With 150 expected to attend the YP Unite Summit at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum this weekend, the Owensboro Chamber of Young Professionals hopes to make a lasting impression on those in attendance.
Originally started and hosted in Louisville by Young Professionals Association of Louisville, the YP Unite Summit is an annual gathering of young professional groups and individuals from the region with the goal of networking, sharing best practices and leadership development.
According to Jessica Kirk, programs and events manager for the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, every other year, the Louisville association gives regional YP groups the opportunity to host the event.
Owensboro’s CYP group submitted a proposal to host the event in 2019 and Owensboro was voted to host by peer YP groups across the Commonwealth.
“Over the past few years, CYP has worked intentionally to provide members with opportunities to develop strong ties in the Owensboro community,” Kirk said. “Continuing to build those connections between young professionals and the community is significant to retaining talent.”
Logitech CEO Bracken Darrell, who is originally from Owensboro, will serve as the keynote speaker. Other speakers include Kentucky Wesleyan College football coach Craig Yeast, Owensboro Public Schools Superintendent Nick Brake, local handmade jewelry maker Jackie Smith, Niko’s Bakery chef Matt Weafer, Puzzle Pieces Executive Director Amanda Owen and artist Aaron Kizer.
“We are taking this opportunity to impress YPs from across the Commonwealth seriously,” Kirk said. “We want them to be ready to come back the moment they leave Owensboro.”
By Ashley Sorce, The Owensboro Times