Phoenix Chamber Welcomes VYP Board Members
The Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce (GPCC) welcomes three new members to its Valley Young Professionals (VYP) Board of Directors. The program, designed for Valley professionals ages 25-39, aims to create the next generation of Phoenix leaders through educational programs and valuable networking opportunities.
The 2016-2017 VYP Board oversees VYP programming including identifying thought-provoking content, timely speakers and interesting venues for VYP events.
“The newest additions to the board are a remarkable group,” said Erin Mettille, VYP Board of Directors chair and business development executive for Slalom Consulting. “They’re bringing a diverse set of skills and perspectives that will keep VYP moving forward.”
The new 2016-2017 board members at large are:
Julie Sorensen, Operations Administrator, CIGNA
Bethany Bennick, Youth & Education Program Coordinator, Phoenix Sister Cities, City of Phoenix
Ashley LaRae Sampson, Director of Community Relations, The Art Institute of Phoenix
“I am excited to be surrounded by a community of dedicated and accomplished young professionals who are eager to represent Phoenix and champion its progress,” Bennick said.
The VYP Board will begin focusing on attracting and retaining young professionals to the greater Phoenix area. This will align its programming with the workforce and talent pipeline development efforts of the Chamber’s economic development initiative, Phoenix Forward.
“The Chamber is honored to include these ambitious leaders to our Valley Young Professional board,” said GPCC President and CEO Todd Sanders. “Each one brings a sincere determination to inspire the next generation of leaders here in Phoenix.”
The new board members’ unique perspectives will help VYP’s ongoing mission to build lasting relationships, establish professional development opportunities and act as a catalyst for change in the community.
“I’m looking forward to deepening not only my connections with other Valley professionals, but to help others establish those lasting connections too,” Sampson said.
Sorensen, Bennick and Sampson join 13 VYP board members and will serve an initial two-year term.
“I’m joining a team of like-minded young professionals from diverse backgrounds, experiences,” Sorensen said. “It’s going to be exciting to see the opportunities to contribute our unique skill sets to strengthen our community and inspire positive change for other young professionals.”
For more information about the Chamber’s Valley Young Professionals, contact Brittney Conklin at 602.495.2194 or bconklin@phoenixchamber.com.
