Jim Darwiche Honored with 2025 Clarene Law Memorial Legacy Award: A Lifetime of Service to Jackson Hole
The Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce announced on October 15th, 2025, that local entrepreneur and former elected official Jim Darwiche will receive the 2025 Clarene Law Memorial Legacy Award at the Annual Awards Celebration on October 17th, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. This prestigious honor celebrates Darwiche’s decades of dedication to fostering Jackson Hole’s vibrant economy and community, as recognized by Chamber President and CEO Rick Howe. The award, named for the late Clarene Law—a trailblazing legislator and businesswoman—marks its fourth year, underscoring Darwiche’s alignment with her legacy of selfless service. This recognition highlights the Chamber’s commitment to honoring those shaping Teton County’s future, much like ongoing community support efforts in Jackson Hole’s youth mentorship programs. Here’s the story behind the award, Darwiche’s contributions, and event details.
The Clarene Law Memorial Legacy Award: Honoring Indelible Impact
Established in 2021 following Clarene Law’s passing, the award commemorates her extraordinary contributions as a two-time Citizen of the Year, state legislator, and hotelier who championed tourism and economic growth in Jackson Hole. Law, who owned the 49er Inn and advocated for Wyoming’s tourism industry, exemplified putting community above self. The Legacy Award recognizes individuals whose actions create lasting positive change for businesses and the broader Jackson Hole area. Howe noted, “Jim Darwiche’s commitment… is unwavering,” praising his work as an elected official and tackling pressing needs. Past recipients, including Law herself posthumously in 2022, reflect the award’s focus on enduring influence.
Jim Darwiche: A Pillar of Jackson Hole
A Lebanese-born entrepreneur who arrived in Jackson in 1977 after his Volkswagen Westfalia broke down en route to Yellowstone, Darwiche left a Boeing career to build a family legacy here. Over 45 years, he opened restaurants, expanded into retail, and developed commercial properties, culminating in Hotel Jackson—a Forbes Four-Star Virtuoso property and 2023 Power of Place Gold Award winner. As a former Teton County commissioner, Darwiche championed workforce housing, including exploring the former Legacy Lodge site for affordable units in 2021. His ventures, like FIGS restaurant, embody community-focused entrepreneurship, supporting the $1.5 billion tourism economy while prioritizing local vitality. Darwiche’s story—from immigrant to civic leader—exemplifies the resilience the award honors.
The Annual Awards Celebration: A Night of Recognition
The October 17th event celebrates not just Darwiche but finalists across categories like Small Business of the Year and Extra Mile Community Service, fostering networking among Jackson Hole’s leaders. Tickets are available at jacksonholechamber.com, with the evening featuring speeches, awards, and mingling at the iconic Cowboy Bar. Founded in 1946, the Chamber promotes a “vibrant economy, dynamic community, and treasured environment,” making events like this central to its mission.
Why It Matters for Jackson Hole
In a valley where tourism drives growth but strains resources, figures like Darwiche bridge economic progress with community welfare, supporting initiatives from housing to recreation. The Legacy Award reminds us of Law’s influence—securing tourism funding and mentoring women in business—while inspiring ongoing efforts like Teton County’s economic forums. It celebrates those ensuring Jackson Hole remains a place where people stay for the community, not just the mountains.
Join the Celebration
Secure tickets and learn about finalists at jacksonholechamber.com. For local business news, follow Jackson Hole Radio. Congratulate Darwiche by attending—his legacy, like Law’s, enriches us all.
- Jim Darwiche Honored with 2025 Clarene Law Memorial Legacy Award - October 16, 2025
- Prepare for Jackson Hole Winter: Clear Streets, Sidewalks, and Join Fall Clean-Up by November 15th - October 16, 2025
- Jackson Hole Mountain Resort ‘Ski in Jeans’ Starts December - October 16, 2025
