Holiday Magic!

I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the holidays and ring in the New Year than by telling 40 young security professionals that they are part of this year’s Security Systems News’ “40 under 40” Class of 2021! Getting those emails back from thankful and grateful recipients is really rewarding for me, and kind of makes me feel like Santa when he sees a child opening-up that gift they wanted but didn’t think they were going to get that year.

As one “40 under 40” told me, “This is truly an honor! I have tried for years to be in this elite group of people, and now I am ONE!”

Yes, there is still some magic in the spirit of giving! And, yes, my heart grew three sizes that day, lol!

With so much negativity and bad news swirling around these days, and many of us touched either directly, or in some way by COVID, it feels good to be able to give something back to 40 of the security industry’s brightest young stars. And, I must add that I am truly impressed with how much these young professionals have accomplished already in such a short time, with many already leading successful, multi-million-dollar companies, while inspiring others around them and giving back themselves in myriad of ways.

As SSN Managing Editor Cory Harris points out in the announcement of this year’s class, what made many in this group stand out was the way in which they are helping “guide their companies through these challenging COVID-dominated times, while leveraging new technologies and best practices, and striving to grow professionally.”

And isn’t that what it is all about? Finding the light even in the darkest of times?  

As my son pointed out in his college essay recently, the only constant right now is change and uncertainty, so we need to hold on tight and value what matter most to us in life – family, friends, loved ones! And while you’re at it, send a note, or a card, or a gift, to let them know how you feel! You’ll be amazed at what you get back in return!

Click here for the complete list of this year's winners.

Happy Holidays to the "40 under 40" Class of 2021, and Happy Holidays to all our readers!