SPRINGFIELD — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will host its Third Thursday: Alumni Connections & Annual Showcase, a monthly networking event today, Jan. 18, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Springfield Country Club in West Springfield, while honoring and paying respects to longtime YPS member Jennifer Schimmel.

This Third Thursday event will feature a review of 2023 events, partnerships, and community investments, as well as an outlook for 2024. Highlights for 2023 include more than 25 events, 18 partnerships, and more than $18,000 in community investment, with plans to surpass those numbers in 2024.

YPS will also seek to partner with local colleges and universities and engage in more volunteer and community giving opportunities in the coming year. Existing members and other young professionals interested in membership will have the opportunity to network with board of directors alumni and learn more about how YPS helped with their professional development.

During the event, YPS will take a moment to honor and pay respects to Schimmel, who passed away on Jan. 7. Professionally, Jennifer dedicated her talents to nonprofit organizations, holding the position of executive director of Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity from 2007 to 2019. She has held various support roles with organizations such as Hartford Seminary, Wadsworth Atheneum, and Shakespeare & Company.

HOLYOKE — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) recently welcomed three new board members. Springfield YPS elevates the level of each member’s craft by enriching their experience through programs and networking events that add value and remain relevant to their ever-evolving industries.

Springfield YPS continues to concentrate its efforts on business and career development, networking, social and cultural involvement, and community activism. Its diverse membership comes from a wide range of professions and backgrounds united by a commitment to make Springfield a better place to work, live, play, and stay.

New board members include Aiden McDonald of Visual Sound Productions, Ryan Brassard of Raymond James, and Sarah Federation of Bacon Wilson.

The new board members join existing board members Nikai Fondon of Berkshire Bank and the “She Did That!” podcast, Elizabeth Hillis of WWLP, Alaina Macaulay of UMass Amherst, Lauren Zuber of the Markens Group, Drew McConaha of Train for Life, Melissa Cuzzone of EBS Insurance Brokers, and Ashley Batlle-Ramos of Beauty Batlles Lounge, as well as YPS Treasurer Russ Kelly, Secretary Isabella Brandy-Prankus of the Gray House, co-Vice President Kara Bombard of Performance Food Group, co-Vice President Tyler Hadley of DDS Acoustical Specialties, and President Heather Clark of the Baystate Health Foundation.

“Having such a robust board of directors will further our ability to provide more quality events and professional-development opportunities throughout Greater Springfield,” Clark said.

To learn more about Springfield YPS and its programming, visit www.springfieldyps.com.

SPRINGFIELD — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) hosts Third Thursday networking events to connect community members and local businesses. The next event is slated for Thursday, Feb. 16 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Artist Café located at 1365 Main St., Springfield.

Third Thursdays are networking events that take place on the third Thursday of each month. YPS partners with local businesses and nonprofits throughout Western Mass. to help host events and connect community members with a night of networking, conversation, wine, and art. Third Thursdays are free for Springfield YPS members and $10 for non-members. Click here to register.

“Our goal here in the Western Mass. community is to continue to provide meaningful ways professionals can connect and build their networks,” said Heather Clark, YPS president. “This month, we wanted to add to our Third Thursday lineup by creating an opportunity for families to join at our Thunderbirds Night. We hope these events continue to foster connectivity and professional development for this community.”

The Artist Café aims to provide coffee in an atmosphere that promotes diverse art and culture. Its mission aligns with that of Springfield YPS and Third Thursdays, to help build a strong community by connecting its members to people, businesses, and issues important to young professionals.

HOLYOKE — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will kick off the new year with two January events, including a Leadership Luncheon on economic development and tourism on Tuesday, Jan. 10 at Venture X Holyoke at noon, and its annual membership-drive networking event on Thursday, Jan. 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Springfield Country Club.

