Rochester Professionals Under 40

Happy Holidays Rochester Professionals Under 40 and friends! Join us for our next networking Monday December 9th from 5-8pm at Lock 32 brewing in Pittsford! You won’t want to miss an evening of networking and sharing some good laughs this holiday season! https://www.lock32brew.com Light hors d’Oeuvres will be served and the bar is a cash bar. Networking and check in will begin starting at 5pm, and event kick off will be at 6pm. Event hosts are Nicole P. and Quentin Marsh! We are looking for sponsors of this event. View sponsorship packages in the ticketing section if interested in sponsoring! Any questions please message us! Admission is $10. Come join us to meet other young professionals in the Rochester area and celebrate the Holidays! All are welcome! Buy tickets here: https://lnkd.in/eC6fDTD6

Today's member spotlight is the compassionate Alyssa Matz, LMSW! Alyssa Matz, LMSW, is a passionate advocate for mental health and well-being in the Rochester area. Known for her work at Browncroft Community Church and her contract role as a Mental Health Therapist at Rochester Institute of Technology, Alyssa’s career exemplifies compassion and faith-driven service. Alyssa received both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Social Work from Roberts Wesleyan University. Since then, she has worked to create positive change, particularly for those facing mental health challenges. During her 3.5 years at Browncroft, Alyssa became a trusted resource for individuals and families, offering one-on-one counseling, leading support groups, and facilitating mental health workshops. She worked with diverse groups and people of all ages, from children to senior citizens. Her ability to connect across generations and backgrounds was key to her success, especially in integrating mental health into the work of the church. She co-hosted the Why God Why podcast, engaging in vulnerable conversations around mental health, faith, and other current issues. Alyssa used her platform to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the church. Now at RIT, Alyssa provides mental health counseling to students navigating the challenges of university life. Whether dealing with academic stress, identity issues, or personal struggles, Alyssa’s holistic approach to wellness offers a compassionate, safe space for students to heal and grow. In addition, Alyssa’s creativity shines through, continuously using her gifts of writing and communication to spread hope to those around her. Her ability to communicate complex emotional topics in a relatable way has made her an influential voice in her community. Faith plays a central role in Alyssa’s life and work. Inspired by her belief that faith calls for action, she strives to be the hands and feet of God, showing compassion to those who are hurting. Her mission is to invest in the next generation, advocate for the marginalized, and promote overall mental wellness. Outside of her professional life, Alyssa enjoys traveling to new places and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and photography-hobbies that help her maintain her own mental health. She also runs a small business, selling nature-inspired shirts and stickers on Etsy. Alyssa is married to her college sweetheart, Ben, a fellow social worker who serves children and families in the Rochester area. Together, they share a deep commitment to serving others and making a positive impact. Looking ahead, Alyssa aspires to continue growing in her field, expand her clinical expertise, and eventually teach at a university. Above all, she hopes to be a light in a dark world; demonstrating that life can, and will, get better. Join us in congratulating Alyssa on today's member spotlight!

Today's member spotlight is accounting and finance expert Olga Kovaliov, CPA! Olga is a skilled accounting professional with extensive experience in business valuation and public accounting. Originally from Ukraine, Olga moved to the United States and graduated from Penfield High School in Rochester, NY. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting through a 2+2 program between Monroe Community College and SUNY Geneseo, and later completed an MBA in Accounting at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Olga began her career in public accounting as an Assurance Associate at Davie Kaplan after completing internships, including one with the Office of the New York State Comptroller. She obtained her CPA license shortly after starting her career in auditing. Following her time in public accounting, Olga transitioned to business valuations and has been with Empire Valuation Consultants for the past four years. Over this period, she has advanced from Valuation Consultant to Engagement Leader. Olga specializes in providing valuations for a wide array of purposes, including estate planning, gift tax reporting, corporate planning, and Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). She enjoys working with diverse clients and managing her own projects while collaborating with her team to deliver high-quality results on time. Olga is also deeply committed to giving back to her community. During her time at SUNY Geneseo, she volunteered as a tax preparer for the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. She has served on the Supervisory Committee for the Ukrainian Federal Credit Union in Rochester, NY, overseeing both internal and external audits, and currently serves as a member of the Credit Union’s Board of Directors. A dedicated advocate for the accounting profession, Olga holds several leadership roles within the Rochester Chapter of the New York State Society of CPAs (NYCPA - Rochester Chapter). As President-Elect, Education Committee Chair, and head of High School Student Outreach, she plays an active role in shaping the future of the profession. As the Chair of the Education Committee, Olga organizes an annual event to recognize outstanding local accounting students. She also leads outreach efforts to high school students, visiting classrooms to discuss the accounting profession and inspire the next generation of CPAs. Outside of work, Olga enjoys spending time with her family, including training in Tae Kwon Do with her father and sisters. She loves exploring local playgrounds, zoos, and museums with her young daughter. When time permits, she also enjoys reading and watching a good movie. Join us in congratulating Olga on today's well deserved member spotlight!

