelton on Thursday, Jan. 30.
The award is given through a partnership with the Centralia Rotary Club and the Centralia School District. It recognizes alumni who have made outstanding contributions to their community and exemplify the values of Centralia High School.
“Tom Alderson, a graduate of the class of 1975, and Karen Alderson, a graduate of the class of 1976, are well-known in the Centralia community as the owners of Alderson’s Awards West Printwares,” the district said in a news release last year. “Through their commitment to excellence and customer service, they have built a thriving business that has become a cornerstone of Lewis County and beyond.”
Tom credits the company’s success to their ability to adapt to changing customer needs and their unwavering focus on putting customers first, according to the release. This dedication has earned them widespread recognition, including being named the 2019 Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year.
Beyond their professional achievements, Tom and Karen have made an impact on the community through sponsorships of local sports teams and countless donations.
Tom is actively involved in shaping the future of Centralia through his work on the Sports Commission Development Team and his service on the Centralia Athletics, Activities and Facilities Board.