The Pine Belt News and Signature Magazine is proud to announce the inaugural class of “20 Under 40.” The initiative was conceived to recognize the best and brightest in this very important demographic, representing the future of our community. Too often talented young people leave the Pine Belt for larger cities with seemingly unlimited opportunities. Honoring those young people who elect to make the Pine Belt their home is the mission of “20 Under 40.”
The public was invited to nominate deserving residents late in 2021, leading to over 80 nominations. The final decisions were so difficult that the selection committee could not narrow the final list to 20, resulting in an inaugural class of 21. The winners represent entrepreneurship, finance, education, health care, and other segments of business.
“Reading about the accomplishments of these individuals was truly humbling,” said Christina Pierce, publisher of The Pine Belt News and Signature Magazine. “They are amazing people, and we should feel proud to live here and very optimistic about the future of the Pine Belt.”
This year’s class is, in no particular order:
Shawn Harris
Chandra Crane
Nicole Ruhnke
Samantha McCain
Nick Alexander
Betsy Mercier
Erin Lambert Dornan
Yolanda Morris
Chase Blankenship
Anna Rush
Heather Thompson
James Bowman
Josh Young
Tom Smith
Olivia Miley
Nicholas Blake
Callison Richardson
Ariale Nelson
Danyella Berry-Terrell
Dean Pace
Ladonna Townsend
A presentation of awards will be held on Tuesday, April 26, from 6 pm to 8pm at Southern Oaks House and Gardens. Tickets are available at $25 each and include cocktails and appetizers. To order tickets, please call 601-268-2331.
