TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Young Leaders at Summer Sips & Rising Stars Mixer

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE     
 
TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Young Leaders at Summer Sips & Rising Stars Mixer

POTTSTOWN, PA — The TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce (TCACC) welcomed business professionals, community leaders, and guests to its annual Summer Sips & Rising Stars Mixer on Thursday, July 9, where the Chamber recognized three outstanding young professionals whose leadership and service are making a lasting impact across the tri-county region.

The evening brought together Chamber members and guests of all ages for networking, refreshments, and the presentation of the 2026 Young Professionals Rising Stars Awards, which recognize emerging leaders who are making exceptional contributions in their careers and throughout the community.

The Chamber also extends its gratitude to Wolf, Baldwin & Associates, P.C., the event's Awards Sponsor, for its continued investment in developing the next generation of business and community leaders. Attorneys Bruce Baldwin and Christopher Rothermel presented this year's awards.

The 2026 Rising Stars Award recipients included:

Community/Social Impact Award – Amanda Eckert, Reading Royals
Although unable to attend the event, Amanda Eckert was recognized for her outstanding commitment to community engagement and volunteerism. As Corporate Partnerships & Special Events Manager for the Santander Arena and Reading Royals, Amanda also serves on the Board of Directors for Girls on the Run Berks, volunteers with ProBerco's Harmony Walk, teaches as an adjunct professor at Reading Area Community College, and is a graduate of Leadership TriCounty. Her passion for building meaningful partnerships continues to make a positive impact throughout the region.

Health & Wellness Award – Kait Weber, Unleashed Counseling
Kait Weber was honored for her leadership in expanding access to mental health resources throughout the community. A Licensed Social Worker, Kait mentors future professionals, founded the Unleashed Farm initiative, and partners with the LGBT Center to increase access to mental health services. Her innovative approach and compassionate leadership continue to improve the well-being of individuals across the region.

Game Changer Award – Owen Magers, Brixmor Property Group
Owen Magers received the Game Changer Award for his innovation, leadership, and professional accomplishments. While completing his degree at Penn State University, Owen advanced from a part-time courier to Assistant to the CEO at The Victory Bank. Today, he serves as an Executive Assistant at Brixmor Property Group, where he is recognized for his strategic thinking, process improvements, and commitment to organizational excellence and community involvement.

"These award recipients represent the future of leadership in our region," said Hailey Heimbach, Chair of TriCounty Young Professionals and Marketing & Communications Director for the TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce. "Their passion, dedication, and willingness to serve others are inspiring, and we are proud to recognize the positive impact each of them is making in our workplaces and communities."

The Summer Sips & Rising Stars Mixer also highlighted the Chamber's TriCounty Young Professionals program, which provides professionals ages 21 to 40 with opportunities for networking, professional development, leadership experiences, and community service throughout Berks, Chester, and Montgomery counties. Open to both Chamber members and non-members, the program continues to foster meaningful connections while preparing the next generation of business and community leaders.

For more information about TriCounty Young Professionals or upcoming events, visit www.tricountyareachamber.com or contact Hailey Heimbach at hailey@tricountyareachamber.com.

TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Young Leaders at Summer Sips & Rising Stars Mixer