 | The Young Professionals (YP) Summit, presented by Capital City Bank, brings together local young professionals to hear from community leaders and network with peers. On Friday, May 8, attendees will learn new ways to grow personally and professionally through workshops and keynote speakers, and five outstanding young professionals will be recognized with the annual Future 5 Awards.
You can expect thought-provoking breakout sessions, a compelling keynote presentation, and specially designed opportunities to connect with fellow young professionals.
MEET OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
Charlie Ward, Jr. is a husband, father, mentor and coach who embodies the principles of integrity, hard work and faith in God. Described as a once-in-a-lifetime athlete and human being, Charlie’s commitment to serve others is deeply respected in the sports community and far beyond. His calm demeanor and powerful leadership message of preparation, perseverance and patience set strong examples for business leaders, organizations, students and families.
After achieving the remarkable feat of excelling in both college football and professional basketball, Charlie Ward has dedicated himself to coaching, mentoring and inspiring others through his leadership and faith. He serves in an advisory capacity on the AAU Alumni Youth Basketball Council. As former head coach of the boys varsity basketball team at Florida State University High School, he led Florida High to its first state Boys Basketball title since 1963 and earned consecutive conference Coach of the Year honors. In April 2025, he was named Head Coach of Florida A&M University Men’s Basketball.
Charlie Ward is a man whose greatness and grace know no bounds. He and his wife Tonja have been married for 30 years, and they have three children, Caleb, Hope and Joshua. The Wards underwrote and produced youth development sports camps throughout the country from 1996– 2006, co-produced youth music & sports events with Christian Athletes United for Spiritual Empowerment (CAUSE) at four NBA All-Star Weekends 2001–2004 and continued to quietly donate funds to churches and schools. In 2015, they established a charitable foundation, now The Charlie and Tonja Ward Family Foundation, to leave a legacy of giving back. The Wards are also founders of Charlie Ward Champions Ranch, and are currently working on the development of the multi-sport, multi-service campus that will serve youth and families in Tallahassee and beyond.
Take advantage of Early Bird Registration pricing through Tuesday, April 14th!
$120/registration for Access Members
(Must be logged in at time of registration to activate Member Rate)
$135/registration for non-members
Please contact Beth at bpupke@talchamber.com with any questions regarding registration or to request assistance with Member login information.
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