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40444444444444444444444444444444444444444440000000000000000000000000000000000000 11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111 1999–2024: 25 YEARS OF EXCELLENCECONTENTS NULYP HISTORY 3 PRESIDENT & EVP MESSAGES 4-5 REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS 6-16 SERVICE & IMPACT 17-23 PARTNERSHIPS & SPONSORSHIPS 24-25 LEADERSHIP REPORTS 26-33 AWARDS & RECOGNITION 34-36 CHAPTER DIRECTORY 37-38 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 39 39 2022–2023 NULYP LEADERSHIP PRESIDENT Shalondan Hollingshed EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Kendra Brim CENTRAL REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Adrianne Slash EASTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Jer’Mykeal McCoy SOUTHERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Thurman Green III WESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Chanelle Brown POLICY AND PROCEDURES CHAIR Jason G. Mitchell SECRETARY Jasmine L. Kent TREASURER Vanessa McKinney ADVOCACY CHAIR Kawanza Billy COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR Reuben Lael Griffi n INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY CHAIR Korri Jones LEADERSHIP, TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT CHAIR Cherrelle Duncan MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT & RETENTION CHAIR Harper Matthews PROGRAMS CHAIR Natasha Inniss NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE LEADERSHIP TIM MURPHY Chairman, Board Of Trustees MARC H. MORIAL President & Chief Executive Offi cer HERMAN LESSARD Senior Vice President, Affi liate Services SABRINA CHARLES Vice President of Affi liate Services & Strategic Partnerships ANTHONY MOLDEN Manager, Affi liate Services & Special Initiatives EU’NICE R. MCCOY Director, Event Marketing Editors: Shalondan Hollingshed, Kendra Brim, Eu’nice McCoy | Photography: Reese Bland | Design: Christopher Jones38 Urban League of the State of Arkansas Inc. Young Professionals Urban League of the Upstate Young Professionals (Greenville) Urban League of Union County Young Professionals Urban League Twin Cities Young Professionals Urban League Young Professionals of Greater Pittsburgh Urban League Young Professionals of Greater Southwestern Ohio Urban League Young Professionals of Metropolitan St. Louis Urban League Young Professionals of Middle Tennessee Urban League Young Professionals of Southern Connecticut Winston Salem Urban League Young Professionals Young Professionals Network of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts CHAPTER DIRECTORY 3 1999–2000 2000–2001 2002–2003 2003-2005 2005–2007 2007–2009 2009-2011 2011-2015 2015-2019 2019-2021 2022-2024 In the 1980s and 1990s, several Urban League affi liates recognized the need to prepare a new generation of young leaders to take the mantle of leadership of the Civil Rights Movement. Young African American men and women in their 20s and 30s were invited to participate in and take an active leadership role in their local affi liate Urban League programs and activities. These new professional auxiliary groups began to operate as programs of affi liates in: DETROIT, MI The Blue Monday Network CHICAGO, IL The Metropolitan Board PHILADELPHIA, PA Philadelphia Urban League Young Professionals WASHINGTON, DC The Thursday Network These auxiliary groups actively supported the Urban League movement by educating other young professionals about the movement, recruiting new members, furnishing young volunteers, sponsoring educational initiatives like youth mentoring and tutoring programs, coordinating fund-raisers for scholarships and for the fi nancial support of the affi liate, and delivering personal and professional development and networking opportunities to young professionals in their local communities. As these auxiliaries began to grow, the Affi liate leadership took note of their success and began to ponder the power of a national movement of young professionals across the country. Simultaneously, Hugh Price, then President and CEO of the National Urban League, realized the need to make this potential national movement into a reality. He held a historic “Young Professionals Dialogue Session” with over 200 young professionals in the New York area in April of 1998. This dialogue session, in addition to a white paper submitted by Marcus Mitchell, ignited the spark that led to the formation of a working group, tasked with establishing the framework and foundation for the National Urban League Young Professionals. Under the direction of Annelle Lewis, Senior Vice President of Affi liate Development and Programs, the working group again convened in New York in September of 1998. Led by Marcus Mitchell (Philadelphia, PA), the working group consisted of: • B. Michael Young (Washington, DC) • Brian Anderson (Boston, MA) • Chontell Macon (Providence, RI) • Felecia Carrington (Houston, TX) • Jennifer Braxton (Philadelphia, PA) • Karla Ballard (Wilmington, DE) • Kevin Hooks (Los Angeles, CA) • Kim Beason (Milwaukee, WI) • Melinda Emerson (Philadelphia, PA) • Rhonda Utley-Herring (Trenton, NJ) • Shawn Barney (New Orleans, LA) • Toi Anderson-Bennett (New York, NY) • Tyra Metoyer (Houston, TX) • Vernice Black (Philadelphia, PA) They met on several occasions throughout the year to develop