The Network kicked off the new year by hosting our annual New Year, New Leaders event, where we get to hear from the new Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors and the Committee Chair of The Network.

This year, the group watching in person at DoubleTree Hotel and watching online welcomed Logan Aguirre of 417 and Jessica Harmison Olson with Maxon Fine Jewelry to the stage. They told members about their background, lessons they have learned, what they love about our community, what we can look forward to in 2021 as they lead us and more.

This year’s event did not disappoint, and it showed that we are in good hands with these two leading the way. And, as was mentioned during the event, 2021 also marks the first time in the Chamber’s history that women are serving as board chairs in back-to-back years, so we were grateful to be part of that exciting moment!

Here were some of the top takeaways from the event:

-Both leaders set New Year’s resolutions. Jessica wants to improve her public speaking skills, while Logan know it’s going to be a busy year, so taking care of herself and ensuring she’s in a good headspace will be critical.

-When asked what advice they’ve received in the past that has impacted them, Logan shared this: “Do what you said you would do.” Jessica shared something her grandpa always told her: “proper prior planning prevents poor performance!”

-As we look to this new year, both leaders have a few things they want to focus on for the Chamber and The Network. Logan would like to see businesses move from “survive to thrive” so that, when it’s safe to do so, we can continue the momentum we had going before the pandemic. Meanwhile, 2020 was still a great year for The Network, so Jessica wants to build on the work we accomplished last year. As we continue to grow The Network, she wants to retain as many YPs as we can.

-When asked what excites them about the future, both pointed to anything about placemaking – but specifically the energy around Forward SGF! We have a feeling 2021 is going to be a great year and we are looking forward to seeing these leaders thrive and help us to accomplish even greater things moving ahead!

Watch the full event below: