Duluth Mayor Don Ness was named Twin Cities Business’ first-ever “Person of the Year” on Thursday.
 
“For this award, we considered several individuals and their achievements in 2013 and in recent years,” TCB Editor-in-Chief Dale Kurschner said in a statement. “More than any other nominee, Don Ness stood out for exceptional leadership that has strengthened our state’s economy, business opportunities, and culture.”

Under Ness’ leadership, Duluth has emerged from the Great Recession and a devastating flood in 2012 with prospects brighter than it’s seen in decades. Ness first took office in 2008, ran unopposed in 2011, and was given a 90 percent job-approval rating last year by Duluth citizens.
 
TCB announced the winner at its Person of the Year Event in the Orchestra Hall Atrium on Thursday night. Guests at the event were the first to receive copies of the magazine’s annual Black Book: People and Companies to Know in 2014, which contains a feature story about Ness.
 
The Black Book, which also contains mini-profiles on 100 other people to know in 2014 and listings of more than 900 companies interested in helping businesses succeed, will be available at select newsstands throughout the Twin Cities metro area later this month.
 
This was TCB’s first-ever person of the year but the magazine plans to continue distributing the award annually and is already seeking nominations for next year. Nominees should be individuals who have recently, and are today, demonstrating outstanding leadership that strengthens Minnesota’s economy and culture, and increases business opportunities in the state.
 
To learn more about Don Ness and what he’s done for the city of Duluth, click here.