Plainview Honors Community Leaders as Man and Woman of the Year

Local chamber recognizes Doug McDonough and Shayla Whalen for their service and impact.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 4:11am

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The Plainview Chamber of Commerce has announced its 2025 Man of the Year and Woman of the Year award recipients. Doug McDonough and Shayla Whalen were recognized at the chamber's annual banquet for their outstanding contributions to the local community.

Why it matters

The Man and Woman of the Year awards are among the highest honors given by the Plainview Chamber, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, volunteerism, and a commitment to improving the quality of life in the city. The awards highlight the important role that engaged citizens play in shaping the character and vitality of a community.

The details

McDonough, a longtime journalist and editor for the Plainview Herald, was recognized for his decades of service reporting on local news and issues. Whalen, the executive director of the Plainview Area Habitat for Humanity, was honored for her work expanding affordable housing opportunities and leading community service projects.

  • The Plainview Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet on March 27, 2026.
  • McDonough and Whalen were named the 2025 Man and Woman of the Year at the event.

The players

Doug McDonough

A longtime journalist and editor for the Plainview Herald newspaper, recognized for his decades of service reporting on local news and issues.

Shayla Whalen

The executive director of the Plainview Area Habitat for Humanity, honored for her work expanding affordable housing opportunities and leading community service projects.

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What they’re saying

“Doug and Shayla are shining examples of the kind of community-minded leaders that make Plainview such a special place to live. Their tireless efforts have touched the lives of so many, and we're grateful for their service.”

— Jill Harrell, Plainview Chamber of Commerce President

The takeaway

The Plainview Chamber of Commerce's annual Man and Woman of the Year awards celebrate the unsung heroes who devote their time and talents to strengthening their local community. McDonough and Whalen's recognition underscores the power of engaged citizens to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their neighbors.