On October 23rd, the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Young Professionals of Mesa County, celebrated the second annual BestSlope NEXTGen Awards, honoring a cohort of young leaders making a profound impact across Mesa County. This year’s awards brought together a diverse group of honorees from various industries, backgrounds, and stages of their careers. United by their dedication to the community and remarkable contributions, these leaders represent the promise and potential of the next generation.
The event underscored the importance of cultivating talent within our valley. Grand Junction Chamber’s 2024 Board Chair, Kelly Johnston, highlighted the significance of these young professionals in her remarks, stating, “Young professionals represent the future of our workforce and community. Their passion, energy, and commitment are essential for fostering a thriving environment with robust businesses and organizations. This year, it was a true honor to recognize outstanding young professionals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, hard work, and a strong commitment to our community through their careers, volunteerism, and personal growth. I have always believed that talented individuals do not need to leave our valley to build a successful career—and these award recipients exemplify that spirit, proving that success is possible right here in our own community.”
This year’s honorees reflect the community’s broad talents and the unique strengths each brings to their fields. Rob Cook, a 2024 honoree, expressed his gratitude, sharing, “It’s humbling to be recognized alongside other dedicated leaders in the valley who are making an impact in the community. I feel fortunate to have worked under the inspirational leadership at HopeWest, and it’s an honor to serve our frontline clinicians who are so dedicated to our mission.”
Congratulations to this year’s BestSlope NEXTGen Award recipients:
- Melissa Asay – City of Grand Junction
- Dane Barslund – FCI Constructors
- Noah Beaver – Munro Supply, Inc.
- Neal Bohnen – HCL Engineers
- Rob Cook – HopeWest
- Jack Curry – Riverside Education Centers
- Madison Donnafield – DWC CPAs and Advisors
- Nicole Gardner – JGMS
- Elisabeth Henry – GROWL Agency
- Alyssa Mackey – Hilltop Community Resources, Inc.
- Philip Masters – Homeward Bound of the Grand Valley
- Emily McCallister – West Slope Colorado Oil & Gas Association
- Tom Oliver – Alpine Bank
- Rachel Peterson – Mesa County
- Brooklyn Reuwsaat – Business Incubator Center
- Faith Rodriquez – United Way of Mesa County
- Ben Snyder – Grand Junction Sports Commission
- Maxwell Weckerly – The Golf Club at Redlands Mesa
These young leaders are not only shaping the present but are building a brighter, more resilient future for Mesa County. The Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals of Mesa County are proud to recognize and support this vibrant new generation of professionals who are passionate about driving meaningful change and opportunity within the community.