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Two Findlay Staff Members Nominated for 20 Under 40 Award

Two University of Findlay staff members have been nominated for the Toledo area 20 Under 40 Award. Maggie Morehart, assistant director of the Center for Career and Professional Development, and Shayna Pothast, part-time faculty of criminal justice, join the impressive […] The post Two Findlay Staff Members Nominated for 20 Under 40 Award appeared first on Findlay Newsroom.

Two University of Findlay staff members have been nominated for the Toledo area 20 Under 40 Award. Maggie Morehart, assistant director of the Center for Career and Professional Development, and Shayna Pothast, part-time faculty of criminal justice, join the impressive list of nominees for this prestigious distinction.

Each year since 1996, 20 young community leaders receive the 20 Under 40 Award. The leadership program showcases dynamic leaders from Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan who are under the age of 40.  It also celebrates the individuals who have made the decision to remain or return to the communities where they live and work to make an impact.

For Morehart, she appreciates the breadth of dedication and work that is displayed through her fellow nominees – past and present.

“It’s an honor to be among the nominees for this award. The candidates represent a diverse group of accomplished professionals in our region, and it’s encouraging to see how they’ve contributed to our communities and continue to give back,” Morehart said. “There are so many people going above and beyond their basic job duties to support their organizations, volunteer in their communities, serve on nonprofit boards, and keep learning and growing.”

In addition to honoring the recipients, the 20 Under 40 program is intended to help motivate young people throughout our area to become community leaders. This especially resonates with Pothast, who works closely with students as a part-time faculty member and leads the Women in Philanthropy initiative within UF’s Advancement department.

“I’m truly honored by this nomination and grateful for the people and experiences that have shaped my journey. Through my work in philanthropy and education, I’ve seen how empowering others, especially women and students, can spark lasting change,” Pothast said. “It’s inspiring to be recognized alongside individuals who are leading with purpose and heart in their own communities. I’ve found the most meaningful work happens when people come together to make a difference.”

Each year, nominations are sought for potential 20 Under 40 candidates. All nominated individuals are asked to submit a profile. From these candidates, an independent panel of judges selects 20 leaders to receive the award each fall. Judges consist of past honorees and community leaders.

The 2025 candidates will be celebrated, and winners will be announced during a recognition program on Monday, November 3. The event begins at 5:45 p.m. with a networking session before the awards ceremony at 7:00 p.m. For more info about the celebration event and the program overall, visit the 20 Under 40 website.

In a typical year, approximately 200 candidate profiles are received, making 20 Under 40 one of the most coveted award programs in the region. Collectively, 20 Under 40 has recognized over 580 artists, entrepreneurs, doctors, educators, nonprofit executives, public figures, business leaders, behind-the-scenes contributors, and more.

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