During their December meeting held Friday at Papa Don’s, members of the Bourbon County Young Professionals League voted to elect officers and board members for the new year, also discussing what new things they might like to see in 2016.

Bailey Lyons of the Fort Scott Community College was named the new president of the YPL while 2015 president Heather Smith will serve as the treasurer. Chris Petty is the new vice president and Alex Horttor the secretary.

New executive board members include Anna Allen, Jared Leek, Clayton Whitson, Jessica Cook and Melissa Wise. Returning board members are Mark Shead and Jamie Armstrong.

During their final meeting of the year, participants also had a chance to write down what they valued about the YPL as well as something they might like to see changed or added. Smith also shared information about the goals of the YPL.

“The vision of YPL is to be a catalyst for a better community,” Smith said.

Lyons said they follow a quarterly format, with monthly meetings focusing on personal or professional development, a presentation on a business or topic that is relevant to YPL members and the third meeting each quarter focusing on networking.

“We really are trying to make it to where everyone who comes gets something out of it,” Lyons said, adding it is also a way for young professionals to build relationships and realize they are not the only ones in town.

The group also received an update on how the soup line fundraiser held a couple weeks ago on behalf of the Beacon went. The event raised about $3,300.

The meeting also included announcements such as concerning the YPL Christmas social that will be held on December 18, at 6:30 p.m. at Lyons’ home. Guests are encouraged to bring a $10 gift for a gift exchange as well as a snack to share.

The YPL board will hold a strategic planning meeting January 8, from 5 to 8 p.m., others interested in giving their input can also attend.