The Frederick County Chamber of Commerce and Generation Connect are proud to recognize the outstanding recipients of the 2026 Young Professional of the Year Awards. These young professionals are making a meaningful impact across Frederick County through leadership, innovation, service, education, and community involvement. From supporting students and families to advancing public health initiatives and building thriving local businesses, each honoree represents the future of our community. Join us in celebrating this year’s winners at the Generation Connect Summer Mixer on June 23rd, where we will honor their accomplishments and the lasting impact they continue to make throughout Frederick County!
Matthew Burgan | Young Professional of the Year
As a Community Paramedic with Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services, Matthew Burgan has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to public service and community health. Through his leadership in Frederick County’s overdose response and Narcan distribution efforts, Matthew has helped train more than 100 Transit Services employees and expanded access to lifesaving resources throughout the community. His work with the Community Outreach and Support Team (COAST) reflects his compassionate, person-centered approach to substance use recovery and crisis response. Beyond his direct service, Matthew has emerged as a statewide leader in mobile integrated healthcare, serving as chairperson of the Statewide Mobile Integrated Healthcare Committee for SEMSAC while continuing to advocate for harm reduction and community education.
Tim Little | Volunteer of the Year
Tim Little has made a profound impact through his volunteer work with the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program in Frederick County. His dedication to mentoring and supporting vulnerable youth helped one young man facing homelessness successfully graduate high school and reconnect with critical support services. Tim’s calm leadership, empathy, and ability to empower others have made him a respected presence within the CASA program. In addition to his volunteer service, Tim leads his own leadership coaching and mediation business, helping organizations and professionals navigate workplace conflict with compassion and understanding. His commitment to uplifting others both professionally and personally exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and community leadership.
Katie Palmer | S.T.E.A.M. Professional of the Year
Katie Palmer combines scientific expertise with a passion for communication and community connection. As Communications Manager for the American Association of Immunologists, Katie specializes in translating complex scientific research into clear, engaging information that strengthens public understanding of important health issues. Holding a Master of Public Health in Infectious Disease from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, her background includes research in antimicrobial resistance, HIV, COVID-19 vaccine response, and women’s health. Beyond her professional achievements, Katie is deeply involved in Frederick’s young adult community through her volunteer leadership at Collective Church, where she helps foster meaningful connections and support systems for young professionals navigating life after college.
Nick Masucci | Rising Star
Nick Masucci has emerged as a rising leader in higher education, mentorship, and youth development. As Assistant Director of Graduate Admission and Data Management at Hood College, Nick supports graduate enrollment initiatives while helping students navigate transformational educational opportunities. His dedication to mentorship extends beyond campus through his work as a lacrosse coach with Hood College and Team Maryland Lacrosse Club, where he focuses on leadership development and character-building for young athletes. While balancing his professional responsibilities, Nick is also completing his master’s degree in School Counseling and pursuing a future career supporting Frederick County students. His commitment to education, mentorship, and community engagement reflects the qualities of a true emerging leader.
Brian Allen | Entrepreneur of the Year
Brian Allen, co-owner of True Standard Distilling, has helped establish one of Downtown Frederick’s newest hospitality destinations through thoughtful entrepreneurship and a commitment to quality. From the earliest stages of restoring the historic North Carroll Street property, Brian approached the project with a long-term vision focused on preserving Frederick’s character while creating a modern, community-centered distillery experience. Under his leadership, True Standard Distilling has successfully launched Dangerous Summer Rum, expanded its regional presence, and created a welcoming destination that has quickly become part of Frederick’s hospitality scene. Brian’s emphasis on sustainability, teamwork, and operational excellence demonstrates the power of values-driven entrepreneurship and community investment.
Laura Nininger | Educator of the Year
Laura Nininger has dedicated more than a decade to shaping the lives of young learners through intentional, compassionate early childhood education at Kiddie Academy of Urbana. As a Pre-K Lead Teacher, Laura creates engaging, supportive learning environments that foster academic readiness, confidence, resilience, and social-emotional growth. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom through mentorship of fellow educators, collaboration with families, and contributions to school-wide initiatives, including the academy’s annual art show and charity auction. Holding the highest level of Maryland’s Early Childhood Education Credential, Laura’s commitment to excellence and her ability to make every child feel valued have made a lasting impact on students, families, and the broader Frederick County community.
Frederick Chamber Insights is a news outlet of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. For more information about membership, programs and initiatives, please visit our website.