True leaders lead not for accolades or awards. They do not lead for self-gratification or attention.

They lead because the need to step up and do something is in their blood.

Each of those honored Tuesday night at the Concordia Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards dinner and celebration is an example of just those kinds of people — community leaders.

Concordians of the year Patrick Biglane and Heather Malone typify modern parish leaders. Each understands and appreciates the parish’s uniqueness; yet each also understands the absolute need to work with all groups in the region for the betterment of the whole community.

We could not think of two more qualified candidates.

The business that Biglane leads, Concordia Bank & Trust was also honored Tuesday, earning the chamber’s business of the year award. Biglane and many others at the bank work hard both in their day jobs as community bankers, but also in their other jobs as community leaders.

Concordia Bank and its team members are at the heart of nearly every organization and every contribution to the community. Through their involvement, the community is made better.

Other honorees Tuesday included volunteer of the year, Patti Jones, and educator of the year Brandon Rowe. Like Malone and Biglane, both lead through their great examples.

Congratulations to all the winners and to each member of the local chambers for investing in the vital business community in our region.