Cape Cod, MA — Today, Cape Cod Young Professionals (CCYP), the leading organization for professional development and connections for the region's emerging leaders, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Emily Wagner as its new executive director, effective April 15, 2024. CCYP Board President Patrick Ehart shared the news in his opening remarks at the 8th Annual Shape the Cape Summit in Hyannis where hundreds of business and nonprofit leaders, elected officials, local employers, and local professionals gathered to discuss the issues that matter most to our region.
CCYP will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2025 and Emily takes the helm as the organization prepares for its next decade. Under her leadership, CCYP will renew and deepen its focus on connecting and promoting rising professionals and pushing for policies that improve access to career pathways and opportunities for every sector and community on Cape Cod.
Patrick Ehart, CCYP Board President:
"With deep roots on Cape Cod and a track record of success in communications and public affairs in Washington, D.C., Emily is poised to elevate the organization to new heights. The Board and I are excited about her fresh perspective and the initiatives she has planned to strengthen the connections between CCYP and the wider community, culminating in a big celebration to mark our 20th anniversary as well as a new five-year strategic plan. Her vision promises to propel us into a future filled with greater achievements and an even stronger movement to build a vibrant future for our region.”
Emily Wagner, Executive Director:
“I am humbled to be stepping into this role during a dynamic moment of change in today’s world of work. From the Great Resignation and labor shortages to the pressure we all feel to adapt to technological advancements, there are so many trends shaping today’s rising professionals. In addition, the Cape faces big barriers to access–specifically, our dual-shortage of housing and childcare–that make career development extra challenging. It’s a true honor to join such a well-established and vibrant forum for networking, learning, and advocacy and I look forward to furthering CCYP’s vital efforts to empower emerging leaders on Cape Cod to build their future here.”
About Emily
Emily Wagner became the executive director of CCYP in April 2024 where she oversees the organization’s work to connect and advance Cape Cod's workforce and community leaders. Before joining CCYP, Emily served as director of communications for the National Head Start Association and deputy director of advocacy communications for the American Library Association, where she played pivotal roles in advancing access to and funding for education and libraries by mobilizing grasstops and grassroots support and influencing public opinion and policy decisions. Emily also brings years of experience in fundraising, writing, and governance from her time in higher education and with The Pew Charitable Trusts. Originally from Brewster, Emily is a graduate of Mount Holyoke College and The Catholic University of America.