The Soap Box Derby is proud to announce the launch of its new Young Professional Leadership Council (YPLC), an initiative designed to engage current and former participants in leadership, service, and organizational growth.

Open to alumni and racers ages 13–30, the Council will serve in an complementary, ambassadorial role, supporting strategic initiatives, volunteering during Annual Race Week, and helping strengthen alumni engagement and the overall Derby Experience.

The Soap Box Derby’s mission is to Inspire the Next Generation of Champions through hands-on STEM learning and character development. The Young Professional Leadership Council ensures that the voice of the Champion continues to help shape the organization’s future.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership

• Serve in a volunteer complementary capacity to the President & CEO and staff.
• Provide youth and alumni perspective on programs and engagement strategies.
• Align Young Professional Leadership Council efforts with organizational mission and strategic priorities.
• Represent the organization at events and initiatives as requested.

Volunteer Engagement

• Commit meaningful volunteer hours during Annual Race Week.
• Support select events, outreach efforts, and organizational initiatives.
• Assist with alumni engagement and recruitment efforts.

Meeting Participation

• Attend a minimum of (4) quarterly meetings.
• Review materials in advance and participate constructively.
• Participate in project teams or working groups as assigned.

Representation & Conduct

• Uphold professionalism, respect, and inclusion.
• Adhere to Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest policies.
• Represent the Soap Box Derby positively in public and digital spaces.

 Officer Roles (If Applicable)

• Chair – Leads meetings and serves as liaison to staff.
• Vice Chair – Supports Chair and leads assigned initiatives.
• Secretary – Records minutes and tracks attendance.

Officers appointed by the President & CEO during the pilot year; subsequent officers elected by Young Professional Leadership Council members with CEO confirmation.

Qualifications

• Current or Former Soap Box Derby participant.
• Ages 13–30 at time of appointment.
• Demonstrated leadership, service commitment, and professionalism.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to commit to Race Week volunteer service.
• Parent/guardian consent required for members under 18.

Core Competencies

• Leadership & Initiative
• Communication & Collaboration
• Volunteerism & Accountability
• Ambassadorial Representation
• Integrity & Respect

Work Environment

• Volunteer leadership position
• Quarterly meetings (virtual or in-person)
• Required presence during Annual Race Week
• Occasional participation in additional events
• Collaborative, mission-driven environment

Hannah Oleson | Secretary
Karlye is an Environmental Science major at Paul Smith’s College representing Region 9 from Rochester, New York. She competed for 14 years across the Stock, Super Stock, Masters, and Legacy divisions. She notes that Paul Smith’s College is so small it feels more like a summer camp than a traditional university.

Hannah Oleson
Keegan is a freshman at Archbishop Hoban High School representing Region 6. A current racer, he began his Soap Box Derby journey in the Super Stock division in 2023 and now competes in the Masters division. He will be racing in the 88th Running of the All-American World Championships this year. Outside of Derby, Keegan enjoys baking.