Meet 2020 YPAL Award Winner, Shannon!

Shannon Siders

YPAL Member since: 2017

Hometown: Dayton, OH

Where do you work?: Kwantek

Civic and/or philanthropic efforts?
Before I moved back to Louisville, a big part of me was missing, because I did not feel connected to my community. I made it a priority to become engaged immediately upon moving back, and even started signing up for YPAL events before I was physically here. I’ve had the honor of serving on the YPAL Board as Director of Technology (FY 2017 – 2018), as well as an Ambassador (FY 2014 – 2015). I also currently serve on the Louisville Girls Leadership Board, and the Bellarmine Alumni Board. Since 2015, I have been an avid supporter of Family & Children’s Place, a local nonprofit that helps in the prevention, stoppage, and recovery from child abuse. I was a member of their inaugural ambassador group and was named Volunteer of the Year in 2017.

How do you strengthen our community’s impact through connecting others?
I pride myself in being a connector, and someone who is always willing to help others find what, or who, they need to succeed. In my role as Student Success Coordinator for Code Louisville from 2016 – 2019, I helped connect hundreds of adults in Louisville with the people and resources necessary to launch exciting new careers in technology. Whether it’s attending a networking event, reaching out to someone on LinkedIn, or participating in alumni events at my alma mater, I’m always excited to expand my network. I’ve participated in numerous mentoring programs to help aid in the success of Bellarmine graduates, and try to use a connector mindset in problem-solving whenever possible.

What has been the most impactful part about being involved with YPAL?
YPAL has been a major part of both my personal and professional development since joining six years ago. Completing the Emerging Leaders Program was especially impactful because it challenged me to really examine who I was as a leader versus who I was striving to be. The program helped me to focus more on leveraging my strengths than worrying about my weaknesses, and to embrace my talents and passions for what they are. Serving on the board shortly after allowed me to put those lessons to use while connecting with even more YP’s in the city.

A huge thank you to our Sponsors for your continued investment and partnership in Louisville’s Young Professional community.