The Young Professionals of NWF Leadership Conference brings together the region’s dynamic Young Professionals groups for a day of learning, networking, and inspiration! Hosted by the Crestview Area, Destin, Greater Fort Walton Beach, Navarre, Niceville Valparaiso, and Walton Area Chambers of Commerce, this event is designed to connect and empower emerging leaders.
Attendees will gain valuable insights from community and business leaders through engaging panels and inspiring speakers, covering topics like leadership development, career growth, and community impact.
Sponsorships available:
$1,200 Table Sponsor (Six Total, One for Each Chamber)
- Table for Eight Guests
- 6-Foot Display Table
- Ability to Place Marketing Material at All Seats
- Recognition in Promotions and on Program
$500 Gold Sponsor (Twelve Total, Two for Each Chamber)
- Complimentary Entrance for Four Guests
- Recognition in Promotions and on Program
10:00 AM | Check-In & Coffee
10:30 AM | Welcome
10:40 AM | Panel #1: Building Your Career Through Community Service
Panelists: Bernard Johnson, FPL Regional External Affairs Manager for Okaloosa and Walton Counties
Mel Ponder, Northwest Florida State College President
Neko Stubblefield, Eglin Federal Credit Union Senior VP of Membership and Community Development
11:30 AM | Panel #2: Unlocking Career Growth - How networking & community involvement still give you the edge
Panelists: Christian Carlee, First National Bank Market President
Julie Cotton, Northwest Florida State College Chair of Hospitality & Tourism Management
Danica LaFaire, Fish Window Cleaning Franchise Owner
12:30 PM | Lunch Buffet
1:15 PM | Panel #3: Developing In-Demand Skills – Stay competitive in a rapidly evolving job market
Panelists: Michael Beedie, WM Gulf Coast Area Senior Manager of Government Affairs
Todd Jackson, HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital CEO
Dr. Cristie Kedroski, Northwest Florida State College Senior Vice President
2:15 PM | Cookie Break
2:30 PM | Panel #4: Developing a Strong Personal Brand – Position yourself as a valuable professional in your industry
Panelists: Corey Dobridnia, Walton County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer
Cali Hlavac, Sassy Tangerine Creative Owner & Marketing Strategist
3:30 PM | Session will be announced soon!
4:15 PM | Roundtable Q&A Questions that attendees have placed in the “parking lot” will be answered. Answers are encouraged from other attendees in the audience.
4:30 PM | Closing Remarks
5:00 PM | Offsite Happy Hour
Date and Time
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
10:30 AM - 4:30 PM CDT
Location
Fees/Admission
$49
