The Greater Minden Chamber celebrated the announcement of the 2023 Young Professional of the Year on October 24, during a ceremony held at the Minden Civic Center. Haynes Mandino emerged as the deserving recipient among the 15 candidates under the age of 40.
Haynes Mandino, an educator at Minden High School, holds the dual role of a baseball coach while also serving as a dedicated volunteer firefighter. Additionally, he takes on the role of a student minister at Emmanuel Baptist Church.
The awards ceremony, hosted by Mandi Hart and Greg Lee, marked a significant occasion as it honored the late Mayor Terry L. Gardner, who was a steadfast sponsor of this prestigious award. Last year, the accolade was renamed the “Terry L. Gardner Young Professional of the Year” in his memory. Mandi Hart, one of the emcees, noted, “Terry truly believed in young professionals growing professionally. He inspired everybody to know that there is a leader inside of them, and that little things make a difference when you serve your community.”
Brandi Cade, the 2022 Young Professional of the Year, had the privilege of announcing Haynes Mandino as this year’s recipient. She described him as “an old soul living in a 20-something-year-old’s body” and praised his dedication to selfless service and servant leadership. Cade emphasized Mandino’s positive impact on the community, stating, “Haynes Mandino makes Minden a better place. He is changing our city by investing in the lives of others.”
Upon receiving the award, Mandino expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’d like to thank the community of Minden and the business leaders, and all the people who had a hand in raising me. I urge you to love your Lord first and then to love your community and the people you are around. Influence them in a positive manner and, more importantly, I urge you not to give up on the youth of our community. I see firsthand every day the next generation of young professionals.”
This recognition underscores the significance of community engagement and mentorship, exemplified by Haynes Mandino in Minden.