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One of the top initiatives for the Hancock Chamber of Commerce this year is to establish an active steering committee to build the base of young professionals network in Hancock County. The Hancock Chamber executive committee recruited 20 young professionals who are dedicated to revitalizing the group, originally founded by Bailey Braswell of Edwards Jones and Mary Cowand of Keesler Federal Credit Union in 2018.

Young Professionals groups are instrumental in enhancing overall success by fostering discussions between seasoned professionals and newcomers. Joining such networks provides young workers an opportunity to shape policies that are crucial to the future of the workforce. As the local economy evolves, this initiative aims to bridge the gap between generations in the workplace, connect young professionals and to be a catalyst for future community engagement.

Members of the steering committee are a who’s who of leaders from businesses, governmental entities and nonprofits. Through the HYP program, the Chamber is harnessing the skills and enthusiasm of young professionals to effect change. During the April meeting held April 9th at Cuz’s Old Town Oyster Bar, Jordan Bradford was introduced as the new Chairman. He gave an enthusiastic speech to attendees sharing the vision of the committee.

“Our goal is to provide Chamber-supported opportunities for young professionals to network, grow in their expertise and engage with the community in a meaningful way,” he said. 

“The members of HYP want to play a significant role in championing issues that will impact not only this generation but future generations,” he added.

HYP Executive Committee:

Jordan Bradford, Gulf Regional Planning Commission – Chairman

Rachel Knight, Ross and Yerger – Secretary

Anna Ring Smith, Amy Northard CPA – Treasurer

Sara Shelton, Diamondhead School of Fine Arts – Membership Chair

Taylor Ladner, Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission – Events Chair

McKenzey Northington, Hancock County Tourism Commission – Marketing Chair

Empowering Success Across Generations

Joining HYP isn’t just about creating a network. It’s about fostering success for Hancock County’s workforce. Joining HYP is an opportunity to learn, teach, grow and ensure that everyone has a stake in each other’s success. The Hancock Chamber invites you to take an active role in shaping the policies and discussions that will define the future of the workforce. This is an opportunity to have their voices heard and make a tangible impact on the landscape they’ll inherit.

If a business is already a member of the Hancock Chamber, staff members under the age of 45 can participate in these HYP programs as a benefit of membership with no additional fees.  For those whose businesses are not yet members of the Chamber, they can join for only $75 per year. Contact Tish Williams for more information at 228.216.9048 or tish@hancockchamber.org.

Click here to join as an individual.

Click here for a list of Officers & Steering Committee Members.

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