We need the ‘40 Under 40’

The Community Crossroads publication, created by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, summarized its findings by stating that “Northwest Connecticut is in the midst of tremendous demographic changes that will have an impact for many years. The challenges that have arisen are multi-faceted and complex, and cross town lines.”

Developing trends indicate a declining number of millennials, particularly ages 25 to 35, falling pubic school enrollment and a rapidly increasing senior population. These indicators threaten our quality of life, a skilled, experienced and decreasing workforce, the tax base, local business support and economic security.

This valuable information confirmed the findings obtained from a number of Focus Groups that met throughout the planning for the Working Cities Challenge. It was determined that one of the major challenges is to retain and attract young talent to the region. The Chamber’s Young Professional Community Engagement Committee responded by creating a new and exciting initiative, the first ever for northwest Connecticut, the Litchfield County Leaders Under 40.

A panel of distinguished community leaders reviewed more than 100 nominations. Each one was evaluated based on career or educational achievement, commitment to excellence in their industry, leadership within their organization, involvement in the community, and potential impact on the future of our region.

Forty were selected from the exceptional nominations and will be honored at the inaugural event on July 26 at Chatterley’s Banquet Facility. The evening will feature the unveiling of the Litchfield County Leaders Under 40 Magazine and will recognize the outstanding group of honorees.

Emcee for the awards presentation is Natasha Lekwa, a host, influencer and marketing and social media editor of Forbes. We are grateful to the Planning Committee: Steph Burr, NW CT Arts Council; Tracey Chadwick, Prime Time House; Thalyia Newman, Prime Time House; Samantha Walk, Elevator Service Co; and Lauren Zordan, vice president of programs and events for the chamber, for her efforts to galvanize and revitalize the Young Professionals Organization.

Thank you to the Supporting Sponsors: Elevator Service Co. and Northwestern Connecticut College; and Gold Sponsors: Torrington Savings Bank, Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, Red Barn Consulting, Brooks, Todd & McNeil, Hoekenga & Machado, Attorneys At Law and VNS of Connecticut. We’re in for one extraordinary evening. Hope you join us no matter your age! Aren’t we all 39?