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U.S. Rep. Diana Harshbarger nominated businessman Greg VonCannon for the prestigious 2023 Statesman of the Year award.

Every year, the Republican Party of Tennessee hosts the annual Statesman’s Dinner dinner, honoring the contributions of conservative leaders like VonCannon.

“It is with great honor and pride that I announce Greg VonCannon as the distinguished recipient of this year’s Statesman of the Year award, bestowed upon him by the Tennessee GOP. Greg’s exceptional commitment to public service, unwavering dedication to the principles of our party, and remarkable contributions to our community have set him apart as a true statesman.”

VonCannon, Dealer Principal for Rusty Wallace Toyota in Morristown and Rusty Wallace Ford in Dandridge, is known for being the face of the car dealership’s commercials as well as for leading the company’s spirit of giving.

In the last year alone, Rusty Wallace Toyota and Ford have given significant gifts to organizations like Girls Inc., the Boys & Girls Club, the Daily Bread and Central Services.

This past May, Walters State Community College announced a new scholarship endowment gift of $10,000 from Rusty Wallace Toyota with the Walters State Foundation that will support students pursuing careers in law enforcement and criminal justice.

VonCannon was born and raised in Siler City, North Carolina. He studied furniture engineering at North Carolina State. He came to East Tennessee for a job in the furniture business and eventually found a home.

“It is my pleasure to recognize him as the recipient of this esteemed honor,” Harshbarger said. “Congratulations, Greg.”