Willamette MBA students and alumni share in the celebration at the Portland Business Journal's "Forty Under 40" awards. (Photo: Russell Yost)

Each year the Portland Business Journal names its list of the forty most influential leaders under 40 years of age.  Earning the “Forty Under 40” recognition is no easy task – over 300 professionals are nominated from a variety of business, government and not-for-profit organizations.

The qualities of most “Forty Under 40” recipients include a strong orientation to community service, the desire to get involved in civic projects and an outstanding reputation at the organizations where these men and women work.  Profiles of winners showcase the amazing amount of talent that exists in the region.

Given this “do well and do good” mentality, it is no surprise that many Willamette University and Willamette MBA graduates have made the “Forty Under 40” list each year.   In 2013, three Willamette University alums stood out from the crowd and made the list.  Click on the links below to watch short videos about each winner:

Ryan Flynn, Pacific Power

Laila Umpleby, Make-A-Wish Foundation

Shobi Dahl, Dave’s Killer Bread

At the February 14 event, the Willamette MBA program hosted a table full of alumni (who also happened to be past “Forty Under 40” recipients).  It’s a great example of the power of the Willamette network making a difference in our community.