Thursday evening the Greater Minden Chamber hosted their annual 15 Under 40 Gala. Each year this is an opportunity for the Chamber to recognize young professionals in the local area who have gone above and beyond in their respective fields as well as for the local community as a whole.
Ryan Barnette – GBT – Gibsland Bank & Trust
Chris Bordelon – RecLand Realty, LLC
Elizabeth Campbell – City of Minden
Jordan Cupples – AEP – American Electric Power
Michael Davis, Jr. – The Michael Anthony Creative Agency
John-Joseph “Jay” Grigsby – Webster Jr. High
Marcus Harmon – Carrier Enterprise
Halea Lipinski – Wise, Martin, and Cole CPA’s
Brandi McNeill – Minden Physician Practices
Twyla Mims – Webster Parish Assessor’s Office
Morgan Monday – b1BANK
Sarah Overall – Ochsner LSU Health System
Braley Raborn – Mission Creek Resources
Kristin Reagan – Minden Medical Center
Tamra Wichelns – Home Federal Bank
While all 15 of the individuals selected are more than worthy of the recognition they received, the Chamber is presented with the difficult challenge of choosing one amongst them as the Terry L. Gardener 2024 Top Young Professional of the Year. This year the title was awarded to none other than Sarah Overall.
Members of the Greater Minden Chamber planned for many months a special surprise for this year’s 15 Under 40 Awards Gala, turning it into a 16 Under 40 event. They wanted to include a nominee who for many years would not allow herself to be nominated. This outstanding individual was none other than CEO/President of the Greater Minden Chamber, Stephanie Barnette, who was introduced by none other than her husband, Ryan Barnette, after he received his award.
“This next recipient has turned down nominations for this award over the years to ensure that others worthy of this honor didn’t miss their seat at the table. In Minden, her name is synonymous with words and phrases like professionalism, dedication, volunteer, work ethic, and lover-of-community,” said Barnette.
“I watched, as we all have, day after day and year after year how much she has contributed personally to the success of not only the Greater Minden Chamber but so many businesses and people in our city and the surrounding area. Additionally, so many of our city’s events including this one would not be possible without her hard work, dedication, and unparalleled leadership.”
The 2024 Greater Minden Chamber 15 Under 40 Gala was a true celebration of the talent, dedication, and community spirit that drives Minden forward. As these young professionals continue to make strides in their respective fields, their commitment to excellence and service serves as an inspiration to all.