YPS’ first Leadership Luncheon of the year will feature a panel of local professionals, including Diana Syznal, president of the Springfield Regional Chamber; Michele Goldberg, vice president of Marketing for the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau; and Xiomara Albán DeLobato, chief of staff for the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council (EDC). The panel will discuss the many ways young professionals are drawn to the Western Mass. region, the challenges that command their attention, and how the community can work together to make Greater Springfield a better place to work, live, and thrive. Advance registration is required; admission is free for YPS members and $10 for non-members.

YPS will then host its ‘Throwback’ Third Thursday membership drive and board alumni night, hosted by former YPS board members Amie Miarecki and Alfonso Santaniello. Presented by the Westfield Starfires with support from America’s Box Choice and LiftTruck Parts & Service, the event will feature discounted membership rates, available exclusively on the night of the networking event. The membership drive begins at 5:30 p.m. and is free and open to anyone who wishes to attend.

Former YPS board of directors members are encouraged to attend the event early for a cocktail hour from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. to celebrate the 15th anniversary of YPS. The champagne toast will be sponsored by Sumner & Toner Insurance Agency Inc. and NRG Real Estate. Advance registration is requested.

“YPS events help retain individuals who are enthusiastic about the future of the community and their personal endeavors,” YPS President Heather Clark said. “YPS is here to exchange ideas, share common interests, and cultivate membership to serve as local leaders of tomorrow. We’re hopeful that our monthly events will make it easier to make meaningful connections that will help local young professionals thrive.”

To register for either or both of YPS’ January events, visit www.springfieldyps.com/events. To sponsor an event, email [email protected].

HOLYOKE — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will bring joy to the holiday season with its SantaCon networking event on Thursday, Dec. 15 at various locations in downtown Springfield, including BarKaya, Jackalope Restaurant, Dewey’s Lounge, and White Lion Brewing, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

SantaCon will focus on building community through supporting and encouraging young professionals to become more involved in their local communities by spreading holiday cheer. The event encourages attendees to dress in Santa- and holiday-themed costumes, supporting camaraderie and connection this holiday season.

The SantaCon event is free for YPS members and $10 for non-members. Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped, unused toy to contribute to a toy drive hosted by Springfield’s Gray House, which helps neighbors experiencing hardships by providing food, clothing, and educational services. The event will kick off at BarKaya (278 Worthington St.) at 5:30 p.m.

Throughout the holiday season, YPS also encourages volunteerism through its partnership with the Springfield Rotary Club by supporting Springfield’s Friends of the Homeless (FOTH) chapter. Volunteers can sign up to assist in serving food at the FOTH Worthington Street shelter location in Springfield by registering at www.springfieldmarotary.org/events/calendar.

“YPS events help retain individuals who are enthusiastic about the future of the community and their personal endeavors,” YPS President Heather Clark said. “YPS is here to exchange ideas, share common interests, and cultivate membership to serve as local leaders of tomorrow. We’re hopeful that our monthly events will make it easier to make meaningful connections that will help local young professionals thrive.”

To register for SantaCon, visit www.springfieldyps.com/events.

HOLYOKE — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will kick off the season of giving with its inaugural Friendsgiving event on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at Holyoke’s Divine Theatre at Gateway City Arts from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

YPS’ Friendsgiving event will focus on building community, one connection at a time, through supporting and encouraging young professionals to become more involved in their local communities. Sponsored by NWS Fast Pitch, Postgame Amateurs Podcast, and DDS Acoustical Specialties, the event will feature a structured time for networking, a buffet of heavy appetizers and beverages, and community table seating to help foster new connections.

Raffle prizes will be auctioned off at the event, featuring gift-cards, baskets, and certificates from Ron Lemelin Photography, Girls Inc. of the Valley, Misty City Windows, Nuclear Crayon Tattoo, and Aura Day Spa.

The Friendsgiving event is free for YPS members, and members are encouraged to bring a friend for free. Non-members may purchase one $10 admission and bring a friend for free. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance by clicking here.

