Palmer Gillis Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award

SALISBURY, MARYLAND – Feb 18, 2025 – Gillis Gilkerson founder Palmer Gillis was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Salisbury University Alumni Associations annual awards ceremony held on February 15, 2025.  The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented each year to an alumnus who has demonstrated long-term success in his or her career, and who exemplifies the attributes of a Salisbury University graduate such as leadership, citizenship, community service, and or service to their business or industry.  Palmer accepted the award surrounded by the support of his family members.

A proud graduate of Salisbury State College (now Salisbury University) in 1975, Palmer majored in business administration & economics before building a distinguished career.  At just 30 years old, he took a leap of faith and founded Gillis Builders in 1983 which soon became Gillis Gilkerson. Specializing in commercial and industrial projects, his reputation quickly grew thanks to his strong community connections. His dedication to revitalizing Downtown projects earned him recognition from influential local leaders including Dick Henson, Bill Ahtes, and Pete Cooper.

His passion for his community was evident in his early leadership roles, serving as President of the Salisbury Jaycees, Vice-President of Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development Corporation, and President of the Downtown Salisbury Association. Gillis continued his commitment to civic engagement and public service through his long-term membership with the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Salisbury Committee, and serving terms on the Salisbury-Wicomico Planning & Zoning Commission, the Salisbury City Council and Ocean City Planning & Zoning Commission. Palmer was further recognized when he was selected for Leadership Maryland, participating in statewide initiatives to drive progress and collaboration. Palmer is also the recipient of the Salisbury University President’s Distinguished Community Leadership award (2016), the Lower Shore Distinguished Citizen award (2015), and the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame award (2023).

Throughout his career, Palmer Gillis has remained a cornerstone of community service with his efforts extending to his involvement with Tidal Health Foundation, the SU Foundation and his leadership supporting causes in the Delmarva region.  A true local and a dedicated alumnus, Palmer Gillis embodies the values of Salisbury University, as he continues to make significant contributions to both his profession and his community.  This well-deserved honor celebrates a lifetime of dedication, vision, and service. 

Congratulations, Palmer!