#InspiringExcellence – Two ECC Alumni Named “Outstanding Young Professionals”
#InspiringExcellence – Two ECC Alumni Named “Outstanding Young Professionals”
The Washington Area Chamber of Commerce recognized its fourth class of “Outstanding Young Professionals” at its annual member luncheon at the end of September, including two East Central College alumni!
Angie Williams, branch manager for US Bank, and Rachelle Elbert, licensed realtor for Coldwell Banker Premier, were part of a group of 12 young professionals who were honored. A selection committee comprised of Chamber and Missourian representatives reviewed the nominations and made the selections.
Both Rachelle and Angie credit their time at ECC with helping them succeed in life.
“I had a great experience at ECC,” Rachelle explained. “I liked being close to home, and I was still able to work full time. The teachers were all nice and helpful.”
She graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration in 2013. Soon after, she started her career path.
“I knew that I wanted to get into real estate, so I enrolled in class to get my license right after graduation. I wanted to do something that was challenging,” she said. “I also wanted something that would allow me to do the things I love most – meeting and helping people.”
Rachelle is a member of the Franklin County Board of Realtors and serves on the organization’s publicity committee and planning committee. She also volunteers at Longmeadow Rescue Ranch, Washington Area Chamber of Commerce events, including festivals and the Washington Town and Country Fair.
Angie also spends a good deal of time helping others. She is a member of the Washington Jaycees, serves on the board for Downtown Washington Inc. and serves as a board member for the U.S. Bank Development Network.
For her, going to ECC was about finding a happy balance.
“I married my best friend after high school, and we started our journey together,” she said. “I was so grateful to have a community college as an option. I wanted to focus on my education and career along with being focused on family and my personal life.”
She graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Business Management in 2002.
“I had a great experience attending East Central College. Looking back on my experience now, I realize going to ECC was a great transition period for me” Angie said. “I was fortunate I was able to use the A+ Program, and when I finished with my degree I did not have a large amount of student loans to worry about.”
She now manages two bank locations and 14 employees.
“A large portion of my job is business development and serving in the community. I really enjoy working with people and helping new employees grow and develop their career paths. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences I received from ECC as they have influenced where I am today,” she said.