Vivian Shannon, Fulcrum’s executive director, will be the inaugural speaker at the Young Catholic Professionals (YCP) Seattle’s first Executive Speaker Series on May 9 at 7 p.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Kirkland.
The Executive Speaker Series, which is one of the YCP’s signature events across the nation, gives influential Catholic professionals a chance to share their personal, professional, and faith journeys with attendees.
“At our Executive Speaker Series, people can expect to gain knowledge and inspiration from seasoned professionals as they speak about their personal experience integrating their faith with their work,” said Annabelle Larson, president of the YCP Seattle chapter. “Speakers might choose to share some practical tips that young professionals can incorporate for being Catholic in the workplace, a more successful professional, or how to overcome certain challenges.”
Fulcrum welcomed the new Seattle chapter of YCP this year. The national organization, which provides networking and fellowship opportunities for young professionals practicing the Catholic faith, began in 2010 and kicked off its Seattle chapter with an inaugural event in March 2023.
“Being able to bring YCP to Seattle is so exciting,” said Annabelle. “You can tell that young professionals are craving an environment to grow together in their faith and work!”
Fulcrum’s engagement manager, Stephanie Singler, attended YCP Seattle’s second event and connected with some of the young professionals looking for Catholic fellowship. “The YCP networking event was so much fun and very impressive,” said Stephanie. “The crowd was energetic and lively! I enjoyed meeting all of the young Catholics connecting with each other through faith.”
“There is such a vibrant culture of community here in Western Washington,” said Annabelle. “So far we have had two great events that have had fantastic attendance from all around the Archdiocese of Seattle. For some of the attendees, this was their first introduction to archdiocesan young adult activities. It is so encouraging to see people getting out of their normal groups and mingling with people they wouldn’t typically!”
Vivian said she looked forward to speaking at the May 9 event and sharing the wisdom she had gathered on her own personal and professional journey.
“On behalf of the Fulcrum Foundation, I am so excited to give a big welcome to the Seattle chapter of Young Catholic Professionals!” said Vivian. “This is an amazing organization that will provide so many opportunities for young people looking to live and grow their faith in their personal and professional lives. I am humbled and blessed by the opportunity to share some of the lessons I have learned in my own professional journey as a Catholic. Fulcrum will be looking for more ways to connect and deepen our partnership with YCP and its members in the future.”
“I am looking forward to hearing Vivian speak! Her experience in growing and developing teams really showcases her passion for bringing people together. Her varied resume allows for people from different industries to see the diversity a role can take,” said Annabelle.
The event is free and open to all, said Annabelle. “These events are not only an avenue to make connections with other young professionals but also with seasoned professionals that can provide other opportunities to increase your professional and personal networks. There will be complementary food and drinks. I highly encourage anyone in their 20s and 30s to take the time and check us out. Registering is always encouraged but walk-ins are very welcome.”