A little more than a year ago, Blank Slate Media honored a group of top business leaders who succeeded during a time in which 450,000 Americans had died of COVID-19.

We had hoped then that the worse was now behind us. But we were wrong. The pandemic continued to exact its toll through 2021.

All of which gives us even more reason to celebrate the 48 people we are honoring this year.

These business leaders are forward-thinking individuals who were able to successfully pivot and adapt to this new world to continue to serve their customers and clients.

Each of them has worked their way up the corporate ladder and defined their own management style pushing the boundaries.

Some continued to educate our children and feed the hungry among us; others were personally responsible for caring for the sick and preventing the spread of the virus while maintaining the highest standards for treatment.

They have helped fully reopen businesses by changing how their companies operated, allowing Nassau County’s economy to move forward.

They have advocated for government to address the county’s high cost of living and regulations that hamper economic growth.

Throughout the pandemic, these highly-motivated individuals continued to volunteer their time and skills to other organizations and share ideas amongst each other.

But challenges remain.

COVID-19 is expected to be with us in 2022 in various levels of severity.

Supply chain interruptions are expected to continue to impact most businesses as will inflation.

Widespread labor shortages and the sharp rise in cyber and ransomware attacks on government and businesses offer additional challenges.

The 48 people we are honoring offer examples of how Nassau County can succeed during a difficult time.

We had asked them how they see their businesses evolving due to the changing times and what advice they would give to others.

You will find their responses thoughtful and inspirational.

Congratulations to all of the honorees, who are well-deserving of this recognition.