The Auburn Chamber of Commerce launched the Auburn Young Professionals (AYP) program on Tuesday, Jan. 31 at the Moore’s Mill Club.
The program is aimed at engaging young professional aged 21 to 40 and encouraging them to network with each other as well as with other businesses around the Auburn area.
According to Anna Hovey, the Director of Business Development and Special Events for the Auburn Chamber, approximately 100 people signed up at the launch event of the AYP.
“We found over and over that people were excited about this, and we thought that it was somewhat of a void where this kind of program was needed, but the response was like an overwhelming affirmation that it was definitely needed,” Hovey said.
Auburn Mayor Bill Ham and President of Auburn Bank Bob Dumas attended the kick-off event and spoke of their time as young professionals and the importance of making professional connections and being active in the community, according to Hovey.
Six events will be offered over the course of the year for members, which vary in time and day of the week in order to accommodate members with a diverse range of schedules. The events will focus on developing business relationships, networking opportunities, community outreach and leadership skills.
Guest speakers like Auburn University Baseball Coach Butch Thompson, who is scheduled to speak at an event this February, will also be at some AYP events.
An annual payment of $50 is required to be a member, and attendance at programs and events is encouraged but not mandatory. Members of Auburn Young Professionals must also either be a member or be employed by a member of the Auburn Chamber.
Applications for membership are available at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce website.
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