Winners of 2024’s 15 Under 40 were recognized at a special reception in their honor Thursday, Jan. 18, in the Blue Sage Barn at Prairiewood. Among the list of honorees is Sarah Duggan, Community Relations Director at Meadowlark. 

“We are incredibly honored to recognize such a distinguished group,” said Jason Smith, president and CEO of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, in a press release. “Our membership has been committed to engaging young professionals for the past several years and we feel very strongly that one way to engage is to recognize achievement.”

Winners were nominated from Riley, Pottawatomie, and Geary counties. Nominees were then asked to complete an application that outlined their achievements in their profession, as well as work in the community. From the nearly 75 nominees and more than 50 applicants, an appointed committee selected the final 15. To be eligible for nomination, individuals had to meet the following criteria: be over the age of 18 and under the age of 40 as of Nov. 30, 2023; be employed in the greater Manhattan region; and exhibit qualities as an up-and-coming star in their profession, leadership, and community service. 

Sarah joined the Meadowlark team in January 2011. Prior to accepting her current position as Community Relations Director in May 2013, Sarah served in other roles including Hospitality Leader, Executive Assistant, Development Coordinator, and Marketing Director. In December 2009, Sarah graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations.

Among other community involvement endeavors, Sarah is a graduate of the Leadership Manhattan Class of 2019 and currently serves as the Chair for the Leadership Manhattan board. Sarah is active member of First United Methodist Church. Sarah is originally from Ottawa, Kan., and she now lives in Manhattan with her husband, Edward, and their three daughters, Murphy, Eilish, and Edie. 

“I am honored to be included in this year’s group of community leaders for the 15 Under 40 class of young professionals,” Sarah said. “Getting involved in the community through as a leader and has an active participant creates a sense of belonging within myself. Being a leader in my community is important to me because I believe I can help create a place with others feel they belong, as well.”

Meadowlark is blessed to have Sarah as an organizational leader. Join us in congratulating her on this great honor!