Rowan Chamber of Commerce Wins Prestigious 2024 Communication Excellence Award
Year of the Young Professional Campaign
The Rowan County Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce that it has received a 2024 Communication Excellence Award from the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (CACCE). This honor was bestowed during the CACCE Staff Leadership Development Conference at the Hyatt Regency in Greenville, SC.
Awarded in the "Campaigns Over 700 Members" category, the Rowan Young Professionals' "Year of the Young Professional" campaign significantly bolstered the professional and social fabric of the community. This initiative, marked by a formal proclamation from the Rowan County Commissioners, engaged over 1,000 young professionals through nearly 50 events and raised over $9,000 to expand the program's offerings.
Terry Osborne, Rowan-Kannapolis ABC Board and Rowan Chamber Chair of the Board, expressed pride in the young professionals: "Their exceptional commitment and innovative spirit are shaping our community’s future. This award is a testament to their impactful work across Rowan County."
Mollie Ruf, Chair of the Rowan Young Professionals program, commented on the award: “Winning this award is a huge affirmation. It shows that the efforts of our executive and sub-communities to build a legacy for future young leaders in Rowan County are truly making a difference.”
The program demonstrated remarkable results in 2023, marked by a significant expansion of its digital presence and community outreach. The Rowan Young Professionals Facebook Group grew to over 750 members in one year (currently quickly approaching 900), creating a vibrant platform for networking and support, while its Facebook page attracted nearly 2,000 followers, extending its reach and impact. Instagram engagement also saw a substantial increase, with 558 followers connecting with the program's content and initiatives.
Key innovations last year included the introduction of a new professional development series titled “Development Bites”, catering to the evolving needs of Rowan County's emerging leaders. Additionally, the expansion of program offerings like the addition of another boat in the Dragon Boat Festival and the launch of a co-ed kickball team provided unique, engaging ways to connect with both existing and new members. These initiatives not only enriched the program's event lineup but also strengthened community bonds among participants.
For more information about the Rowan Young Professionals program and other initiatives at the Rowan County Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.rowanchamber.com/young-professionals.