Connect Marquette
Connect Marquette was created by the Lake Superior Community Partnership in 2010 (previously named 40 Below) as a professional development organization designed to introduce and engage individuals to the County’s business community and help them expand their networking opportunities.
Whether your goal is to develop your professional network, better connect to civic and philanthropic activities in the community, or grow professionally, Connect Marquette has many activities and events created just for you! With multiple membership tiers available, there is a myriad of opportunities for employers and individuals alike to get involved. To become a member, go to the Connect Marquette website and select the membership option that fits your needs.
Mission Statement: To facilitate the growth of talent, connections, community, and leadership opportunities in Marquette County.
Vision Statement: To be an instrumental part of the long-term success of individuals in Marquette County through collaboration, inclusiveness, innovation, and the U.P. work ethic.
Organizational Structure
Events
Events are the heart of the organization and Connect Marquette has gone virtual for the time being. They execute well-rounded events throughout Marquette County for Connect Marquette members that align with the Connect Marquette mission -to facilitate the growth of talent, connections, community, and leadership opportunities in Marquette County. These include; Networking Events, Special Topic Events, Professional Development, Volunteer, and Recreational and Family activities alike.
Lunch with Leaders
Our community is constantly working towards positive objectives and goals that improve the quality of life in the U.P. Connect Marquette anticipated that hosting a lunch series with local leaders would bring together a special group of members and non-members that are interested in the guest speaker’s trade and unique perspective. They offer an accessible setting to get to know, learn, and discuss relevant topics that fit our mission; being an instrumental part of the long-term success of individuals in Marquette County through collaboration, inclusiveness, innovation, and the U.P. work ethic.
Professional Development Conference
Hosted at Northern Michigan University, the Connect Marquette Professional Development Conference consists of learning and discussion focused on current topics suitable for a general audience looking for personal growth, professional development, and unique opportunities for lifelong learning.
Iron Range Roll
The Iron Range Roll is a 16-mile point-to-point fun (but timed) race from Ishpeming to Marquette along the Iron Ore Heritage Trail. This ride celebrates the heritage and recreational culture of Marquette County all in the name of giving back to our community’s youth via youth programs with local partners. For more information on the race and how to become an event sponsor please visit: www.connectmarquette.org/iron-range-roll
Member of the Month
Every month, the membership committee will select an active member to highlight, showcasing why they joined Connect Marquette, and the value their membership holds. The member of the month is shared in our monthly newsletter, website, Facebook page, and more!
Business and Corporate Memberships
Are you looking for professional development opportunities for your employees in Marquette County? Connect Marquette offers employers the opportunity to sponsor their employee’s memberships while receiving a bulk discount. Sponsoring memberships allows your employees to represent your organization while participating in multiple facets of the organizations, from networking at monthly socials, building connections in the community, the experience of sitting on one of our many committees, or joining our board of directors. With three levels of sponsorship, there are endless opportunities to get involved!
Bronze- Up to 4 employees
Silver- Up to 12 employees
Gold- Up to 20 employees
Tom Baldini Scholarship
The Tom Baldini Scholarship was created in 2018 by Connect Marquette, then “40 Below”, to recognize two members of our community who have shown an interest in the community and civic engagement. Tom Baldini, who passed away in 2017, was an active supporter of our group. In the spirit of his unwavering commitment to Marquette County, the organization seeks to foster leadership and civic engagement among its membership by awarding this annual scholarship. The award also aims to develop award recipients’; leadership abilities, encourage engagement with the community, and help expand their networking opportunities.
Volunteer
The volunteer committee works to identify volunteers for assistance with our flagship events and includes community engagement events quarterly throughout the year. Our committee was formed in 2018 out of the need to organize effectively and outreach to community organizations that need help and give back to the general public. Check out our website for more details.
