Northern Kentucky’s next generation of leaders is getting its moment in the spotlight.
The Northern Kentucky Young Professionals, a program of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, announced the winners of its 2025 Next Generation Leader Awards, which honor standout professionals 40 and under for their achievements and community impact.
The annual program highlights young talent across industries including education, healthcare, public service, skilled trades and entrepreneurship. This year’s winners:
- Advocacy & Government Affairs: Josh Tunning, City of Newport
- Arts, Entertainment & Hospitality: Nick Wade, ArtsWave
- Education: Paige Nieporte, Boone County School District
- Entrepreneurship: Jordan Smith, Medicinlogic
- Media & Marketing: Emily North, The Christ Hospital Health Network
- Medical & Healthcare Services: Brittany Sorrell, St. Elizabeth Healthcare
- Professional Services: Angela Hagedorn, Heritage Bank
- Public Service and Community-Based Organizations: Lauren Allhands, Brighton Center
- Skilled Trades: Mark Steller, Flottman Company
“Our region is full of dedicated and impressive young professionals who work every day to make an impact in the workplace and in the community, and this year’s NGLA winners are stellar examples of that,” said Tori Roberts, area assistant VP at Gallagher and chair of NKYP. “We are honored and excited to celebrate this year’s winners, and we look forward to continuing to see the impact they will continue to make.”
Supporting, promoting YP success
NKYP works to create opportunities for young professionals to connect, grow their careers and strengthen the community through diversity and inclusion. The awards advance that mission by recognizing YP for significant personal professional accomplishments as well as their contributions to the Greater Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky region.
Each year, a judging panel reviews applicants from across the region. The panel had the difficult job of narrowing this year’s field to 28 finalists in nine categories before selecting the honorees.
NKYP recognized winners during an event at The Carnegie.
The ceremony also honored longtime leadership from past recipients. David Kay, vice president of middle market banking at Fifth Third Bank, earned the 2025 NKYP Legend Award, which highlights a community leader who continually inspires young professionals.
“Young professionals are a key driving force of our region’s success now and into the future,” said Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber president and CEO. “The NGLAs are a fantastic opportunity to recognize the crucial role that young professionals have in our community, and the NKY Chamber is proud to recognize these deserving honorees.
“The future of Northern Kentucky is in great hands.”
Northern Kentucky Young Professionals
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