Throughout the giving season, YPS encourages volunteerism through its partnership with the Springfield Rotary Club by supporting Springfield’s Friends of the Homeless (FOTH) chapter. Volunteers can sign up to assist in serving food at the FOTH Worthington Street shelter location in Springfield by clicking here.

“Events like Friendsgiving will help retain individuals who are enthusiastic about the future of the community and their personal endeavors,” YPS President Heather Clark said. “YPS is here to exchange ideas, share common interests, and cultivate membership to serve as local leaders of tomorrow. We’re hopeful that our monthly events will make it easier to make meaningful connections that will help local young professionals thrive.”

HOLYOKE — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will host its signature Third Thursday event series at Back Room Bar & Grill in Agawam on Thursday, Sept. 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The networking event will support and encourage young professionals to become more involved and invested in their local communities. As the unofficial kickoff gathering of this year’s Big E, there will be a Big E-themed door-prize raffle basket as well as complimentary appetizers courtesy of Back Room.

“Events like this will help retain individuals who are enthusiastic about the future of the community and their personal endeavors,” YPS President Heather Clark said. “YPS is here to exchange ideas, share common interests, and cultivate membership to serve as local leaders of tomorrow. We’re hopeful that our monthly events will make it easier to make meaningful connections that will help local young professionals thrive.”

Springfield YPS concentrates its efforts on business and career development, networking, social and cultural involvement, and community activism. Its diverse membership comes from a wide range of professions and backgrounds united by a commitment to make Springfield a better place to work, live, play, and stay.

The Back Room Bar & Grill is located at 827 Springfield St. in Agawam. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance. Registration is free for members and $10 for non-members. To register, visit springfieldyps.com/events.

SPRINGFIELD — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will hold its annual Adult Field Day on Saturday, Aug. 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., celebrating friendly competition, meaningful networking, and minute-to-win-it-style games for prizes and bragging rights.

The community-building day, hosted by Train for Life and 413 Athletic Center and presented by Canna Provisions, will take place at 413 Athletic Training Center, 340 McKinstry Ave., Suite 250, Chicopee. YPS members and non-members are welcome. Registration is $100 per team of four. Advance registration is required.

The event aims to provide an opportunity for local young professionals to gather in teams for a friendly competition, networking with other professionals while competing in relay races, tug-of-war, and many more games. Athletic ability is not required, but a desire to have fun is.

HOLYOKE — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will host dynamic events throughout the summer beginning with its July Third Thursday event in partnership with the Hampshire County Young Professionals (HCYP) at the Boathouse in South Hadley on July 21 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Next, on Aug. 18, the Third Thursday networking event will take place at Towne Taproom in Agawam, also from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

On July 21 at the Boathouse, both cocktails and appetizers will be available for attendees, along with beautiful views of the Connecticut River and meaningful networking opportunities with a diverse group of young professionals from across the Valley. July’s Third Thursday event is free for both YPS members and HCYP members, and $10 for non-members.

On Aug. 18 at Towne Taproom, attendees will enjoy fresh food, a trending local craft-beer selection, eclectic cocktails, live entertainment, and networking among peers. August’s Third Thursday event is free for YPS members and $10 for non-members.

Additional event details and registration information for both networking events can be found at www.springfieldyps.com/events.

HOLYOKE — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will host its annual Great Golf Escape tournament at Twin Hills Country Club in Longmeadow on Monday, April 25.

YPS aims to engage the younger demographic in career development, networking, community involvement, recreational and social activities, and more. The cost for this event is $125 for YPS members, $500 for a YPS member foursome team captain, $135 for non-members, and $540 for a non-member foursome team captain.

Check-in begins at 9 a.m. There will be prizes and a poker challenge throughout the event. The first-place team will also be able to select a charitable organization to receive a donation from YPS. Registration includes lunch, post-golf dinner, and giveaways. Members can register for the event by clicking here.

This event is open to the public. However, YPS members will receive a free mulligan, entry into the door-prize raffle, and more. They’ll be offering golfers on-course hospitality, including ice-cream samples from Batch Ice Cream, sponsored by LiftTruck Parts & Service, and craft beer samples from Leadfoot Brewing.

