YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARDS

​SAVE THE DATE:
​WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29 2026
CERESVILLE MANSION

Generation Connect's mission is to build ties that help further individual careers, encourage collaboration, empower volunteerism, foster upcoming leaders and strengthen our Frederick County business community. The Young Professional of the Year Awards recognizes outstanding young professionals who are making a significant impact in their industries and communities.

In 2026, we will return to Ceresville Mansion to celebrate young professionals under the age of 40 who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and dedication both in their career and in the community. Whether they are excelling in their profession, leading volunteer initiatives, or creating positive change through advocacy, these individuals are paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.

2025 Event Recap

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SPONSORSHIPS

Sponsoring the Young Professional of the Year Awards is an opportunity to invest in the future of Frederick County’s business community. By supporting this event, sponsors align their brand with leadership, innovation, and community engagement; values embodied by the next generation of local leaders. Your sponsorship helps us celebrate and empower young professionals who are making a lasting impact, while showcasing your commitment to fostering growth, talent, and connection within our vibrant community.

sponsorship benefits

Claim your sponsorship

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NOMINATE A YOUNG PROFESSIONAL

Frederick County’s young professionals are the driving force behind much of the region’s economic growth, cultural development, and social change. By recognizing and celebrating these exceptional young professionals, we aim to inspire others and showcase the vibrant talent that shapes the future of Frederick County. We invite you to nominate exceptional young professionals who embody these values and have shown remarkable achievements and growth. Your nomination will help us recognize and celebrate their hard work and impact! Nominations are currently closed.

Eligibility

Award Categories

To be considered for these awards, nominees must meet the following criteria:
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1. Must be 40 or younger prior to January 1, 2026
2. Must work or reside in Frederick County, MD (including remote workers).
3. Cannot be a member of the Generation Connect Committee 
4. The nominee must be at the beginning of the leadership journey and demonstrate excellent leadership potential and have shown a willingness to take on new challenges, inspire others, and make a positive impact on their community.
5. The nominee must have a record of community involvement and have demonstrated a commitment to making a positive impact on their community through volunteering, charitable work, or other initiatives.
6. The nominee must embody the spirit of the awards by exhibiting personal qualities such as integrity, passion, dedication, creativity, and a commitment to professional growth.

• Young Professional of the Year: This award honors an exceptional individual who exemplifies leadership, professional excellence, and community impact, serving as a role model and inspiration to young professionals in Frederick County.
• Educator of the Year: Recognizing excellence in education, this award celebrates a dedicated professional whose teaching inspires learning, growth, and positive change for students in Frederick County.
• Entrepreneur of the Year: This award highlights a visionary leader whose innovative business efforts have strengthened Frederick County’s economy and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
• Rising Star: Honoring a young professional with five or fewer years in their career, this award celebrates outstanding early achievements, potential, and dedication to excellence in their field.
• S.T.E.A.M. Young Professional of the Year: Celebrating excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, or Mathematics, this award recognizes a young professional driving innovation and progress in Frederick County.
• Volunteer of the Year: This award honors an individual whose selfless volunteer efforts significantly enhance the lives of others and contribute to the well-being of Frederick County’s community.