Perdita's Coffee
Wednesday, April 10, 2024
7:00 - 8:30 AM
2938 North Avenue, Suite D​
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Western Healthcare Alliance
Angelina Salazar, MA
CEO
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
12:00 - 1:00 PM
715 Horizon Drive, Room 420
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RSVP required - register HERE!
Lunch provided.
Mama Ree's Pizza + Brewhouse
Thursday, April 25, 2024
5:30 - 7:00 PM​
664 North Avenue
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YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Andrea Lopez
External Affairs Manager
Ute Water Conservancy District
A native of the Western Slope, Andrea Lopez hails from the town of Palisade. She embarked on her journey of academic and professional excellence at Colorado Mesa University, graduating in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, specializing in entrepreneurship. Demonstrating a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to personal growth, Andrea furthered her education by obtaining a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Colorado State University Global Campus in 2021.
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Andrea's professional journey led her to the Ute Water Conservancy District, where she began serving as the External Affairs Assistant. After a year and a half, Andrea was promoted to the External Affairs Manager. In this multifaceted role, Andrea's passion for education and community outreach shines through as she tirelessly works to provide valuable insights into water conservation and the intricate workings of the District's systems. In her role, she is often the spokesperson for the company and interfaces with the public regularly. Her dedication to clarity and accessibility in disseminating information displays her commitment to serving the Western Slope community.
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A shining example of Andrea's dedication and impact is showcased annually at the Western Colorado Children's Water Festival, a cornerstone event that attracts over 1,500 fifth-grade students to Las Colonias Park & Amphitheater in Grand Junction. Under Andrea's stewardship, this festival has blossomed into the largest of its kind in Colorado, offering invaluable opportunities for students to learn about the vital role of water in their lives and communities.
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Last year, Andrea was selected to join the Urban Landscape Water Conservation Task Force. This group works closely with the state Department of Natural Resources and Colorado Water Conservation Board, working to identify ways to advance outdoor water conservation through state policy and local initiatives. She continues to be a voice for representation for the Western Slope in regard to water conservation.
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Beyond her professional endeavors, Andrea generously volunteers her time and expertise as a board member for both the Eureka! Science Museum and the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce. She is a graduate of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce Mesa County Leadership Program.
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Andrea’s dedication to the Young Professionals Network truly sets her apart. Andrea's unparalleled commitment is underscored by her record-setting tenure as a three-term board member, spanning an impressive six years. Her leadership, dedication, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of our organization and fostering a vibrant community of young professionals.
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Andrea's passion, drive, and unwavering commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to us all. Our heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude go towards Andrea for her exceptional leadership and contributions.
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF THE QUARTERS
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Young Professional of the Quarter is an award that honors Mesa County young professionals within YPNMC who have done an exceptional job representing young professionals or has made great achievements while being a member. The Board of Directors is always seeking nominations for the next Young Professional of the Quarter!
TESTIMONIALS
CANDICE WALTON
AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL SERVICES
"I have met all my closest friends through YPN. When I was new to the Grand Valley, this is where I found people who enjoy learning."
ASHLEY WOODMANSE
KONICA MINOLTA
"YPN is a great networking opportunity. Plus, it looks good to current and future employers that want to see a history of community involvement and leadership."
BEVERLY DURFEE
FREELANCE WRITER
"The candidate forum YPN put on was so helpful. I'm so glad I got to go to an unbiased presentation of the candidates."