By Paige Gurgainers –
The Springhill-North Webster Chamber of Commerce marked the 10th anniversary of its 5 Under 40 awards program by recognizing five young leaders whose careers and community involvement are helping shape the future of North Webster Parish.
The 2026 honorees are April Scott of Springhill Medical Center; Gary Odom of International Paper; Michael Morse of Springhill Fire District #11; Ty Caughman of PCI Electrical and Central Baptist Church; and Hannah Caldwell, owner of Ivey Kate’s Salon & Boutique and Ivey Kate’s Event Room.
Sponsored by Springhill Medical Center, the annual 5 Under 40 luncheon brought together community leaders, business owners, family members, friends and supporters to recognize the accomplishments and service of this year’s recipients.
Now in its 10th year, the program recognizes individuals under the age of 40 who are making an impact through their careers, businesses, families and service to the North Webster community.
To commemorate the anniversary, the Chamber incorporated the program’s history into this year’s luncheon. Quotes from previous 5 Under 40 recipients were displayed throughout the tables, allowing former honorees to share what receiving the recognition meant to them and how it impacted their lives and careers.
The reflections highlighted the growing legacy of the program and the young professionals, entrepreneurs, volunteers and community leaders recognized throughout the past decade.
April Scott
Scott, a family nurse practitioner with Springhill Medical Center, has built a career centered on caring for others while also investing her time in local youth and community health.
In addition to her professional responsibilities, Scott has been involved in coaching youth, providing sports physicals, mentoring young women, participating in breast cancer awareness efforts and supporting area schools.
Gary Odom
Odom, with International Paper, has devoted significant time outside of his career to youth athletics, recreation and volunteer service.
His involvement has included coaching baseball and flag football and serving with local parks and recreation programs. Through those roles, Odom has continued to invest in young people and families throughout the community.
Michael Morse
For Morse, service to his community began at an early age.
The Springhill Fire District #11 fire chief began serving as a junior firefighter at age 14 and has continued that commitment through a career in public safety.
During his leadership, the department has expanded its membership, strengthened training and emergency response capabilities and improved its fire insurance classification.
Ty Caughman
Caughman balances his professional career as an instrumentation professional with PCI Electrical with his service as a bi-vocational youth pastor.
His path included earning his instrumentation degree while balancing work and ministry. He has continued to use those experiences to mentor and guide young people through his church and community involvement.
Hannah Caldwell
Caldwell is the owner of Ivey Kate’s Salon & Boutique and Ivey Kate’s Event Room, businesses that have also provided opportunities for other entrepreneurs and community members to connect.
Through her businesses and events, Caldwell has worked to encourage collaboration and support among local businesses and women in the community.
Although their careers and backgrounds differ, this year’s recipients share a history of investing their time and talents in others. Their work spans healthcare, industry, public safety, ministry and entrepreneurship, reflecting the variety of ways young leaders are contributing to North Webster Parish.
The 2026 class now joins a decade of 5 Under 40 recipients recognized by the Springhill-North Webster Chamber of Commerce.