Know a rising star in your industry or community? Concord Young Professionals Network is seeking nominations for our Young Professional of the Month. We’re looking for standout individuals who are making an impact — whether or not they currently participate in CYPN. Submitting a nomination is quick and easy on our website. We all know at least one deserving young professional. Help us celebrate them at https://concordnhchamber.com/impact/young-leaders/.
As we look forward to celebrating more young professionals in 2026, here’s a glimpse back at the 2025 Young Professionals of the Month.
January: Janelle Drake
Drake, an engineer, is the co-founder of The Affirming Spaces Project, a nonprofit organization that trains New England businesses on gender-inclusive practices to help make welcoming spaces for people of all gender identities and presentations. In addition to playing the baritone saxophone, Drake spends time volunteering on the boards of The Key Foundation and the WPI Alumni Association.
February: Derrick Loughlin
Loughlin can often be found behind the lens of a camera through his photography business. A former Marine and EMT, he continues finding ways to help people and especially enjoys working with nonprofits and showing them the impact they have on the communities they work with.
March: Lauren Cahill
Cahill created the Instagram account CapturingConcord to highlight local businesses and promote community events. She serves on the CYPN Steering Committee and volunteers with InTown Concord, a testament to her desire to facilitate community connection wherever she can.
April: Sierra Hubbard
With a background in journalism, Hubbard turned toward a career supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. In addition to serving on the CYPN Steering Committee, Hubbard’s joy of connecting with others extends to the videogame and cosplay communities and beyond.
May: Katie Duncan
Between theater and the outdoors, Duncan spreads a love of the arts and community in all she does, including through her wedding photography, educational outreach, nature exploring and more.
June: Cady Hickman
As a proud Concord Rotarian, co-founder of Queen City Improv and a national performer, Hickman brings creativity and connection to every role she takes on, both as a marketing professional and in the arts.
July: Nate Lavallee
The owner of FlexABLE Assisted Stretching and Wellness, Lavallee is a passionate advocate for movement, mindset and meaningful change. With a mission to build stronger bodies and stronger communities, Lavallee helps clients unlock their potential — one stretch at a time.
August: Arianna MacNeill
As a communications professional, MacNeill engages directly with communities throughout the area, bringing a dedication to public service and a love for vibrant downtown living. She serves on CYPN’s Steering Committee and enjoys perusing books at Gibson’s and sampling Concord’s dining scene.
September: Emma Toma
In addition to keeping operations moving smoothly at her job and taking pride in being a reliable resource for clients and colleagues alike, Toma brings a spark of creativity to her personal and professional life with a background in music and a passion for playing guitar and piano.
October: Evan Sullivan
When he’s not working to improve mobility systems, Sullivan volunteers his time conducting migratory bird counts in the White Mountains, in addition to staying active through hiking, boxing, and enjoying Concord’s vibrant local scene.
November: Madison Hendrick
A proud resident of the Concord area and a Leadership Greater Concord graduate, Hendrick stays connected to the Capital Region and its robust young professional network while serving on the board of Speedway Children’s Charities at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
December: Jen Abou Raad
Abou Raad’s contagious passion for community pairs perfectly with her professional career. Whether she’s collaborating with local businesses to host partnered events, slaying Arts Alley’s social media or volunteering with InTown Concord, she is deeply committed to celebrating Concord and putting smiles on faces.