CareerSpring was thrilled to partner with the participants of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce’s Boston’s Future Leaders (BFL) Program for an impactful day of career development and networking.

Attendees gathered at our Partner, Cristo Rey Boston High School, for this special opportunity. Before the session, BFL participants heard an inspiring keynote from Robert Lewis, Jr., Nicholas President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston and a 2024 Distinguished Bostonian. Following the keynote, Advisees participated in three rounds of small-group mock interviews with BFL participants, helping strengthen their interviewing skills as they prepare for internships and early career opportunities. The event concluded with a networking session, giving attendees the opportunity to build lasting, meaningful professional connections.

“Through this partnership with CareerSpring, we’re reinforcing the importance of civic leadership across the business community,” said James E. Rooney, President & CEO of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. “We’re equipping our emerging leaders with the tools to make a meaningful impact, so they graduate from the program prepared to lead not only within their organizations, but across our region and communities. We want to develop leaders who are invested in their own growth and in creating opportunities for others.”

In his keynote, Robert Lewis, Jr. spoke about the responsibility of business leaders to work together to uplift the communities they live and work in.

“Expanding opportunity isn't the responsibility of any single sector. Progress happens when businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions, government, and community leaders work toward common goals. Each has a role to play, and none can do it alone….And that's why I'm especially excited about the work you'll be doing through CareerSpring. The conversations may be brief. The investment may seem small. But never underestimate what can happen when one person shares their experience, encouragement, and network with someone just beginning their journey.”

During the event, Erin Wederbrook Yuskaitis, Senior Director of Learning & Development at the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, spoke to how the session embodies the greater mission of the Boston’s Future Leaders program: “At its core, Boston’s Future Leaders is about developing leaders who not only grow within their organizations, but who understand their role in the broader community. When we were designing this program, it was important to me that we didn’t just talk about leadership in theory—but that we created space to actually practice leadership in service to others. Because as professional leaders, we have a responsibility not only to grow in our own careers, but to contribute to the communities we’re part of.”

Participants also heard from Maria Stotz, Regional Program Manager at CareerSpring, who shared insights on our mission and the importance of community partnerships. “It is so rewarding to see this partnership come to life. Watching our Advisees connect with professionals, share their stories, and gain confidence is a powerful reminder that opportunity grows through community. This event reflects a shared belief that every student deserves access to meaningful relationships and a strong professional network.”

“The opportunity to connect directly with students and share real-world career advice was incredibly rewarding,” said Tim Galvin, Director of Municipal Affairs at Mass General Brigham and a 2026 Boston’s Future Leaders participant. “What made the experience especially meaningful was that the conversations didn't end when the event did. I've stayed in touch with several students, including connecting one student with a community health career opportunity at my organization. Through the mock interviews and ongoing mentorship, we can help students build confidence, strengthen their professional skills, and create pathways to meaningful careers.”

In addition to this special workshop, BFL participants will complete at least two hours of individual volunteering as Advisors with CareerSpring throughout the program, providing ongoing mentorship and career support for our Advisees.

We are so grateful to everyone who invested their time to make this event possible: Erin Wederbrook Yuskaitis and the Chamber team, Rosemary Powers and the Cristo Rey Boston staff, our CareerSpring Partners, and Robert Lewis, Jr. for inspiring us all. Together, we’re opening doors for the next generation of Boston’s future leaders.