LEGACY, an organization for young professionals, recognized winners of its Regional Young Professional Awards at a dinner program recently at the Madison Event Center. The awards included the Next Generation Leader Awards and several speciality awards to established leaders.
Nine Recognized with Next Generation Leader Awards
The sixth annual Next Generation Leader Awards were presented to nine young professionals to salute and applaud their professional achievement, community impact and demonstrated leadership.
“The Next Generation Leader Awards process is designed to applaud the skills and work accomplished by exceptional young leaders in our community” said Elizabeth Fricke, Next Generation Leader Award Chair for LEGACY. “It is a true honor for LEGACY to be able to thank these individuals for their contributions to the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region.”
The winners were:
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation: Cate Yellig-Becker
Business, Financial, and Legal Services: Claire Parsons
Community and Social Services: Katie Meyer
Design and Construction: Kate Stanton
Education: Amy Hull
Entrepreneurial: Jake Rouse
Government and Public Affairs: Sharmili Reddy
Manufacturing, Technology and Sciences: Ashley Norton
Medical and Health Care Services: Amy Bolton
The Next Generation Leader Awards were open to individuals between 21-40 who live or work in the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati area.
Applicants were judged by a selection committee of a diverse group of community leaders and industry experts within each of the nine categories and narrowed down to 27 finalists.
Mike Hammons, Legacy Impact Award
LEGACY also presented the fourth annual IMPACT award to Mike Hammons, Director of Advocacy for Children, Inc. The IMPACT award goes to an individual who has been a champion for young professionals.
“Mike Hammons was the President of Forward Quest, the predecessor to Skyward, when Legacy was first dreamed up and formed as an organization. Hammons was integral to the successful launch and early foundation created for Legacy.” said Jordan Huizenga, President of LEGACY. “Throughout his career, Mr. Hammons has dedicated himself to supporting and opening doors for younger professionals. His leadership style and demeanor encourages engagement, leadership and creativity from those under his management.”
Trey Grayson, Legacy Legend Award
The fourth Legacy Legend Award was given to Trey Grayson, President and CEO of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. The LEGACY Legend award goes to a previous member of LEGACY who has continued to inspire leadership and career success after participation in the organization. This individual has displayed tremendous career and community accomplishment and continues to support young professional leadership in the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati Region.
“Along with all his personal achievements in business, education and politics, Trey has always served as an inspiring representative, mentor and leader for young people.” said Huizenga. “As a LEGACY alumni, he has embodied the values of service, leadership and community engagement that we work to develop in all of our members. LEGACY is lucky to have Trey as an alumni and he deserves this recognition.”
Beth Nowak, Emerging Philanthropist Award
The Greater Cincinnati Foundation’s Northern Kentucky Fund recognized Beth Nowak of Giving Families with the Emerging Philanthropist Award for her significant community contributions.
“While teaching Kindergarten, Beth observed the fact that young children are innately altruistic and was inspired to create Giving Families, an online resource providing parents and educators with activities designed to educate, engage, and empower children through shared moments of giving. By helping adults nurture the compassion of kids, teach them the fundamentals of giving, and instill a lifelong habit of service, Beth champions family philanthropy.” said Shiloh Turner, Vice President for Community Investment for the Greater Cincinnati Foundation.
Sharmili Reddy, Skyward Salutes Award
Sharmili Reddy, city administrator for Ft. Mitchell, was presented with the first Skyward Salutes Award by Skyward, previously Vision 2015. This honor is presented to a young professional who has showcased tremendous tenacity and dedication to the continued success and elevation of the Northern Kentucky region. Skyward presents this award on behalf of the community.
LEGACY is a tri-state organization for young professionals between the ages of 21-40. Annual membership dues are $99 per person, and business memberships are also available. To learn more about LEGACY visit www.legacyleadership.org.