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Lansing, MI – The 19th annual 10 Over the Next Ten Awards were held on Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025, at the University Club of MSU in East Lansing where this year’s recipients were formally celebrated for their achievements and potential. The event celebrates Greater Lansing’s rising leaders who demonstrate outstanding professional achievement, community involvement, and a clear vision for the future of the Lansing region.

The event was hosted by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) in partnership with Lansing 5:01, with Michigan Premier Events serving as the event management partner. Independent Bank was the presenting sponsor, the University Club of MSU the venue sponsor, and Martin Commercial Properties a supporting business sponsor.

2025 10 Over the Next Ten Award Winners represent a diverse group of 10 young trailblazers who are shaping a brighter future for Mid-Michigan:

  • Amy Adamy – Public Relations & Marketing Manager at Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL), Adamy has led major communications initiatives, including crisis response, brand recovery, and digital strategy, while expanding BWL’s digital presence. She spearheaded community programs such as the Community Resource Fairs and developed BWL’s parental leave program. An APR-certified public relations professional and Certified Tourism Ambassador, Adamy is also deeply involved in leadership and nonprofit work, including PRSA, ATHENA WIN, and Advancing Women in Energy.
  • Andrez Chuney – Founder of SORA Gardens, Chuney transforms underutilized Lansing spaces into hubs for food sovereignty, regenerative agriculture, and community empowerment. He has led signature initiatives like the Photosynthesis Event, developed local partnerships, and earned statewide recognition for advancing sustainable urban agriculture. He also serves on the Racial Equity Task Force and other boards, inspiring residents to strengthen local food systems.
  • Cirea Strode – Program Manager at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Strode leads statewide juvenile justice initiatives and trauma-informed care for youth. She founded the Books & Building Initiative to advance literacy and family engagement across Mid-Michigan and serves on the Lansing School Board, the Michigan Disability Rights Coalition, and other advocacy boards. An author and public speaker, Strode combines policy expertise with hands-on programming to improve youth outcomes and promote equity
  • Dan Olsen – Chief of Staff to the Dean of Communications Arts and Sciences at Michigan State University, Olsen is recognized for crisis management, strategic communications, and advancing record-setting fundraising initiatives. He serves as Vice President of CharlotteRising, helping revitalize the downtown, and contributes to regional and statewide service initiatives. Olsen emphasizes integrity, empathy, and collaboration in leadership to foster stronger communities across Greater Lansing.
  • Gabriella Dixon – Dixon is a finance and accounting professional at Neogen Corporation, leading process improvements, strengthening internal controls, and driving enterprise-level initiatives. She is the founder of NextGen Wealth, promoting financial literacy, and holds the title of Miss Environment USA 2025, advocating for sustainability, economic justice, and empowerment in underserved communities. Dixon balances professional excellence with mentorship and community service in Mid-Michigan.
  • Kirby Gibson – Associate Director of Residence Education for Student Learning and Leadership at Michigan State University, Gibson is also a doctoral candidate in Higher Adult and Lifelong Education. With over a decade of experience in student affairs, she has led initiatives in leadership development, equity-centered programming, and residential education, including directing the 2025 NASPA Dungy Leadership Institute. Gibson is also active in the NAACP Lansing Branch, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and other community initiatives.
  • Megan Dowell – Licensed residential builder and owner of Do-Well Remodel, Dowell has grown her woman-led business from $30,000 to over $250,000 in revenue while teaching more than 1,200 students through her homeownership classes, Knowing Your Home. Dowell partners with the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing, Habitat for Humanity, and local youth programs, advocating for women in trades and small business entrepreneurship.
  • Patrick Kayser – Founder and CEO of Capital City Sweets, Kayser also serves as a corporate real estate specialist at MSU Federal Credit Union. Since launching the dessert brand in 2021, he has grown it into its first storefront and implemented initiatives like Mission Mondays and Sundaes of the Month to support local nonprofits. Kayser is also actively involved in coaching youth sports and community volunteer work to strengthen Lansing’s economy and community.
  • Sara Majeske – Project Development Advisor with Custom Built Design & Remodeling, Majeske guides clients in transforming their homes while building lasting relationships. A longtime Lansing Regional Chamber Ambassador and graduate of the inaugural ATHENA WIN Aspiring Leaders program, she has led volunteer initiatives supporting women-owned businesses, community events, and local philanthropy, balancing professional achievements with family life and mentorship.
  • Simon Verghese – Project Manager Liaison at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Simon leads multi-million-dollar development projects across Mid-Michigan, including the $320 million New Vision Lansing redevelopment. Verghese serves on the board of Ingham Community Health Centers (Vice Chair) and the Lansing Symphony Orchestra, advocating for healthcare access, arts, and equitable economic growth. He is recognized for leadership grounded in integrity, service, and excellence.

In addition to celebrating this year’s honorees, the event featured a surprise award presentation recognizing Chris Sell, founder of Lansing 5:01. We are proud to announce the creation of the new Chris Sell Award, inspired by the innovative spirit of Lansing 5:01. Chris Sell was honored as the inaugural recipient, with the award recognizing outstanding contributions to innovation and growth in the Lansing region.

About the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce:

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce works to help businesses connect, grow, and thrive. For nearly 125 years, the Chamber has served as the voice of the Greater Lansing business community. More information about the Chamber and its programs and services can be found online at lansingchamber.org


About Lansing 5:01

Lansing 5:01 strives to retain and attract young professionals in the Lansing region by connecting both college talent and young professionals to the community’s emerging quality of life opportunities. Lansing 5:01 partners with over 35 companies and organizations across the Lansing region, including Fortune 500 companies, non-profit agencies, and creative small businesses.

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