As this year’s 2024 40 Under 40 awardees are honored, we take a moment to check in with previous winners and celebrate the profound impact this recognition has had on their careers and communities.
In its third year, Arlington’s 40 Under 40 program stands out as a hallmark of the city’s commitment to nurturing, recognizing, and encouraging the next generation of leaders. These awardees come from diverse backgrounds, spanning industries like technology, education, healthcare, and public service. These leaders are then propelled back into their communities with renewed purpose, fortified commitment, and an unstoppable drive to make a lasting impact.
“The 40 Under 40 program amplified and strengthened my network with the next generation of leaders within our community,” says Lisa Ward, Wealth Management Advisor at ChappelWood Financial and 2022 Inaugural Class Awardee. “We are all busy making an impact in our industries, and this program allowed the opportunity to open doors to other leaders across all industries”.
Honorees often describe their recognition as a moment that reaffirms their passion and work, helping to reinforce their commitment to their fields. For many, the award encourages them to look beyond individual accomplishments and think about the lasting difference they can make in the community.
“Being a 40 Under 40 recipient has reinforced that the impact my efforts have on the Arlington community matter,” says Molly Self, Client Services Manager at the Arlington Convention and Visitors Bureau and 2023 Awardee. “It’s an honor and privilege to be recognized alongside peers from the entire Arlington business community that we all have the power to make a difference. Being able to connect with like-minded community champions from different industries across Arlington is how powerful partnerships that implement change come to fruition, and 40 Under 40 recipients are leading the charge to make Arlington ever better and brighter than each day before”.
The benefits of the 40 Under 40 program extend beyond the participants. By highlighting the contributions of young professionals, Arlington sends a powerful message to the next generation: hard work, innovation, and a commitment to community service are valued and celebrated. This visibility helps inspire others in the community to follow similar paths, knowing that their work will be recognized.
“The awards play a vital role in the upward mobility and retention of young people in Arlington”, says Garret Martin, Vice President of Downtown Arlington Management Corporation and 2023 Awardee. “It nurtures that community pride that can only happen through recognition of those who are growing and succeeding in our community. Young people in Arlington are pouring their hearts into their work here, and this is a great way for Arlington to show them that it’s worth it, and that they have a future here”.
Arlington is taking a proactive approach to developing a thriving professional landscape, and the 40 Under 40 program plays an instrumental role in achieving that goal. The selection process for the program is rigorous, ensuring that honorees are individuals who have displayed not only professional excellence but also a commitment to community involvement and innovation. Recipients are chosen for their ability to inspire, lead, and bring positive change to Arlington’s future. With each class, a network of game changers and power players is strengthened, creating a sense of shared purpose.
“40 Under 40 not only recognizes our businesses and our accomplishments, but also has given us an amazing group of alumni that we will always have to lean on”, says Drew Smith, Owner and CEO of Lone Star Drone and 2022 Inaugural Awardee.
Arlington’s 40 Under 40 program has a ripple effect that continues long after the awards are handed out. Many alumni go on to hold prominent roles in city government, nonprofits, and business, bringing with them the values and connections they cultivated during their shared time together. By investing in these young professionals, Arlington ensures a future filled with skilled leaders who are deeply connected to the community’s needs.
The legacy of Arlington’s 40 Under 40 program is one of encouragement, acknowledgment, and impact. Each year we look forward to learning more about the trailblazers in the city we all love. Through this program, Arlington is affirming its dedication to building a stronger, more connected community – one that values its young leaders and the fresh innovation they bring. Together, we’re shaping a legacy of progress and purpose, fueled by the passion of those who will carry our city forward.