the foundation and structure of the implementation of the organization. The National Urban League Young Professionals (NULYP) was unveiled at the 1999 National Urban League Annual Conference in Houston, TX. Marcus Mitchell assumed the role President and under his leadership the organization began to defi ne itself and to carve out its role in the National Urban League movement. The leadership team met regularly to refi ne the structure of the organization as well as to develop its fi rst draft of by-laws. Soon thereafter a special election was held to fi ll the open positions on the newly established NULYP executive board. NULYP HISTORY MARCUS MITCHELL KARLA BALLARD RYAN MYERS MICHAEL YOUNG NOLAN ROLLINS CASSIE COOK BARTON TAYLOR BRANDI RICHARD CARLOS CLANTON RAY SHACKELFORD SHALONDON HOLLINGSHED 1999–2024: 25 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE ›››4 Greetings YP family, I want to express my deep gratitude for the incredible leaders I have the privilege of serving alongside on the national executive leadership team, as well as every leader and member within each local chapter who tirelessly advances the Urban League agenda of economic empowerment. Your dedication is truly commendable. In 1999, the National Urban League established a platform that enables young professionals to fi nd, develop, and utilize their voices and talents through service and advocacy to the community. Over the years, the hands-on leadership development experience provided through service and advocacy has developed thousands of engaged and socially conscious young professional leaders in various industries who have a heart for the people of their community. Through volunteerism in the Urban League, young professionals learn how to lead teams, build strategic partnerships, organize community outreach eff orts, cultivate relationships, manage budgets, develop funds, become advocates, and so much more! The skills developed through the platform have led to higher-paying jobs allowing many of our young professionals to eventually become economically self-suffi cient, homeowners, and entrepreneurs all while serving their communities. I am humbled to be a part of such a rich legacy. At the beginning of 2023, and on the eve of our 25th anniversary, we provided an update on our ambitious vision to elevate the leadership development experience for our young professionals through service, advocacy, philanthropy, and professional growth. Alongside this vision were crucial goals and metrics aimed at ensuring tangible impact in our communities while providing comprehensive training and growth opportunities to members nationwide. I’m thrilled to report that our movement’s leaders have excelled. Throughout the year, we witnessed signifi cant growth in our young professional platform, marked by the launch of fi ve chapters, which enabled us to connect with new communities and enhance our ability to serve our constituents eff ectively. Strengthening relationships and presence across the four regions was a key focus, as evidenced by each region hosting activations aimed at developing members and fostering stronger bonds among chapters. Our growth trajectory persisted, highlighted by the highest attendance of young professionals at an Urban League conference, with thousands participating both virtually and in person. Furthermore, our advocacy eff orts extended to the streets of Washington and college campuses, where young professionals stood alongside us in championing voting rights, women’s rights, and civil rights. Together, we’ve served thousands, impacted millions, and continue to actively nurture the leaders of today and tomorrow. Thank you for freely giving your time, talent, and treasure to this movement and congratulations on 25 years of service to our communities and each other. A Message From the President President, National Urban League Young Professionals Shalondan Hollingshed 37 Akron Urban League Young Professionals Austin Area Urban League Young Professionals Birmingham Urban League Young Professionals Buff alo Urban League Young Professionals Central Florida Urban League Young Professionals Columbia Urban League Young Professionals Columbus Urban League Young Professionals Dallas Fort Worth Urban League Young Professionals Greater Baltimore Leadership Association Greater Phoenix Urban League Young Professional Greater Stark County Urban League Young Professionals Greater Warren-Youngstown Urban League Greater Washington Urban League Thursday Network Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals Jacksonville Urban League Young Professionals Knoxville Area Urban League Young professionals Las Vegas Urban League Young Professionals Lexington Urban League Young Professionals Lorain County Urban League Young Professionals Los Angeles Urban League Young Professionals Louisville Urban League Young Professionals Memphis Urban League Young Professionals Metropolitan Board of the Chicago Urban League Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League Milwaukee Urban League Young Professionals New York Urban League Young Professionals NExT Philadelphia Pinellas County Urban League Young Professionals San Diego Urban League Young Professionals Seattle Urban League Young Professionals The Alliance - Urban League for Bergen County Young Professionals The Exchange