Becoming BN 2025
The McLean County Chamber of Commerce hosted a three-part “Becoming BN” social networking series this summer. The series brought together young professionals, interns, and local leaders to foster connections, highlight local businesses and events, and provide professional insight from a variety of industries.
The first Becoming BN event was held at BloNo Pizza Co. During this event attendees heard from Hannah Horn, Downtown Development Specialist for the City of Bloomington, Melissa Chrisman, President & CEO of Visit BN (Bloomington-Normal Area Convention & Visitors Bureau), and Anna Kowall, Operations Assistant for the McLean County Chamber of Commerce.
The second session, was hosted at ISU’s Hancock Stadium with a focus on entrepreneurship and community service. Speakers during this event included Justin Beeman, Manager at Iron Coyote Challenge Park; Wendell Miller, Owner of OZYN; and Alexis Jackson, Owner of Chapters & Brews. The event also featured several nonprofit organizations, including The Baby Fold, Lifelong Access, Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics, the Humane Society of Central Illinois, and Home Sweet Home Ministries.
The third and final event took place at Crafted Coffee Brews. The featured speakers included Jacob Bickett and Brian Senn from State Farm, along with Emma Rouger from Country Financial with a focus on navigating early career growth and exploring the Bloomington-Normal area.
By combining professional insights from local leaders, interactive networking activities, and strong engagement with nonprofits and businesses, each event provided a well-rounded experience that encouraged both personal and professional development. The Chamber is proud of the relationships and momentum this year’s events helped spark. With that, we’re excited to bring Becoming BN back again next year and continue building an even stronger community of young professionals!
