Opelika 20 Under 40

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Opelika 20 Under 40

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Opelika’s 20 Under 40 program prepares the future leaders of Opelika!

10/22/2026

Our 20 Under 40 class had the opportunity to tour one of the newest additions to East Alabama Health’s campus!

During this session, our class got an inside look at East Alabama Psychiatric Services (EAPS), a facility dedicated to providing comprehensive outpatient mental health care for patients of all ages. It was a great opportunity to learn more about the importance of mental health services, the impact they have on our community, and the incredible work being done right here in Opelika!

A huge thank you to the East Alabama Health team for welcoming our class, sharing their knowledge, and giving us a behind-the-scenes look at this amazing facility! 👏✨

10/09/2026

Once a 20 Under 40 member, always a 20 Under 40 member! ❤️

The impact of 20 Under 40 doesn't stop at graduation! Our incredible Board is proof of that. These alumni continue to show up, give back, build connections, and help shape the program we all know and love.

We're so grateful for the time, energy, and passion this group pours into keeping the 20 Under 40 legacy alive!

And to our fellow alumni, there's always room to get involved! Whether it's reconnecting with your class or taking on a leadership role, we'd love to see you continue being part of what makes this program so special.

09/28/2026

Our 20 Under 40 class had a jam-packed session exploring the many opportunities available at Southern Union State Community College and learning how higher education is helping build the workforce our region needs.

The class started with Dr. Eric Sewell, Dean of Technical Education and Workforce Development, who gave them an inside look at Southern Union’s technical education programs and how they connect directly with local and regional industry needs. They then toured several programs in action, including Engineering and Design, Automotive Service Technology, and Industrial Electricity.

The class was amazed by just how many opportunities are available right here in our community to gain hands-on skills and prepare for a career.

Next, they headed over to the Health Sciences Building for a private tour with Richard Pike, Dean of Health Sciences. They got to see several of Southern Union’s health science programs up close, including Nursing and Paramedic, and even caught students in action!

This session was the perfect reminder that continuing your education can look a lot of different ways and many of those opportunities are right here in our own backyard. 🎓👏

09/24/2026

A huge shoutout to the Opelika Fire Department Training Center for giving our 20 Under 40 class one of their most memorable sessions yet!

The class heard from Battalion Chief of the Training Division, Dennis Hanson, about how the Opelika Fire Department trains some of our region’s incredible firefighters and the hard work, relentless training, and countless hours of practice that go into becoming a firefighter.

And if that wasn’t cool enough, the class got an inside look at the training center, including the classrooms, burn buildings, and even the maze firefighters use to practice navigating challenging situations. Some of our more adventurous class members even got to climb into the front seat of a fire truck and try on the full firefighter gear! 👩‍🚒

Thank you to the Opelika Fire Department for giving our class such an educationa and FUN experience. We have a whole new appreciation for the people who train and serve our community every day! ❤️🚒

09/22/2026

Our new 20 Under 40 class learned what’s in store for them this year at their first ever class retreat! That means they are officially ready to hit the ground running. 👏

But it wasn’t all about what’s ahead. The class also got a chance to turn the focus inward with Enneagram extraordinaire Patrick Hitchman Craig, learning more about their personalities, strengths, and areas for growth. They also heard from past Board Chair Lauren Bland Bernier and current Board Chair Mary Katherine Marsh, who shared their own 20 Under 40 experiences and plenty of wisdom for making the most of the journey.

And because no retreat is complete without a little competition, we sent them downtown for a scavenger hunt! 🏆 They put their teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test before celebrating with drinks at Red Clay Brewing. 🍻

09/21/2026

As part of the 20 Under 40 program, we believe it’s important for our class to not only grow as leaders, but to understand what’s happening right here in the community they call home.

For their first official session, our class attended an Opelika City Council meeting and got a firsthand look at local government in action while learning more about the issues and opportunities shaping our community.

And they even received a pretty special welcome! Mayor Eddie Smith gave our full class a shoutout and introduced them to everyone in attendance. 👏

It was the perfect first step in getting this group connecte and ready to make an impact. We can’t wait to see where this year takes them! 💙

09/15/2026

🎉 And so the 2026–2027 20 Under 40 journey begins!

Our new 20 Under 40 class had a blast getting to know one another at our Kickoff Social at Tiger Town Sports! It was the perfect way to officially kick off the year and, of course, share plenty of laughs.

We’re so excited for everything this class will accomplish and contribute to our community over the year ahead. This was just the beginning, here’s to an incredible year with an incredible group! ✨

09/09/2026

WOW 🤩 WHAT A CLASS!
Please join us in congratulating the NEW 2026-2027 class of the Opelika Chamber's 20 Under 40!!

Opelika Chamber’s 20 Under 40 program was created to bring together young professionals from diverse professions & backgrounds to learn about the intricate workings of our community! This class will have opportunities to dive deeper into our community's rich heritage, quality of life, economic development, entrepreneurship, and growth! We invite you to read all about our 2026-2027 class here: https://www.opelikachamber.com/leadership.../20-under-40/

👏 They are all truly emerging leaders in our community and we are proud to have cultivated such a rockstar class! Be sure to follow this page to keep up with all of the latest young professional info in our area!

Thank you to our program sponsors City of Opelika, Al - City Government, Golden State Foods, and Hughston Homes Opelika, for your generosity! We sincerely appreciate your investment in our community and the development of our young professionals!

Welcome to 20 UNDER 40!! 🎉

06/26/2026

🎉 Calling all 20 Under 40 Alumni! 🎉

Applications are open for the 20 Under 40 Board of Directors!

If you’re a past class member looking to stay involved and help shape the future of this amazing leadership program, we’d love to have you on the board. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow alumni and support the next generation of local leaders.

🗓️ Applications close July 10.

Apply here: https://business.opelikachamber.com/ap/Form/Fill/pl41XFBp

06/05/2026

‼️ Time is running out! Applications for our 20 Under 40 program close on June 19!

If you’re under 40, passionate about Opelika, and ready to grow as a leader, now is your chance to be part of the next Opelika 20 Under 40 class.

This program is designed to connect emerging leaders with the people, organizations, and industries shaping our community. Through monthly sessions, leadership development opportunities, and a class-led community service project, participants gain the knowledge and connections needed to make a lasting impact.

✨ Why apply?
• Develop your leadership skills
• Connect with the Opelika community and business leaders
• Build relationships with a network of future leaders
• Learn how Opelika works from the inside out
• Make a difference through a meaningful community project

Application deadline: June 19, 2026
Application requirements:
• Completed application
• Resume
• One letter of recommendation

Don’t wait until the last minute. The deadline will be here before you know it!

Apply today ➡️ https://www.opelikachamber.com/leadership-programs/20-under-40/

Address

Opelika, AL
36801

Telephone

+13347454861

Website

https://www.opelikachamber.com/leadership-development/20-under-40/

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