at the Indianapolis Urban League Tucson Urban League Young Professionals Urban League of Broward County Young Professionals Network Urban League of Central Carolinas Young Professionals Urban League of Essex County Young Professionals Urban League of Greater Atlanta Young Professionals Urban League of Greater Chattanooga Young Professionals Urban League of Greater Columbus Young Professionals Urban League of Greater Hartford Young Professionals Urban League of Greater Madison Young Professionals Urban League of Greater Richmond Young Professionals Network Urban League of Hampton Roads Young Professionals Urban League of Louisiana Young Professionals Urban League of Metropolitan Denver Young Professionals Urban League of Nebraska Young Professionals Urban League of Northwest Indiana Young Professionals Urban League of Oklahoma City Young Professionals CHAPTER DIRECTORY36 Niani Tolbert HIRBLACKNOW, CEO Kristin Fulwylie-Thomas - Founder and Executive Director, The Black History Project, Inc Stephen Miller Pitts - Chief of Staff , Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Jennifer Moore Producer- KHOU Channel 11 Ashlee Atkins - Diversity Manager, ASU Enterprise Partners, President Phoenix YP Chapter Marc Dones Former Executive Director, NIS YP HONORS Congressman Maxwell Frost, Florida, District 10 118th 5555555555555555555555555555555555555 By the Numbers 1000+ YPs Attending Conferences 47,100 People Served 9,263 YPs Trained 18 Partnerships In 2023, our primary focus within the ELT was on optimizing processes for greater effi ciency. Additionally, we organized our inaugural in-person ELT retreat for this leadership team, which served as a platform for reimagining innovation, charting the future trajectory of NULYP, and devising strategies to empower leadership within our organization. Notable accomplishments and highlights from the year include: 1. During the Western Region Innovation Summit held in Los Angeles, I had the privilege of representing Executive Leadership Team as a speaker, addressing the vital topics of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) alongside the role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). This opportunity served as a platform for professional development, fostering a deeper understanding of key issues surrounding diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It allowed me to engage with fellow industry professionals who share our commitment to creating inclusive environments. 2. I attended the Young Professional Institute alongside the EdChoice graduation was an enriching experience, uniting a diverse group of educators, advocates, and parents who are passionate about catalyzing positive change within the education system. Together, we explored innovative strategies, shared insights, and forged connections aimed at fostering equitable and impactful learning environments for all students. Overall, the organization successfully supported YP Chapters in adapting to change, implementing leadership strategies, and building relationships with previously untapped chapters. The involvement in key events and conferences further expanded the organization's reach and infl uence within the urban community. Executive Vice President Kendra Brim “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” —President Barack Obama $1M+ Raised =REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS 35 National Day of Empowerment Award Thursday Network - Greater Washington Urban League Young Professionals Join Week 2023 Award Central Region: Metropolitan Board of the Chicago Urban League Eastern Region: Thursday Network - Greater Washington Urban League Young Professionals Southern Region: Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals Western Region: Greater Phoenix Urban League Young Professionals Rookie Chapter of the Year Award Lorain County Urban League Young Professionals Sponsor of the Year President of the Year Ashlee Atkins, Greater Phoenix Urban League Young Professionals Vice President of the Year Urban League of Hampton Roads Young Professionals, Patricia Gibson National Day of Service Award Metropolitan Board of the Chicago Urban League Community Partnership Award Urban League of Greater Madison Young Professionals34 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION Chapters of Excellence 2023 Hugh B. Price National Chapter of Excellence Award: Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals 2023 James W. Compton Central Region Chapter of Excellence Award Urban League Twin Cities Young Professionals 2023 Maudine R. Cooper Eastern Region Chapter of Excellence Award The Thursday Network - Greater Washington Urban League Young Professionals 2023 Sylvia K. Brooks Southern Region Chapter of Excellence Award Urban League of Greater Atlanta Young Professionals 2023 John W. Mack Western Region Chapter of Excellence Award The Greater Phoenix Urban League Young Professionals Excellence in Advocacy Central Region: Urban League Twin Cities Young Professionals Eastern Region: Thursday Network - Greater Washington Urban League Young Professionals Southern Region: Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals Western Region: Los Angeles Urban League Young Professionals Central Regional Vice President The Central Region of NULYP enjoyed its second year of growth by adding the