Today's member spotlight is the Employee Benefits Expert Andrew King! Andrew is an Employee Benefits Consultant for USI Insurance Services. Over the last 5 plus years Andrew has become passionate about helping businesses with their employee health benefits and navigating options within the marketplace. Andrew is a catalyst for creating strategic financial impact and ensuring his client’s benefit offerings are remaining competitive in their respective markets. Andrew was born and raised in Rochester New York and knows the importance of community and relationships. After graduating from Mendon High School, Andrew attended Monroe Community College before acquiring his Life, Accident & Health insurance license with Bryant & Stratton College. Andrew has volunteered with the Ronald McDonald House, Villa of Hope and the EDRAJT Holiday Christmas Display. Outside of volunteering Andrew is an avid hiker/backcountry camper, and enjoys golfing, tennis, and skiing. Join us in congratulating Andrew on today's member spotlight!

Today's member spotlight is the detail oriented Eva Yehl (Campanis), CPA! Eva grew up in the suburb of Chili in Rochester, NY. She graduated summa cum laude from SUNY Geneseo with a B.S. in Accounting. She began her career in public accounting, having had the opportunity for an internship in the field prior to graduation. She realized how much she enjoyed the teamwork that went along with auditing within a public accounting firm and the satisfaction of developing relationships with her clients and helping them succeed. Shortly after starting her career, she obtained her Certified Public Accountant license and has continued to grow her career in public accounting ever since! She has spent nearly eight years working at MMB + CO in their audit and assurance department, with clients ranging a wide variety of industries – Not-for-Profits, Charter Schools, Hotels, Contractors, Engineering Firms, Law Firms, etc. Her work with clients includes different levels of assurance engagements for client’s financial statements. A vast majority of these being audits that clients are required to have for various reasons ranging from state and federal regulations to bank or investor requirements. Eva works with her internal team to perform high quality and efficient engagements and works with her clients to meet their reporting deadlines and to help them balance efficiency and quality in their financial reporting and in turn those organizations can continue to successfully operate and strive for their goals. Eva is also dedicated to helping others grow and succeed in the profession. Since starting her professional career, she has been an active part of the onboarding of new associates to the firm and presenting their introductory training. She finds this to be a very rewarding experience to provide them with a base of knowledge and be a resource as they continue their career. She is an active member of the firm’s career coaching program, in which she has three team members that she mentors and provides guidance and advice as they move along in their careers. Eva is also a mentor for students participating in the SUNY Geneseo School of Business Excellence Mentoring Program. This program allows students the opportunity to have an alumni connect with them as a mentor working in their aspired profession. She has multiple students she meets with and provides guidance and advice to throughout the year. Eva is the current President of the Rochester Chapter of the NY State Society of CPA’s, previously having held the Vice President and President-Elect roles. She enjoys leading the Chapter and participating in the vast array of programs and events that the Chapter puts on and is committed to promoting the profession. When she’s not working, Eva enjoys going for long runs, traveling to new places, eating her husband’s wonderfully cooked meals, cuddling up with a good book and her cat, Ollie, and hanging out with her family and friends! Join us in congratulating Eva!

