Some 160 people were on hand Wednesday as the American Business Women’s Association Lake Lanier Charter Chapter selected its 2009 Business Woman of the Year.

Dede Gossage, program coordinator for the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center in Gainesville, was given the honor in a luncheon held at First Baptist Church on Green Street.

Gossage was presented the award by last year’s winner, Deborah Mack, former Hall County commissioner.

The award is given each year to a woman who has been successful in many areas of her life.

"It’s given for professional achievement, as well as what they have contributed to the community," said Sybil Hall-Beheler, an ABWA member and the group’s recording secretary.

The annual event is the group’s only fundraiser and proceeds go to educational grants for area students, both male and female, traditional and nontraditional, Hall-Beheler said.

"It’s always a very good fundraiser and a very well-attended event," she said.

Gossage was one of three women nominated for the award.

The keynote speaker for Wednesday’s event was Mary Lou Frank, associate vice president of academic affairs at Gainesville State College.