Colonial Group, Inc. has announced that Michael Cornaire has received the Savannah-based company’s third annual Robert H. Demere, Jr. Soaring Eagle Award. The award’s 2023 recipient was revealed at the annual company party held at the Marriott Savannah Riverfront on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. 

The award was named in honor of the company chairman, Robert H. Demere, Jr., who served as its
president and chief executive officer from 1986 to 2021. Colonial Group has continued to operate as
a privately held business since 1921 through the chairmanships of its founder, Raymond Demere;
his son, Robert H. Demere, Sr.; and Robert’s son, Demere Jr. In 2018, Christian B. Demere became
president of the company and then succeeded his father as CEO in December of 2020.

Demere presented the award during Colonial Group’s “Wild West” themed annual company party.
The award was first developed in 2021 to commemorate the company’s centennial celebration and
employees participated in the nomination and voting process.

Cornaire joined Colonial Terminals as a Utility Operator in 2008 and has been promoted several
times during his 15 years with the company. He currently serves as the Director of Marine
Operations for Colonial Oil Industries.

“This award recognizes Michael’s individual achievements, but it also reflects the impact he has had
on the entire organization,” said Demere. “Michael’s contributions over the years have played a vital
role in shaping our company culture and reinforcing the values that define us.”

Colonial’s more than 2,200 employees had the opportunity last fall to select one of their own who,
throughout their career at Colonial, has exemplified service, integrity, entrepreneurship, and family.

The guiding principle of this award is that “there is no limit to what a person can achieve if they don’t mind who gets the credit”.

Cornaire and future award winners will receive a $7,500 bonus and one extra week of vacation. The
company plans to continue to bestow the award to one employee each year who consistently
embodies Colonial Group’s core values.