Tri-County Peoria Urban League Young Professionals and Stark County Urban League Young Professionals. Our Region also saw their eff orts for deepening their impact in their communities come to fruition. Chapters that were nearing hiatus status, were able to re-establish leadership and regain their footing with their affi liates. Central Region chapters deepened their legacies of service to their communities with bold initiatives and pipelines built for longevity. Moving forward, the Central Region remains committed to fostering collaboration, building infrastructure, and strengthening partnerships to further enhance the region’s presence and eff ectiveness in serving communities. Support Leads Kurt Rose Shauntée Randle Eastern Regional Vice President The Eastern Region of NULYP celebrated expansion with the addition of UL of Rochester YP, strengthening our region to 13 chapters. This achievement was the result of ongoing eff orts initiated by previous ERVPs. The 4th Annual NULYP Eastern Regional Conference “BEastCon 2023”, hosted by Richmond YP, marked a signifi cant milestone with nearly 150 attendees, making it the largest gathering yet. Under the leadership of Conference Chair Shante Stevens & Host President Tyrone Williams this event raised the bar. AvalonBay Communities once again provided title sponsorship, and the conference took place on the campus of Virginia Commonwealth University. Young professionals from across the East Coast convened in Richmond to explore topics such as trends in black tourism, enhancing Affi liate-YP relationships, supporting the next generation, and post-NULYP service. Affi liate CEO Larry Murphy & Board Chair Shemicia “Mimi” Bowen support demonstrated how Affi liate-YP partnership are vital to major events. A highlight of the event was “OG Status: Making Impact After YP,” featuring insights from past NULYP ERVP and BEastCon Founder, Jamil Crews. Additionally, the event supported over 10 black-owned businesses, further strengthening community ties and economic empowerment. “We are the stewards of The Movement, entrusted with the sacred duty to pave a path of progress for those who follow in our footsteps.” —Jer’Mykeal McCoy Support Lead Derin Oduye “Great leaders inspire future generation leaders. The C-Suite presidents used 2023 to do just that. Chapters worked hard aligning with their affi liates, building lead- ership pipelines and launching programs to deepen their im- pact in the communities they serve. The region is focused on building sustainably.” —Adrianne Slash Jer’Mykeal McCoy Adrianne Slash 77Southern Regional VP For the third year in a row, the Southern Region was represented in the Emerging Leaders Program with the participation of Geoff rey Lofton (Urban League of Greater Atlanta Young Professionals) and Brenda L. Morrison (Urban League of Broward County Young Professionals Network). The Region also had representation in the 2023-2024 Congressional Advocacy Program: Angelique Cooper ( Urban League of the State of Arkansas, Inc. Young Professionals), Antonio Carriere (Urban League of Louisiana Young Professionals), Reuben Griffi n and Erika Manuel (Dallas-Fort Worth Urban League Young Professionals) The Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals won the 2023 National Chapter of Excellence Award under the leadership of Victoria Hart. This marks the fourth time the chapter has won this prestigious award! The Southern Region held its fi rst in-person “So YP” Southern Region Conference in Atlanta, September 29, 2023 - October 1, 2023. This was an amazing, sold out Conference with over 130 attendees represented from all four regions in YP. Special thanks to Host Chapter, the Urban League of Greater Atlanta - Young Professionals under the leadership of Crystal Jordan for extraordinary hospitality. Thank you so much to the Planning Committee led by Dr. Brittany Marshall for curating an amazing Conference. The Urban League of Central Carolinas Young Professionals were selected as the Host Chapter for the 2024 Southern Region Conference in Charlotte, NC, September 27–29, 2024. The “Mighty South” is positioned to reactivate or establish four chapters in 2024. Support Lead Tyler Litt “Your service and attitude will out live any speech you make. Remember to have a servant’s heart and lead with humility.” — Thurman Green III Western Regional VP The Western Region of NULYP is in a renaissance where there is transformational growth and engagement. This year, YPs in the West have had remarkable accomplishments and monumental growth, positioning the region for continued excellence. For the fi rst time in the last few years, our region was 100% fi nancial with chapter dues paid to NULYP before the 2023 NUL Conference. As the fi rst region to ever host a regional summit, we were proud to bring back the Western Regional Innovation Summit. Led by host chapter, Los Angeles Urban League Young Professionals, the Western Region Innovation Summit was a success and a perfect blend of professional development surrounding innovation and cultural immersion. Our dynamic leaders immersed themselves in high-speed networking sessions with seasoned executives and entrepreneurs, panel discussions on leadership, advocacy, fi lmmaking, entrepreneurship and employee resource groups. For the second year in a row, a president from the