In an unprecedented move, the Nominating Committee convened earlier this year to slate the 2024 President of the Oklahoma City Young Professionals (OKCYP) organization. After the Slate was challenged, an election occurred. Sam Marshall, the newly elected President for 2024, is gearing up to steer the group toward new horizons. We sat down with Sam to learn more about his vision, goals, and what's in store for OKCYP next year.
Sam Marshall's journey with OKCYP began in 2020 when he joined as a member. Fast forward to 2024, and he's now the first elected President in the organization's history. When asked about his initial reaction to the election results, Sam shared, "I was incredibly honored to be elected by my peers to serve as President in 2024. Outside of votes, it was inspiring to receive words of encouragement and support from various members and to see the confidence people had in my ability to lead and belief in our vision for 2024."
Sam has had a front-row seat to OKCYP's growth since 2020, and one aspect that stands out to him is the exponential increase in membership. "Since joining in 2020, membership growth is the largest growth I’ve witnessed. It’s been amazing to see members join, invest in the group, and then go and tell their friends and network about OKCYP. The brand of OKCYP has grown so much primarily due to word-of-mouth advertising from membership."
But it's not just membership growth that Sam has observed. He's delighted to see OKCYP investing in civic engagement and education. "Outside of membership growth, I’ve enjoyed how our group has invested in learning about civic engagement. The YP Day at the Capitol has been a well-attended and popular event that educates and engages aspects of our city and state in ways we haven’t in the past."
Leadership often comes with sage advice from those who've been there before. Sam shared, "Two past chairs have been very kind to reach out, congratulate me, and share some of their experiences with me. The best advice I’ve received is that you can’t implement every idea you have all at once. Focus on key changes and put all your resources towards that goal. It’s better to do one or two things well than ten poorly."
As Sam steps into his role as President, his vision for OKCYP is clear. "Since I announced I was running for President, my vision has been simple: Connect with those above us, Support those around us, and Invest in those below us." This threefold approach aims to strengthen OKCYP's impact on its members and the community.
"In a nutshell," Sam explains, "that means better connecting with established and experienced business and civic leaders through mentorship, lunch and learns, sponsorship opportunities, and YP Day at the Capitol. We'll support the business and goals of OKCYP membership by encouraging referral-based conversations, connecting potential referral partners, and providing learning and development opportunities. And lastly, investing in our community and new or soon-to-be professionals who are just starting or about to start their careers."
Sam also expressed his excitement about working alongside Justin Smith, the Vice President for 2024. "I am ecstatic to work alongside Justin next year. I have known Justin for 3 years and served with him on the OKCYP Board of Directors for 2 years. He has served OKCYP well, and I have complete confidence he’ll continue to do so as VP."
Sam leaves a message for all OKCYP members: "I truly believe a leader’s biggest tool is honest feedback. No organization or leader is perfect, and everyone has blind spots. I would encourage all members that feedback, no matter how blunt, is deeply needed and wanted in our OKCYP board. Strong opinions on how things can be done differently show that people care and are invested. Please don’t be afraid to share your frustrations as they could be exactly what is needed."
Sam also extends his gratitude: "Lastly, I just want to thank everyone who has invested in OKCYP. Our group is special primarily because of the people in it and the relationships made from it. I look forward to an exciting 2024!” With Sam Marshall at the helm, OKCYP is set to embark on a year of growth, connection, and impact, and the future certainly looks bright for young professionals in Oklahoma City.
In a city teeming with emerging young professionals, one name shines brightly as a beacon of influence and inspiration - Constanzia Nizza. Constanzia has been ranked the Most Influential Young Professional in Oklahoma City for the second consecutive year.
Let's delve into her journey, motivations, and aspirations.
Constanzia's professional path has been firmly rooted in public service. Since August 2021, she has served as the Chief of Staff at the Office of Juvenile Affairs, a vital agency dedicated to creating pathways for the success of Oklahoma's youth through prevention and treatment. Her role, centered on government affairs, involves tireless advocacy at the Capitol, striving to bring about positive change in the lives of young people.
Outside the realm of public service, Constanzia finds joy in simple pleasures. Brunch dates with her husband and quality time spent with their dog, August, top her list of favorite hobbies. August, a diligent canine, has even earned his Canine Good Citizen certificate and will soon embark on a mission to brighten local libraries with his mom and dad.
