State Farm Agent and McLaran Leadership Foundation Board Member Alex Ferry will be named the 2026 Outstanding Young Professional at the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet on Saturday, April 18.
On Friday, March 13, we went to Northern Lights Theatre Pub to surprise Alex at the Chamber’s weekly Greeters meeting with the news of his recognition. Join us at the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet to see the surprise on video!
At just 32 years old, Alex Ferry has already become one of Salem’s most promising young leaders, possessing the rare combination of professional drive, commitment to community involvement, and the ability to inspire others. Through his work, civic engagement, and dedication to local initiatives, Alex represents a new generation of professionals invested in the future of Salem.
Operating his own State Farm Insurance agency office since 2021, Alex and his team have achieved notable success in a short amount of time, including earning recognition in the prestigious Chairman’s Circle — an honor reserved for the top 5 percent of the company. This accomplishment reflects not only the strong performance of his office but also a commitment to building meaningful client relationships while delivering consistent, high-quality service.
Even with this success, Alex is driven toward continued growth as he increases his engagement and investment in community partnerships. As a sponsor of the Salem Real Estate Investors Group, he helps support a network focused on developing and strengthening the local housing market. His involvement highlights both his entrepreneurial mindset and his desire to play an active role in helping shape Salem’s economic landscape.
At the same time, Alex remains community-focused on a macro-level, demonstrated by participating in events and programs at his alma mater, Corban University, participating in leadership at his church, Salem Heights Church, supporting events and the cause of the Union Gospel Mission, and sponsoring annual community events such as the Awesome 3000 and Hoopla. As a volunteer, Alex serves on the McLaran Leadership Foundation Board of Directors, where he helps support leadership-development opportunities and initiatives for fellow young professionals and current high school students.
Along with serving on the McLaran board, Alex is deeply involved in the McLaran Foundation and the Salem Chamber in a variety of other key volunteer roles. As a Salem Emerging Leaders Ambassador, he works to promote networking events and inspire other young Salem professionals to develop their leadership skills, build connections, and contribute to initiatives that support local businesses. And in leading by example, Alex participates in virtually every Chamber function, including the weekly Salem Chamber Greeters, for which he serves as the Incoming Vice Chair. In addition, Alex serves on several of the organization’s signature event committees, where he provides valuable insight and ideas on how to get more of the business community engaged and connected.
Those who know Alex often point to his strong sense of responsibility, integrity, and enthusiasm for community betterment. He is described as someone who not only pursues professional excellence but also understands the importance of giving back. Whether through business, mentorship, or community involvement, Alex demonstrates a willingness to devote the time and energy to efforts that benefit others.
Through continued engagement and leadership, Alex is helping to build a foundation for long-term impact — one defined by service, collaboration, and a commitment to strengthening the community he calls home.
We cannot wait to honor Alex and for you to join us at the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet!
See below for event details and make sure to get your tickets!
75th First Citizen Awards Banquet
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Salem Convention Center
GET TICKETS: https://salemchamber.org/events/first-citizen/
Join us at the banquet to celebrate Alex, the rest of our esteemed honorees, and our incredible community.
We thank our First Citizen Awards sponsors, including Presenting Sponsors Mountain West Center for Community Excellence and Pioneer Trust Bank, for making this premier Salem event possible.