West was awarded President of the Year in 2023 (Ashlee Atkins, Phoenix). We also had two Western Region leaders graduate from the NUL Emerging Leaders program (President Comfort Agara from Los Angeles and Immediate Past President Ashleè Wedgeworth from Denver). Additionally YP members Brianna Bennett (Los Angeles) and Ashleè Wedgeworth (Denver) graduated from the NUL Congressional Advocacy Program. At conference, our region had 100% of our chapters take home YP Distinguished Awards. To provide support to chapters, I traveled to four chapters and Urban League affi liates for membership events and retreats, demonstrating dedicated support to each chapter. Additionally, virtual events and a dedicated channel for chapter leaders across the West aided in increased cross-region collaboration and connections. The Western Region continues to be a model region where Young Professionals’ ideas and impact are propelling the NULYP movement forward for generations to come. “The best thing you can do for a person is to inspire them. That’s the best currency you can offer: inspiration. So, when a person can rely on you for that, that empowers them in every realm of their life.” - Nipsey Hussle 23 established chapters 100+ attendees of Western Region Innovation Summit Chanelle Brown Thurman Green III 88 33 Secretary The second year of this term has been remarkable in personal growth, professional leadership, and relationship building across the movement as I work to leave my mark on the movement. My role as secretary has elevated my institutional knowledge of National Urban League and its auxiliaries as well as deepened relationships with YPs across the country who are committed to equity and justice. This year was about building relationships and understanding operational gaps to prepare for the next phase of the movement. When asked to serve an extended term, it gave President Hollingshed and the team more time to meet our W.I.G’s as well as be intentional about succession planning. While sharpening my communications prowess with Chair Griffi n, I leaned on peer-to-peer mentorship with chapter Presidents and Secretaries to ensure strong local communication and transparency between national and local eff orts. While continuing to manage administrative tasks for the ELT and supporting member communications, I had the honor of participating in the Western Region Conference by moderating a panel on entrepreneurship as well as workshop with youth on climate change solutions and moderate a panel during NUL’s Youth Leadership Summit at Rice University. I am proud of my second year with our executive leadership team and look forward to the year ahead. While my love for the West Coast remains, I am excited to return home to the DMV and join Thursday Network in the next chapter of my YP journey. Onward! Innovation & Technology The Innovation & Technology Committee sits at the intersection of advocacy, technology, and imagination. We exist to improve operational effi ciencies of the movement through excellence in technology, but with the perspective of an innovator & dreamer. We channel the beginner’s mindset and challenge chapters to ask the question, “How might we ___?”. “In 2023, the committee doubled down on strategy, direction, and impact. This showed up as part of a four point strategy with a focus on simplicity, centralization, intentional design, and storytelling through data. Tactically, this showed up in chapter pilots for collaboration & membership management platforms, as well as website templates.” Committee Members Russ Hill Jr. Jasmine Poindexter Christopher Howard DeiMarlon Scisney • Evaluated over 17 diff erent membership management platforms • Engaged over 800 members on Slack • Facilitated 2 sessions on innovation Change will not come if we wait for some other person, or if we wait for some other ttime. We are the ones we’ve been wait- ing for. We are the change that we seek. — Barack Obama, 44th President of the United States Jasmine L. Kent “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” —Benjamin Franklin Korri Jones32 Treasurer & Fund Development As the Treasurer of NULYP, my role in 2023 encompassed overseeing fi nancial operations, reporting, and budgeting for the organization. Additionally, I collaborated with NUL’s corporate partners to implement young professional and community-focused initiatives nationwide. The Fund Development committee, which I chaired, worked closely with local chapters to support their sponsorship eff orts by providing guidance on creating sponsorship packets, budget templates, and pro- gram proposals. At the national and regional levels, the committee fo- cused on identifying grants, corporate sponsorships, foundation funds, and individual philanthropists to establish partnerships with NULYP. The NULYP Treasurer’s role extended beyond fi nancial management, as I actively collaborated with renowned sponsors such as Kimpton, Walmart, Ed Choice, Avalon Bay, and more. These partnerships played a vital role in supporting NULYP’s programs and initiatives and exem- plifi ed the organization’s commitment to fostering meaningful relation- ships with corporate entities. By eff ectively managing the organization’s fi nances, driving sponsor- ship acquisition, and establishing partnerships with esteemed sponsors, the NULYP Treasurer and