To the editor:

Thank you to The Journal for highlighting the positive experience of Network New Ulm Youth (NNUY) for juniors in the ISD 88, NUACS, MVL and River Bend education systems.

Let us include some background information on the program for your reader’s benefit and appreciation.

The concept of a youth version of the New Ulm Chamber’s Network New Ulm adult program (which started in 1997) happened approximately 16 years ago. The idea came up during conversations around the future of New Ulm and how to engage and connect with our youth and develop their leadership.

The program is facilitated by Chamber Member volunteers who faithfully lead this annual program from participant selection in early May of one year to the graduation ceremony held the next April, which was highlighted in The Journal on April 27, 2016. The volunteer committee organizes each of the six days that include fun team building activities as well as tours at local businesses, government offices, attractions or locations of historical or community interest.

The current committee members include: Carla Walden-MVTL, Jackie Farasyn-Mathiowetz Construction, Jennifer Neubauer-CliftonLarsonAllen, Jennifer Brehmer-New Ulm Medical Center, Karen Traulich-American Artstone Company, Kathy VanRoekel-NU-Telecom, Lisa Roeder-Frandsen Bank & Trust, Maria Anderson-Citizens Bank Minnesota, Naomi Stewart-AgQuest Financial, Phil Schenck-Grace Community Church, Rebecca Huisken-Drs. Akre & Clark, Shannon Hillesheim-Bank Midwest, Shari Fischer-Fischer Law, PA, and Shawn Jakes-Comcast Cable. Stacy Merkel-Citizens Bank Minnesota serves as the current Program Coordinator.

Financially, the program continues through the support of the Chamber, New Ulm Area Foundation, ISD 88 Community Education and fundraising efforts by the participants.

The Network New Ulm Youth experience is one way that the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce connects local business leaders with our youth encouraging them to be engaged in the community they live in, develop their leadership capacity and envision a New Ulm they would be proud of. The Chamber of Commerce also hosts the annual Career Expo for high school sophomores to explore careers at over 50 New Ulm area businesses and higher education opportunities.

The Network New Ulm Youth program is a winner on so many levels for the students who participate, for the committee members who continue to support this initiative with their enthusiasm and energy and for the community, giving space to the engaged and informed voice of our youth and next generation of leaders.

Audra ShanemanPresident & CEO

New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce

Shari Fischer

Past Chamber Board Chair & NNUY Committee Member

Fischer Law, PA