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PrintTYPros' top leaders - Chris Oden
Executive director of Tulsa's Young Professionals, Tulsa Metro Chamber
Age: 32
Crew: All of them!
Hometown: Fairfax, Okla.
How long in Tulsa?: Seven-plus years
How long a TYPros member?: Since the launch in April 2005; started out on the Colleges & Universities Crew
College/major/degree: Oklahoma State University, Bachelor of Arts in advertising
What brought you to Tulsa?
At first, my husband. I really love Tulsa. It’s a great city with so much to offer and I feel that it has an even more promising future.
Why did you get involved in TYPros?
I got involved on the Colleges and Universities work crew in April 2005 with the launch of TYPros. I wanted to get involved to make a difference in our city. I believe TYPros has made a positive impact and that there’s even more potential for what we can accomplish.
What was your greatest accomplishment while on (even if still on) the TYPros leadership team?
Establishing TYPros as one of the largest and leading YP groups in the nation; constantly working to keep and attract bright, young talent in Tulsa.
Favorite TYPros event:
We have so many great events, but I think the Next/Now Art Show that TYPros hosts to feature young artists is a pretty phenomenal event. I’m also really looking forward to the TYPros’ anniversary party on April 24. This will be a great opportunity to celebrate our incredible success and share our many accomplishments.
Something most people don’t know about you:
Well, they may know now, but I’m going to be in “Rigoletto” with the Tulsa Opera Feb. 27 and March 5 and 7. I love the arts and am so happy to be contributing directly.
I love Tulsa because …
Tulsa offers the arts and entertainment of a large city with the ease and friendliness of a small town. Plus, Tulsa is the kind of town where someone can really make a difference and that’s empowering.
Tulsa in five words or less:
Cultured, Friendly, Beautiful, Emerging.
Something surprising YPs outside of Tulsa would learn/find if they visited/moved here:
Many don’t know what to expect of Tulsa, but I think anyone visiting here is always pleasantly surprised. Our southern hospitality is the best.
When I’m not in the office, I’m …
Spending time with my family and enjoying what Tulsa has to offer: great restaurants, shopping and culture.
Single/married/dating/kids?
I’m lucky to be married to my amazing husband, Grant. We have a gorgeous daughter, Ella, age 2.
Editor's note: Chris will be leaving her position as executive director on March 31 to be an account supervisor at Saxum PR.
