At an early age, James Connelly, 38, developed a passion for sustainability, environmental responsibility, and economic development. His passion has remained a guiding force in his career, through which Connelly continues to make an impact on a global scale.

Matthew Danielson was named the executive director of Spokane Pride about six months ago, making him the nonprofit's first employee.

Lucas Desgrosellier, CEO and founder of GhoulzTube LLC, has amassed over 3.5 million subscribers and followers across a variety of social media platforms, with more than one billion total video views.

Micaela Kostecka, marketing director of commercial real estate brokerage Kiemle Hagood, is focused on evolving the Spokane-based company's traditional marketing practices to better reflect today's digital landscape.

Sonja Jensen has been motivated professionally by her desire to help people, serve customers, and contribute to the community. 

Nicole Bishop serves as the philanthropy manager at Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners and serves on the Spokane Public Schools Board of Directors.

Brian Washburn, regional administrator at Praxis Health Inc., understands the impact of qualitative health care. The 38-year-old has centered his career around increasing access to mental health care in rural communities and destigmatizing the need for such care.

Anna Alsept, a 2025 Spokane Journal of Business Rising Star, is credited as the driving force behind the indoor track and field season at The Podium in Spokane's North Bank neighborhood.

Melissa Koontz is being recognized as a 2025 Rising Star for her drive and dynamic personality that commands a room.

When Joey Gunning left Eastern Washington University with a business administration degree, he didn’t have a tidy answer for the classic question of what came next.