Major sponsors for this event include PeoplesBank (presenting sponsor), F45 Riverdale, Marcotte Ford, and the John Glover Insurance Agency.

“This tournament is a wonderful way for the young professional community to connect, while enjoying a great day of golf,” YPS President Heather Clark said. “Now in its 14th year, YPS looks forward to continuing the Great Escape tradition for years to come.

Foursomes and sponsorships are still available by visiting springfieldyps.com/golf or e-mailing [email protected].

HOLYOKE — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) recently welcomed 14 new board members.

As Springfield YPS continues to concentrate its efforts on business and career development, networking, social and cultural involvement, and community activism, its diverse membership comes from a wide range of professions and backgrounds united by a commitment to make Springfield a better place to work, live, play, and stay.

New board members include Nikai Fondon of the “She Did That!” podcast, Tyler Hadley of DDS Acoustical Specialties, Kara Bombard of Performance Foodservice, Isabella Brady-Prankus of the Gray House, Julie Fruscio of Dominion Dealer Solutions, Russ Kelly of LUSO Federal Credit Union, Emily Burr of PeoplesBank, Christopher Scuderi of Charter Oak Wealth Partners, Jessica Colson of Girls Inc. of the Pioneer Valley, Drew McConaha of Train for Life, Stefany Scliopou of Elms College, Kara Sotolotto of LiftTruck Parts & Service Inc., Lauren Martin of The Markens Group, and Alaina Macaulay of the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst.

The new board members join existing board members Jack Yvon of Charter Oak Financial, Melissa Cuzzone of EBS Insurance Brokers, Ashley Batlle-Ramos of Beauty Batlles Lounge, along with Andrew Mankus of UMass Dining, treasurer; Amie Miarecki of Christopher Heights of Belchertown, immediate past president; and Heather Clark of the Baystate Health Foundation, president.

“It’s an exciting time to be part of YPS,” Clark said. “Having such a robust board of directors will further our ability to provide more quality events and professional-development opportunities throughout Greater Springfield.”

HOLYOKE — The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will host its signature Third Thursday event series at Fred Astaire Dance Studio in West Springfield on Thursday, Feb. 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Presented by event sponsor Canna Provisions, the networking event will support and encourage young professionals to become more involved and invested in their local communities.

February’s Third Thursday event will include a 30-minute ballroom-dance lesson, networking with fellow young professionals, complimentary snacks, samples from Hardwick Vineyard & Winery, and more. Guests do not need a partner or take a lesson to attend.

“Events like this will help retain individuals who are enthusiastic about the future of the community and their personal endeavors,” said YPS President Heather Clark. “YPS is here to exchange ideas, share common interests, and cultivate membership to serve as local leaders of tomorrow. We’re hopeful that our monthly events will make it easier to make meaningful connections that will help local young professionals thrive.”

YPS concentrates its efforts on business and career development, networking, social and cultural involvement, and community activism. Its diverse membership comes from a wide range of professions and backgrounds united by a commitment to make Greater Springfield a better place to work, live, play, and stay.

Fred Astaire Dance Studio is located at 54 Wayside Ave. in West Springfield. Pre-registration is not required, but highly recommended. Registration is free for members and $10 for non-members. Click here to register.

HOLYOKE — On Tuesday, Nov. 16, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) will present a Leadership Luncheon at Venture X Holyoke, sponsored by Elms College.

The featured speaker will be Matt Bannister, senior vice president of Marketing & Corporate Responsibility for PeoplesBank. He will discuss his career, share his advice for young professionals, and offer an opportunity for questions from the audience. He will also highlight the importance of community involvement and how it can increase brand awareness, establish a positive reputation, and help grow a business.

A light lunch will be included. Please indicate if you have any food allergies or prefer a vegetarian option. The cost is free for YPS members and $10 for non-members. Parking is free. Pre-registration is required by clicking here.