Our Mission

The mission behind the NextGen Award is simple yet powerful: to shine a light on young leaders, inspire the community, and create meaningful opportunities that stretch far beyond the award ceremony.

Each honoree represents the drive, values, and future of Ulster County’s business and creative landscape. Through this award, we aim to amplify their voice, support their journey, and build a community that invests in its future—together.

Our Impact Goals

1. Recognize outstanding young professionals within the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce who go above and beyond in their industries and communities.
2. Inspire the next generation by showing what’s possible when young people lead with vision, heart, and purpose.
3. Help fund a student’s college journey and beyond. One of the key goals of the NextGen Award is to raise funds that directly support a local student pursuing higher education—turning recognition into real, lasting opportunity.

The NEXTGen Awards is a powerful new event led by the Young Ulster Professionals, honoring 12 rising young professionals in Ulster County who are making meaningful contributions in their careers and communities. It’s a celebration of leadership, integrity, and the often-overlooked individuals whose work makes a difference.

The NEXTGen Awards are not reserved for titles or positions—they are a celebration of character, commitment, and impact. This honor is open to young professionals across all roles within a business—whether they’re at the front desk or behind the scenes.

We believe true leadership and excellence can be found anywhere:

In the bank teller who greets every customer with warmth and efficiency.

In the janitor who ensures the workplace runs smoothly, day in and day out.

In the line cook, the gardener, the receptionist, or the warehouse associate who shows up with pride, integrity, and a dedication that lifts others.

The level of the position doesn’t matter. The person does.

We’re looking to honor those young individuals who are going above and beyond, whose hard work, kindness, and drive deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

If there’s someone on your team who you know is making a difference—nominate them. This is their moment to shine.

Know Someone Making a Difference? Nominate Them.

If you know a young, extraordinary professional who’s making waves in their field or community, we want to hear about them. Take a moment to fill out the nomination form below and help us get to know the amazing work they’re doing.

Whether they’re building something meaningful, leading with purpose, or quietly making a difference behind the scenes — this is your chance to shine a light on their impact.

Important: The nominee’s business or organization must be a current member of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce to be eligible.