Fund Development committee have contrib- uted to the fi nancial stability and growth of the organization. These achievements have enabled NULYP to continue providing valuable opportunities and resources to young professionals across the country, empowering them to thrive both personally and professionally. Policy & Procedures The Policy & Procedures Committee played a crucial role in ensuring the effi cient and eff ective governance of NULYP and its chapters. By interpreting the NULYP Bylaws, creating and man- aging operating procedures, and facilitating the revised national elections process, the committee provided valuable resources and guidance to promote consistency and best practices across the organization. Major accomplishments in 2023 included enhanced development of essential resources and documentation for local chapters. This included the creation of a Memorandum of Understanding and Operating Agreements , which provided a standardized framework for national leadership and chapters to establish and maintain their own alignment with their teams and organization’s principles. The committee also developed Proprietary Informa- tion protection Policy Guidelines to enhance meeting safeguard- ing of sensitive information. Also, in recognizing the importance of fostering a safe and inclusive environment, the committee refi ned the NULYP Ha- rassment/Discrimination/Bullying Policy Document, ensuring it aligned with current best practices and refl ected the organiza- tion’s commitment to creating a respectful and inclusive culture. Additionally, the committee enhanced the Corrective Action Document for NULYP RVPs and Chairs, providing a structured approach for addressing and resolving any issues that may arise within leadership roles. To further streamline the chapter chartering and activation pro- cess, the committee enhanced the 90-Day NULYP Chapter Char- tering/Activation/Re-Activation Document, providing a com- prehensive guide for chapters to navigate the necessary steps with clarity and effi ciency. Furthermore, the committee monitors and controls the Electronic Communication Channel Etiquette Document to promote eff ective and professional communication practices within the organization. Through these accomplishments, the Policy & Procedures Com- mittee has played a vital role in equipping NULYP and its chap- ters with the necessary resources, documentation, and processes to govern their operations eff ectively. By promoting consistency, inclusivity, and accountability, the committee has helped foster a strong organizational structure that supports the overall mission and vision of NULYP. Committee Members Marvin Price Erika Smiley Kennedy Payne Dana Massie Crystal Jordan Chapter Bylaws Reviewed Chapters Trained YP Essentials Trainings Conducted Regional Trainings Conducted “As NULYP chapters continue to grow across the country we must ensure that The Movement is fi nancially supported, and I am proud of be a part of that…” —Vanessa McKinney Jason Mitchell Vanessa McKinney Fund Development Committee Members Natalie Richards (Central Region Liaison Gabrielle Smith (Southern Region Liaison) Kenyon Wilson (Eastern Region Liaison) AKRON URBAN LEAGUE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Attracted more than 200 area YPs to their Join week activations, assisted other chapters in the region with establishing best practicies and training. COLUMBUS URBAN LEAGUE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Columbus Urban League Young Professionals had a huge fundraising year raising $50,000 between grants, events and programs. A portion of their eff orts allowed them to bring 25 members to conference in Houston including registration and lodging. They also celebrated welcoming 75 new members. LORAINE COUNTY URBAN LEAGUE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS At the inspiration of their leadership, launched an intentional membership relationship building strategy, and are proud to share signifi cant achievements in job placement for their members. With concerted eff orts, they have successfully facilitated career advancements for four of their members, guiding them towards either YP-led non-profi t organizations or other entities where YP leadership is prominent. This accomplishment not only underlines their commitment to each other’s professional growth but also reinforces the strength of our community. They also welcomed their fi rst YP baby! METROPOLITAN BOARD OF THE CHICAGO URBAN LEAGUE MetroBoard hosted their 40th Anniversary and shared the day with over 100 guests (members, alums and supporters from around the country). MILWAUKEE URBAN LEAGUE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Strategically worked to align with their affi liate and relaunch a new chapter format to meet the needs of their affi liate, emerging membership and their community. THE EXCHANGE AT THE INDIANAPOLIS URBAN LEAGUE Focused on creating a new membership experience. That focus raised their membership numbers from 22 paid members in 2022 to 114 paid members in 2023. The chapter raised $22,000 donated to the IUL. 3 of their members were selected for IBJ’s 2023 Forty under 40 and, they graduated our 7th class of The Exchange Leadership Fellowship consisting of 14 civic leaders in Indianapolis under 40. Central Region Highlights 99Next >