2022-2024 Leadership Team
HYPE Wayne County (Helping Young Professionals Engage) is excited to announce the 2022-2024 Leadership Team. These two young professionals will be responsible for leading the county’s only young professional organization into the next phase of growth.
Traci McCollum from Radford’s Meat Market and Deli will be serving as the HYPE Wayne County committee chair. This role is responsible for leading the monthly meetings, planning, and organizing the monthly HYPE nights and professional development opportunities. When asked about her new position, Traci stated, “I have enjoyed my time with HYPE Wayne County and am looking forward to getting more involved with the organization and with the community.” Traci, a Richmond native, also serves on the Board of Directors for Richmond Civic Theatre as well as teaching dance at Dance Techniques. “I am excited for the growth of opportunities for young professionals and how HYPE can further those opportunities.”
Alex Painter from the Wayne County Foundation will be assuming the role of HYPE Board Liaison on the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors. This position was created in the 2019 merge between HYPE and the Chamber to include the voices of young professionals at the Board level. “We have so many passionate young professionals in our community, and I am delighted to have an opportunity to play a role in the future development and advocacy of the program.” Alex, an Earlham College graduate, is married to his wife Alicia Painter, and they have 3 children. Alex recently was involved in the dedication of the Negro League Baseball Plaque, located in Glen Miller Park.
Both positions were previously held by Mark Broeker of Reid Health. Mark has led the organization since January 2020, serving in a vital role during the transition of HYPE from an individual 501(c)3 to an action committee of the Chamber. “The last two years have seen many struggles through the COVID pandemic, but it has been an honor to be able to serve on the Board of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce and as the Chair of HYPE. I could not be prouder of the commitment, growth, and work that young professionals throughout Wayne County continue to do to shape the future. This is a new, exciting era for young professionals to continue to make a positive change throughout Wayne County.”
The Chamber’s staff lead for this committee will continue to be Roxie Deer, who has been with the Chamber for 4 years and with HYPE Wayne County for 5 years. Roxie will be the contact person for partnerships, sponsorships, and other opportunities.
HYPE Wayne County is the area’s only young professional organization, working with any individual 21-40 years old to provide social networking, professional development, and volunteer opportunities. Young professionals can join HYPE for free if their company is a member of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce or pay a $5/month fee to participate. To learn more about HYPE Wayne County, please visit: www.hypewaynecounty.org or email Roxie at Roxie@wcareachamber.org.