The rain and clouds couldn’t begin to damper the light emanating from the 11th floor ballroom of the Chase Park Plaza yesterday evening (Thurs., Feb. 24) as the inaugural Salute to Young Leaders Networking Awards Reception was underway.
For each of the 20 under 40 being honored by the St. Louis American Foundation, there were at least 20 people on hand to bear witness. Hundreds of individuals – including family, friends, support systems, co-workers, church members community and business leaders – came together to offer a constant stream of applause, fellowship and encouragement.
“Here’s the example that all of you should follow,” said Richard Mark, senior vice president of Customer Operations for Ameren Corporation, as he gave kudos to Donald M. Suggs, president of The St. Louis American and event organizers. “This is what leadership is all about.”
As he discussed the critical need for St. Louis to retain and attract new young professionals in his brief remarks that ushered in the first round of awards, the lively audience and awardees buzzed with excitement.
“This is not one of those stuffy awards where I ask that you be polite and refrain from your applause until the end of the program,” said emcee Rebeccah Bennett.
The comment itself sparked a set of cheers as the folks stood by ready to holler, shout, stomp and whistle as accessory to the claps for an impressive group of individuals from a host of personal and professional paths.
Banking, health benefits, the judiciary, veterans’ services, energy, scientific research, administration, health, finance, investment, engineering, community relations, law, medicine and faith were just some of the fields that they represented.
“This honor assures your profile, but it also raises our expectations of you,” Bennett said.
And as they stepped forward to receive their awards, Bennett’s acknowledgement of each of their credentials as they walked towards the stage did much more than acclimate guests to certain commitments, accomplishments and passions. All twenty young leaders offered inspiration by what they’ve done thus far and insight of what is to come from them as they continue to lead by example.
“Leadership is a part of every successful community. Retaining young leadership is vital, this is how you grow,” Mark said following the event. “You have 400 people here tonight and you see a vibrant group of professionals. Atlanta has that reputation, but look at tonight – St. Louis has the vibrancy. When I retire, I hope to see one of these young leaders take my spot.”
Last night’s experience was eloquently summed up by a man who was far more concerned with delivering parting words of wisdom than wasting precious time to introduce himself.
As he stood on the elevator, he glanced at Morry Davis’ award and offered a gesture of appreciation.
“Congratulations,” the man said. “I’ve been in business for 32 years, and I know for a fact nothing motivates and encourages people to continue doing their best and moving to the top like letting them know you appreciate them for what they are doing right now. That’s what The American was doing tonight – and that’s what it’s all about.”
