A new class of young leaders graduated Tuesday from the Fresno Chamber of Commerce Junior Board at Fresno City Hall, marking the culmination of nine months of leadership development, civic engagement and community service. Sponsored by Me-n-Ed’s Pizzeria, the Junior Board program was created to give high school students an active role in shaping the future of the Fresno business community.
The program, which just completed its 15th year, is free to participants.
“I’m always proud to see who goes through this program and what they go on to accomplish,” said Chamber CEO Scott Miller.
The Fresno Chamber’s mission is to create a healthy business climate that allows the entire community to thrive. Chamber leaders say one of the best ways to secure that future is by investing in the next generation today.
“We’re really trying to groom future leaders in the Chamber,” said Tom Ferdinandi, owner of Me & Ed’s and Executive VP and COO of Milano Restaurants International.
“Not only are we looking at the business decisions,” Ferdinandi said, “but also taking a look at what happens in our community, if it’s improving schools or improving roads. All of that these young people need to know. They’re our future leaders.”
The Junior Board was established to provide students with firsthand experience in leadership, advocacy and professional development, while helping them better understand the connection between business success and community prosperity.
Throughout the program, students learned how to conduct meetings, practice public speaking, engage in outreach and participate in group decision-making. Members also developed project ideas, learned the fundamentals of project management and gained exposure to local businesses and community organizations throughout Fresno County.
“We’ve learned about leadership, business and how our city works,” said student Carrington Alexander. “We’ve met incredible leaders and been given opportunities that will stay with us for most of our lives.”
The program is open to Fresno County high school students aged 14 to 19 who are interested in leadership development, community involvement and collaborative problem-solving. Participants meet monthly from September through May at the Fresno Chamber office and work together on projects designed to positively impact their schools, neighborhoods and the broader community.
Organizers say the program is about more than leadership training: it is about preparing students to become active contributors to Fresno’s future. By collaborating with local government agencies and community partners, Junior Board members gain practical experience while learning the importance of civic responsibility and community engagement.
“We all came into this program from different walks of life,” said Alexander. “What started as introductions nine months ago became friendships. What started as a room full of unfamiliar faces became a room full of people who are willing to support one another and who are ready to serve our community.”
For more information on the 2026-2027 Junior Board cohort, contact Government Affairs assistant Samantha Forgey (SForgey@FresnoChamber.com) or call 559-495-4818.
For more updates on Fresno County development and business initiatives, stay connected with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce.
