Opelika 20 Under 40

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/

06/04/2026

Cheers to the 2025-2026 20 Under 40 graduating class! ✨🎓

Over the past year, these outstanding young professionals have dedicated their time to personal growth, leadership development, and community engagement. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished and can’t wait to see the impact they continue to make in our community.

A special thank you to the families, friends, and supporters who joined us to celebrate this milestone and the achievements of this remarkable class. ❤️

We would also like to thank our amazing graduation speakers:
• Ali Rauch, President & CEO, Opelika Chamber
• Lindsey Robinson, 2026 20 Under 40 Class Member
• Michael Burton, 2026 20 Under 40 Class Member
• Saffron Koppelmann, 20 Under 40 Class Liaison
• Samantha B. Copelan, District Judge of Lee County

Thank you to our partners The City of Opelika and our program sponsors Golden State Foods, and Hughston Homes, for investing in the next generation of leaders.

Congratulations, Class of 2025-2026! 🎉

05/22/2026

05/07/2026

We are so proud of our Opelika 20 Under 40 class for the completion of their service project at the Lee County Youth Development Center! 👏❤️

The class completely revitalized the outdoor recreational space by refreshing the basketball courts, helping install a beautiful new perimeter fence, and unveiling a custom mural that brings even more life to the space.

Yesterday, the class celebrated their hard work with an official ribbon cutting ✂️ alongside the incredible staff at LCYDC. They were also presented with a commemorative plaque in recognition of their impact and enjoyed a wonderful breakfast reception hosted by the Lee County Youth Development Center.

We are beyond impressed by these future leaders and the kindness, passion, and teamwork they brought to this project. We can’t wait to celebrate them even more at graduation next week! 🎓

04/30/2026

Our 20 Under 40 Leadership Program wrapped up their final session before graduation with a behind-the-scenes look at Opelika High School. 🎓🏫

The class heard from Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Kevin Davis about the continued growth of the school system and what’s ahead, then toured the campus with OHS Principal Kelli Fischer to learn more about the programs preparing the next generation of leaders.

It was a full-circle moment reflecting on how far this group has come—from new connections to lasting impact in our community.

We are so proud of this class and can’t wait to celebrate them at graduation.👏🎉

04/28/2026

Our 20 Under 40 class got an inside look at the incredible operations behind Golden State Foods during their recent industry session! 🍔

Golden State Foods is a global supplier that plays a huge role in the food industry, providing high-quality products and services to some of the world’s most recognized brands, including McDonald’s. Fun fact: they help produce more than 3.5 million burgers every single day 😳

A special thank you to Nathan Murphy, Group Vice President of Operations – Protein Products, for sharing his insight and giving our class a deeper look into the industry.

We’re so thankful for the opportunity to learn from such an impactful company and see firsthand the innovation, efficiency, and teamwork that go into feeding millions. Experiences like this are what make our 20 Under 40 program so valuable! 👏

04/23/2026

🚧🏀 20 Under 40 Service Project Update! 🎉👏

The 2025-2026 class has been hard at work bringing new life to the recreation area at the Lee County Youth Development Center (LCYDC)! So far, we’ve pressure washed the basketball court, repainted the lines, and installed brand new backboards—making it a space everyone can enjoy.

Now underway is the installation of a retaining wall and brand-new fence, and we are incredibly grateful to Turner Fence for making it happen! 🙌

The Turner Fence team is generously donating their time and expertise to this project, and we couldn’t do it without their support. Their commitment to giving back is making a lasting impact on this space and the children who will enjoy it.

💙 A huge THANK YOU to Turner Fence, along with all of our incredible donors and sponsors who have helped bring this project to life. Your support is truly making a difference in our community!

To learn more about how you can support the service project at LCYDC, visit our GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-renovate-lcydcs-recreational-space

04/21/2026

🚨 Calling all rising leaders! 🚨

The Opelika Chamber’s Opelika 20 Under 40 program is now accepting applications for 20 outstanding individuals under the age of 40 who live in Opelika, are passionate about this community, and are ready to help shape its future. 💥

This program is designed to grow the next generation of leaders through hands-on experiences, meaningful connections, and real insight into the people, places, and organizations that keep Opelika moving forward. From city departments to major employers and nonprofits—you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look while building your leadership skills along the way.

✨ What to expect:
• Leadership development + professional growth
• Networking with community and civic leaders
• A class-led community service project
• Monthly sessions + retreats from July 2026 – May 2027

📅 Applications are open now through June 19, 2026
📝 To apply, complete the application + submit your resume and one letter of recommendation

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

04/08/2026

Calling all 20 Under 40 alumni!! 🍻

Join us for an Alumni Happy Hour Social at Whistle Stop Bottle & Brew on April 15 from 5–6 PM CST.

Come catch up with fellow grads and enjoy a laid-back hour of great drinks and even better company. Swing by, grab a drink, and catch up with the leaders that make our community awesome.

Let’s keep this amazing network connected ✨

03/30/2026

🚔 Behind the scenes with Opelika PD!

Our 20 Under 40 class had the opportunity to tour the Opelika Police Department and get a firsthand look at what it takes to keep our community safe 👏

From meeting the K9 unit to learning about the School Resource Officers, SWAT team, training division, and more, we got an inside look at the teamwork, dedication, and heart behind every role.

It’s clear, every division plays a huge part in building strong community relationships and protecting our city 💙

Huge thank you to the Opelika Police Department for the warm welcome and for all you do for Opelika each and every day!