The Lincoln Young Professionals Group (LYPG)(lincolnypg.com), a program of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, is closing out 2025 after a year focused on building the organization’s three-year strategic plan. Over the past 12 months, LYPG has worked with its members and stakeholders to develop a strategic plan that will guide the group’s growth and impact through 2027. The strategic plan focuses on growing and retaining membership, enhancing professional development opportunities, and fostering community engagement and education through volunteerism and civic literacy. It represents LYPG’s renewed commitment to be a platform for young professionals to connect, grow, and lead in Lincoln.
The 2026 LYPG Leadership Council will work to bring the next year of the plan to fruition: Derek Kay (FNBO) – Chair, Emma Kwapnioski (University of Nebraska Foundation) – Vice Chair, Courtney Strayer (Bryan Health) – Past Chair, Carrie Bartholomew (ALLO Fiber), Eric Bertrand (Lincoln Federal Savings Bank), Emilee Meints (Morrow Collision), Michael Sandvold (University of Nebraska), Sydney Schoening (Immanuel), Susan Twiehaus (Security First Bank).
Each year, new council members are selected through a formal application process and are ratified by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. This group will be responsible for leading LYPG initiatives and ensuring the successful execution of the strategic plan.
“This strategic plan gives us a strong foundation to grow from,” said Derek Kay, 2026 LYPG Chair. “It’s a direct reflection of what our members value and where they believe LYPG can make the greatest impact over the next five years.”
Find more information about LYPG and upcoming 2026 events at lincolnypg.com.