Augusta University employees, graduates among Top 10 in 10

Two Augusta University staff members and an alumna were named to the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce’s list of the Top 10 in 10 Young Professionals to Watch in 2024.

Taylor Lamb, AU’s director of marketing and creative services, and Raysean Ricks, AU’s senior digital communications coordinator, were joined in the recognition by Textron Specialized Vehicles’ university relations lead Shiamante Grimes, who graduated with bachelor’s degrees in sociology and criminal justice.

Lamb called the recognition “validation” for the work he’s done in Augusta throughout the past decade.

“Being engaged in activities that have value and being in a meaningful role where I’m involved in the decision-making of projects in the city has grown me as a leader and energized me as a resident,” Lamb said. “Augusta University and the city are so connected. I see countless opportunities everyday of how we can further bridge the two together through unique collaborations. I am honored to lead a creative and proven team who has risen to the challenge of helping build community engagement.”

Ricks also moved to Augusta roughly 10 years ago and seized on opportunities to get involved and showcase the wonderful things happening in the city.

“Receiving this honor, in part due to my dedication to the university’s podcast, In the Wild, makes this award even more special,” Ricks said. “I’m a very proud alumnus, and I hope my passion for Augusta University shines through every episode of In the Wild. This recognition fuels my excitement to continue highlighting the unique stories and voices within our community. I am truly humble and excited for the future as we keep pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve together.”

The Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce launched the Top 10 in 10 program in 2009, in partnership with Augusta Magazine. Among the inaugural class was Mark Thompson, PhD, dean of the James M. Hull College of Business, then an associate professor for then-Augusta State University. He served as the keynote speaker for the Class of 2024’s award presentation luncheon held at the Augusta Marriott this summer and urged listeners to persevere through challenges.

“At the end of the day, can you say that you’ve moved a step closer to your goals?” he asked, later sharing, “I have good days, and I have bad days, but I grind out each day to win.”

The Top 10 in 10 Young Professionals to Watch highlights young professionals between the ages of 25 and 35 in the Augusta region. The honorees are nominated each year for Georgia Trend Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40.