Amid the 2020 lockdowns, when isolation seemed to prevail, Constanzia embarked on a quest to connect with like-minded individuals. Her online search led her to the Oklahoma City Young Professionals (OKCYP), beginning a remarkable journey. Motivated by the words of Terrance Craft during his acceptance speech at the 2020 Horizon Awards, where he described OKCYP as a community of welcoming, intelligent, and kind individuals, Constanzia decided to explore if they could be "her people," too. The answer was a resounding yes.
For Constanzia, influence isn't about accolades or recognition; it's about positively impacting the future. It's a commitment to leaving the world better than she found it.
Constanzia's favorite inspirational quote, "Right now is always the right time to do the right thing," underscores her unwavering dedication to positive change, emphasizing that the moment to make a difference is always present.
In Constanzia's life, Rachel Holt stands out as a catalyst for change. While traveling together in southwest Oklahoma, Rachel's story of her husband pursuing law school while working full-time shattered Constanzia's perception of what was achievable. Rachel's unwavering belief in her abilities inspired Constanzia to embark on her law school journey, studying for the LSAT and applying to law school.
Constanzia's influence extends beyond her career and personal aspirations. Her ultimate goal is to motivate others to explore and serve the Oklahoma City community. If her influence encourages individuals to learn more about the city and inspires them to serve others, Constanzia believes that would be a monumental achievement.
As Constanzia Nizza continues her impactful journey, Oklahoma City's future shines a little brighter, thanks to her unwavering dedication to positive change and her vision for a more vibrant and connected community.
#4
Abigail Ogle KOCO TV
#1 Constanzia Nizza Office of Juvenile Affairs
#2 Taelor Connell Polston Tax
#6 J D Baker Cortado Ventures
#3 Terrance Craft Crafty Communications
Michele Walker, and Victor Castillo first appear in the Top 10.
#5 Bailey Perkins Wright Boeing
#12
Alexandra Coleman-Young Boy Scouts of America
#15
Shiann Copeland Remerge of Oklahoma City
#17
Raegan Mach Parent Promise
#11 William Blake Vesta Foundation Solutions
#13 Justin Smith BancFirst
#14 Shanna Garrett
Sold By Shanna
#16
Armando Perez Great Plains Bank
#18 Chris Reed First Bank & Trust
#22
Tommie Johnson Oklahoma County Sheriff
Ranked at number 23 on this year's list of the Most Influential Young Professionals of Oklahoma City, Ashley Warlick is a true Norman native with a passion for her community. Ashley is a member of the Accounting & Finance Women’s Alliance OKC Chapter and a National Foundation Board Member, championing the cause of professional women in finance. Simultaneously, she's actively involved in the Women in Commercial Real Estate (CREW) as co-programming chair, spotlighting women and emerging leaders in the commercial real estate sector. Her passion for real estate extends beyond the boardroom; Ashley undertakes projects to flip multifamily units for the Airbnb market in her free time, further investing in Oklahoma City.
Q: How do you define ‘being influential’?
A: Being influential means having the capacity to make a significant and positive difference in the lives of others. It involves the ability to communicate effectively and empathetically to inspire people to act on making positive changes. An influential person possesses a compelling vision, strong values, and the credibility to lead by example.
Q: What is one of your favorite inspirational quotes?
A: I scorched the earth with my talent, and I let my light shine. - André Leon Talley
Q: Who has been influential in your own life? How?
A: Throughout my life, my mother has been and still is the most impactful person. She weaves love and strength into every moment, guides me to embrace challenges, and encourages me to stop and smell the roses! She has grown me into the person I am t d
#25
Juliana Lopez OKC Latina
#28
Bradley Kirouac
#26 Madison Melon Oklahoma County Public Defenders Office
#24
Dr Brittany & Preston Cook Native Chiropractic
#27
Blake Bullard OSSO Sports & Social
#29
Daisy Munoz Alliance for Economic Development
#30
Nick Tyler Fleske
Juliana Lopez, a dynamic force in Oklahoma's Latinx/e community, has earned her place at #25 on this year's Most Influential Young Professionals List. Juliana is a dedicated community organizer and social media consultant who spends her days uplifting and engaging with the Latinx/e community of Oklahoma through her organization, OKC Latina. In addition to her impactful work, Juliana runs her own social media consulting company, where she helps clients navigate the ever-changing digital landscape.