Today's member spotlight is activist Bijaya Khadka! Bijaya Khadka is a proud New American who dedicates himself to community activism and volunteerism to enhance living conditions for all. Currently working at Rochester Rehabilitation Center in the Employment Connection Department, Bijaya is also the Founder and President of House of Refugee USA and the Chair of the New Americans Advisory Council. His work in these roles has fostered meaningful connections across community groups, non-profits, and government agencies. Bijaya’s commitment to community service has earned him numerous honors, including a Service Achievement Award from President Joe Biden, a Proclamation from Senator Joseph Robach, the ESL Jefferson Award, and recognition as one of the Forty under 40. His dedication to positive change is evident in every endeavor, and he remains focused on building a more inclusive and supportive community. As Rochester’s first civilian public safety interview panelist, Bijaya volunteers by interviewing police candidates and making recommendations to the chief of police. He is also a regional council member on the NYS Hate and Bias Prevention Council under the New York State Division of Human Rights, a council led by the deputy governor. A community leader and speaker, Bijaya is the first in his family to attend and graduate from college. He is currently studying Organizational Leadership / Business Management at Roberts Wesleyan University, further honing his skills to serve his community. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and reading, continuously seeking inspiration to fuel his passion for community-building. Join us in congratulating Bijaya on today's member spotlight!

Today's member spotlight is business leader Michael Compton! As Vice President of Information Technology Solutions for The Summit Federal Credit Union, Mike Compton is a catalyst for strategic innovation and seamless technology integration. With a sharp focus on elevating both member and employee experiences, Mike thrives at the crossroads of leadership, technology, and transformation. Renowned for his passion in leadership, followership, and empathetic communication, he is committed to empowering teams to excel and driving organizations toward lasting success. Mike is a graduate of Empire State University and is a bit of a gear head, as well as an avid DIYer, driving his wife crazy with different weekend warrior home projects/. In addition to hosting the 'Leading The Way' podcast—where he delivers actionable insights on leadership, professional growth, and personal development—Mike recently published his debut book, The Leader The Follower. This book provides a fresh take on leadership and followership, equipping professionals at every level to hone their skills and advance their careers. Check out his podcast here: https://lnkd.in/dnMMebDp Join us in congratulating Mike on today's member spotlight!

We are looking for nominations for future Rochester Professionals Under 40 member spotlights! Membership is free! If you have a nomination please message us or comment below you have a nomination and we will contact you!

We had a memorable networking event last night at The Hideaway! We would like to thank keynote speaker Jenna D'Annunzio, MS, CPC! We also were happy to hear about East House from non profit speaker Leslie Alvarado-Fischer, LMSW! In addition, would would like to thank our sponsors and speaker Jason Minnamon, CEO of NuME Consulting and Supplements and the newly launching Wellness, Recovery, and Rejuvenation Centers! Lastly, we want to recognize and thank our fantastic event hosts Nicole P. and Quentin Marsh! Thank you to everyone who attended and connected with other professionals at the event!

Calling all young professionals and friends in Rochester, NY! Rochester Professionals Under 40 is hosting our upcoming networking event Monday October 28th from 5-8pm at The Hideaway. Join us for an evening of networking and hear from our keynote speaker Jenna D'Annunzio, MS, CPC! Our non profit speaker of will be Leslie Alvarado-Fischer, LMSW, Director of Admissions and FCM at East House! One of our sponsors and speakers is Jason Minnamon CEO of NuME Consulting and Supplements as well as the newly launching Wellness, Recovery, and Rejuvenation Centers. Light hors d’Oeuvres will be served and the bar is a cash bar. Networking and check in will begin starting at 5pm, and speakers will be at 6pm. Event hosts are Nicole P. and Quentin Marsh! Admission is $10 and covers light food. Buy tickets here: https://lnkd.in/e9urVg9U Come join us to meet other young professionals in the Rochester area! LinkedIn Event Link Here: https://lnkd.in/enTe9Tv7