HYPE Announces 2026 Leadership Committee as Organization Marks 20 Years
4/1/2026 – Hartford, CT | Hartford Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs (HYPE), an initiative of the MetroHartford Alliance, is entering its 20th year of supporting and engaging young professionals across the Hartford Region.
This year, HYPE welcomes a new cohort of young professionals to its Leadership Committee, chaired by Amir Johnson, Director of External Relations and Programs at The iQuilt Partnership. These ambassadors represent a range of industries and backgrounds and share a commitment to contributing to Hartford’s continued growth.
The committee works with HYPE’s Executive Director Lauren Zevetchin to shape programming that offers practical professional development, networking opportunities, and community engagement. Retaining young talent is essential to Hartford’s long-term strength, and HYPE’s ambassadors support that work by offering honest insight into what early career professionals need and serving as a collective voice for young talent across the region.
“This year’s ambassadors reflect the diversity and energy of Hartford’s young professional community,” noted Zevetchin. “They include Connecticut natives and newcomers, ambitious leaders and committed Hartford supporters, all bringing different backgrounds and perspectives. What unites them is a shared commitment to strengthening the region and ensuring young professionals feel welcomed, supported, and able to see a future for themselves here.”
2026 HYPE Leadership Committee
HYPE Chair: Amir Johnson, The iQuilt Partnership
Alexa Bade, City of Hartford
Angela Pannesco, Travelers
Ana Pope, Nassau Financial Group
Katie Force, Oak View Group
Kaleigh Scarfo, Nassau Financial Group
Kimberly Alexander, City of Hartford Housing Authority
Malaika Dewes, Trinity Health of New England
Matt Mocarsky, Travelers
Melina Floyd, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut
Michael James, Stanley Black & Decker
Sam Tapper, Hartford’s Camp Courant
Saskia Butler, University of Hartford
For more information or to learn about future opportunities to get involved, contact HYPE’s Executive Director: lzevetchin@metrohartford.com and visit https://www.hypehartford.com/.