Generations & The Workplace
Understanding Differences, Building Connections

Join us for a dynamic half-day event designed to bridge generational gaps and strengthen workplace relationships across all ages. Whether you’re new to the workforce, a seasoned professional, or anywhere in between, this session is open to all community members and offers valuable insights into how we work better together.

The program kicks off with keynote speaker Brenda Clark Hamilton, who will lead a high-energy, interactive presentation on recognizing and appreciating generational differences in the workplace. Through humor, research, and group participation, Brenda explores the values and traits of each generation - helping us understand not only where others are coming from, but how to collaborate more effectively.

Then, speaker Ann Vote, IMPACT to Influence, will guide the group through practical exercises and engaging activities that put these insights into action. Participants will work together to uncover strategies that build connection, reduce friction, and enhance communication across generational lines.

This event is hosted by HYPE – Helping Young Professionals Evolve, a program of the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce. HYPE is designed for young professionals ages 21–40 who are looking to grow, connect, and make an impact. While HYPE is geared toward younger professionals, this event is open to everyone - we believe real growth happens when all generations come to the table.

Registration information
Tickets are $75 for Chamber Members/$100 for non-members. Did you know that if you work for a Chamber Member, you are a Member? Check out our directory or reach out if you have questions concerning membership!  
Register here, over the phone (507-233-4300) or email (chamber@newulm.com), or avoid the fees and pay in person at Chamber Office (1 N Minnesota St).
Registration Deadline: July 9

Speaker Bios:
Brenda Clark Hamilton is a dynamic keynote speaker who offers fresh perspectives in leadership, communication, team-building, change management, and offering one’s personal best to life, relationships, and career.  Brenda launched her speaking business in the fall of 2005, by offering training to businesses in her northern Iowa community. She spoke at her first statewide conference in January of 2008. Since that time, she has become a nationally-recognized conference speaker and audience favorite, keynoting at several hundred events around the nation.  Audiences are quick to note Brenda’s sense of humor, in-depth knowledge, high energy, and skill at keeping them engaged. She refers to her programs as ‘Fresh Coffee,’ noting that she strives to keep them new, fresh, and invigorating.  Brenda speaks at approximately 100 events each year, in every industry imaginable. Her recent speaking venues have included several trips to Colorado Springs to provide professional development for the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee. Her first international speaking event, to attendees from New York City, London, and Dublin, was virtual and mid-pandemic, in spring of 2021.  Brenda’s career experience includes coordinating professional development for 1200 Iowa teachers. She holds a Master’s degree in education.  See her website here: https://www.brendaclarkhamilton.com/

Ann Vote, Culture Coach and Motivational Speaker, has shared her IMPACT Method with over 100 audiences across the Midwest. With more than 20 years in the professional development space, she brings leadership expertise, real-world insight, and an unforgettable energy to every room she steps into. Her mission is clear: she empowers leaders to create positive change.  Her leadership and communication techniques paired with application and reflection will help you transform the way you lead. When she's not speaking and coaching, you can usually find her sipping a caramel latte at a local cafe or hiking in a Minnesota State Park. See her website here: https://www.annvote.com/

HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Evolve) helps 21 to 40-year-olds with networking, professional development, and building connections in our community.  After hosting a kick-off event in August of 2024, we are very excited about the momentum this group has. 

Now is the time to join!  If you are interested in joining HYPE, come to this event or contact Crystal at crystal@newulm.com.