Q: How do you define ‘being influential’?
A: Being influential means people are looking to me for my opinion. This can be something small like where to go for the best-iced coffee in OKC or something as important as what organizations they should support with their hard-earned money. Anyone can be influential; it's all about how we use the power that comes with the influence.
Q: What is one of your favorite inspirational quotes?
A: Instead of quotes from strangers, I have printed out texts from my mentor taped up to my office wall. When I find myself at a loss or a crossroads, I can look to her words and remember that I am a badass and am completely worthy of all good things that come my way.
Q: Who has been influential in your own life? How?
A: I learned to be a hard worker from my parents. They’re two of the hardest-working individuals you’ll ever meet. Rachael Leonhart is my mentor and friend and has shown
#37 Aaron Phillips AP Technology
Oklahoma Supreme Court
#36 Sean Rose Victim's Impact Panel
Jessie Valadez Arnall Family Foundation
Oklahoma House of Representatives
#39 Casey Tutor Brix Realty Group
OK Department of R h bili i S i
#35
Kyle Impson Chickasaw Nation
#40
Abi Ray Hartzog Conger Cason
#41
Alexxander Pfeiffer Wyatt Poindexter
#42 Benjamin Tubbs VA Home Team
#38
Andrew Davis Heartland
Trey Lewis, a dedicated Rehabilitation of the Blind Specialist, has secured the #30 spot on this year's Most Influential Young Professionals List. In his role, Trey serves as a beacon of hope and support for individuals who have recently lost their vision or have been visually impaired for years. He aims to empower them with the skills they need to lead independent lives and pursue their professional aspirations.
Trey's unwavering commitment to his profession and community makes him a truly influential young professional. His presence on this year's list is a testament to his dedication to helping others overcome challenges and embrace a life of independence and opportunity.
Q: How did you hear about OKCYP?
A: I learned about it from a Google search. I used to live in Tulsa and heard of Tulsa Young Professionals. Some of my friends were members of Edmond Young Professionals, and I thought it sounded like a great organization and wanted to see if OKC had a similar group.
Q: What motivated you to join OKCYP?
A: I wanted to grow as a leader and meet other motivated young Professionals in the OKC Area.
Q: How do you define ‘being influential’?
A: I believe that an influential person inspires others. They see the good in people and are optimistic.
Daniel Seitz, from Branson, MO, has secured his spot at #32 on this year's Most Influential Young Professionals List. After relocating to Oklahoma City in 2019, Daniel quickly impacted the local scene. He began his journey as an account executive at Jones PR, where he honed his skills in the fast-paced world of public relations. His dedication and expertise were noticed, and soon, he was offered the position of Communications Director for the Oklahoma House of Representatives. In addition to his thriving career in politics and government, Daniel is a passionate sports enthusiast and comic book collector.
Q: How did you hear about OKCYP?
A: I found OKCYP while searching for civic organizations to get involved with. I had seen some posts on LinkedIn about the organization but joined in the spring of this year.
Q: What motivated you to join OKCYP?
A: I wanted to be involved in an organization of like-minded, similarly experienced individuals passionate about serving our community. I firmly believe that young professionals are not just the leaders of tomorrow; we are today's leaders.
Q: Who has been influential in your own life? How?
A: My father, Brian, has been most influential in my life outside of Jesus Christ. He has helped guide and direct me towards a career path he knew would fit my skill set and supported me at every step of my journey. My ultimate privilege came in 2020 when I could bring it full circle, using the skills I had cultivated in campaign management to
#46 Ryan Dunn Ryan Dunn Realty
#48
Sarah Littlefield Quest Pediatric Therapy
#49
Stephanie McCord Oklahoma Ethics Commission
#50
Anthony Hernandez Rivera Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General
Front Row: Left - Michele Walker, Constanzia Nizza, Taelor Connell (President), Briza Ibanez, Arilla Broadus (Vice President)
Back Row: Left - Armando Perez, Neil Tate (Membership Officer), Eliud Villarreal (Immediate Past President), Terrance Craft, Sam Marshall (Treasurer / Secretary), Rhett Schuman, Justin Smith
