From the Chamber
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce recently sponsored two local young professionals and Chamber Ambassadors to attend Kansas Young Professionals (YP) Day at the Capitol, an annual statewide event designed to connect emerging leaders with elected officials and elevate the voices of the next generation shaping Kansas’ future.
Melissa Doll of Buchanan & Associates LLC – American Family Insurance and Callie Miller of Housing Opportunities attended on behalf of Great Bend, joining young professionals from across the state for a day of learning, networking, and civic engagement. The event included legislative insights, issue-focused discussions, opportunities to meet with lawmakers, and conversations centered on building a competitive, innovative, and welcoming Kansas.
“Being involved as a young professional means showing up and taking ownership of the future we want to live and work in,” Doll said. “Events like YP Day remind us that our perspectives matter and that local voices can influence statewide decisions.”
Miller echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of representation. “Kansas needs to hear from young leaders who are committed to their communities,” she said. “Participating in YP Day was a powerful reminder that investing in talent and leadership development is essential for long-term economic and community growth.”
Chamber President Megan Barfield said the investment directly supports the Chamber’s advocacy priorities within the Elevate GBK strategic plan.
“Elevate GBK calls us to strengthen leadership development and ensure Great Bend has a voice in conversations that shape policy and economic growth,” Barfield said. “Sponsoring young professionals to engage at the Capitol is part of our commitment to advocacy and to cultivating the next generation of leaders who will help move our community forward.”
The Chamber’s sponsorship reflects its continued focus on developing talent, strengthening civic engagement, and advancing policies that support a competitive, innovative, and prosperous Kansas.
Learn more about the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce’s strategic plan at greatbend.org/elevategbk.