Written by Katie Case, Owensboro Health, Emergency Management Coordinator

The Leadership Kentucky ELEVATE Class of 2026 gathered in Western Kentucky from May 13–15, exploring the dynamic communities of Owensboro and Henderson through a lens of regional leadership, collaboration and innovation. Over the course of the three-day visit, participants engaged with local leaders, organizations and community initiatives - gaining firsthand insight into the opportunities and challenges shaping this vibrant region. From economic development to cultural assets to community resilience, the experience highlighted how Western Kentucky continues to grow through strong partnerships and forward-thinking leadership.

The first day began at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, where members of the Leadership Kentucky ELEVATE Class of 2026 engaged in a thoughtful discussion of personal wins and challenges experienced since the Pikeville, KY session. The group was then extended a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Owensboro by Dave Kirk, President and CEO of the Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, who highlighted the strength, economic growth and momentum of Owensboro/Daviess County. Nicole Leach, Community Engagement Supervisor for Owensboro Health and 2025 Leadership Kentucky ELEVATE alumna, officially welcomed participants to the hospital, setting the tone for a day focused on collaboration and community impact. The session continued with Debbie Zuerner, Director of Community Engagement, 2021 Leadership Kentucky alumna and LKY Board Member, who provided insight into the vital role healthcare plays within the community through outreach initiatives and strategic priorities identified in the Community Health Needs Assessment.

The class then traveled to the innovative, one-of-a-kind HealthForce Kentucky, where participants experienced immersive, high-touch learning designed to showcase the full continuum of healthcare education. Through hands-on simulations and interactive demonstrations, the group gained a deeper understanding of workforce development in the healthcare sector, highlighting how cutting-edge training environments are preparing the next generation of professionals to meet the region’s growing healthcare needs.

The class wrapped up the first day with a lively and engaging cooking session at Joy’s Cooking Classes in Owensboro. Participants enjoyed a friendly competition, teaming up to create the best homemade mashed potatoes and chicken marsala, ending the day with laughter, collaboration, and a delicious, shared experience.

On Day 2, the group traveled to Henderson, where Abby Dixon, Executive Director of the Henderson Tourism Commission, provided a warm welcome and introduction to the community. Participants then engaged in a collaborative panel discussion featuring Abby Dixon, Missy Vanderpool (Executive Director of the Henderson Chamber of Commerce), Clay Gilliam (Executive Director of the Henderson Chamber of Commerce), and Kelsey Hargis (Henderson City Commissioner and Chair of the Henderson Chamber of Commerce). The panel highlighted the strong partnerships between tourism, economic development, and the Chamber, emphasizing the significant growth and community success that have been driven through intentional collaboration and shared vision.

Lunch provided a unique and engaging experience at Hometown Roots, where Sarah Stoll, Business Development Manager for the Kentucky League of Cities, led the “Dine Like a Diplomat” etiquette class. Participants enjoyed not only a delicious meal but also gained valuable insights into professional dining etiquette, adding a fun and educational element to the day’s programming.

The afternoon and evening concluded with an engaging panel discussion led by Janice Way, President and CEO of Leadership Kentucky, exploring the advantages, challenges, and important considerations of board service. She was joined by Austin Vowels, Attorney at Vowels Law PLC, and Duncan Taylor, Attorney at Law and Owner/Managing Partner, who shared practical insights from their legal and leadership experiences. The session was followed by an inspiring presentation on Legendary Leadership with Karen Butcher, encouraging participants to reflect on their personal leadership impact. The day wrapped up with dinner at Fetta Specialty Pizza, where attendees learned about the Chamber of Young Professionals of Owensboro and its success in attracting and engaging young leaders in meaningful community involvement.

Friday began with a tour of UniFirst in Owensboro—one of North America’s largest uniform rental and facility service companies—where participants gained insight into its expansive operations providing uniforms, protective clothing, and customized corporate apparel across diverse industries. The group then heard from Stacey Edds-Ellis, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Greater Owensboro Leadership Institute, who delivered an inspiring message on Being the Catalyst of Change, emphasizing that meaningful impact often begins close to home. The Western Kentucky session concluded with a presentation by Karen Butcher on Courageous Conversations, highlighting their importance in developing confident, effective young leaders capable of navigating challenging discussions with purpose and authenticity.

The ELEVATE Kentucky Class of 2026 will reconvene for its final session in Northern Kentucky in mid-June, where participants will continue their in-depth leadership journey. This culminating experience will provide additional opportunities for learning, connection, and reflection, ultimately leading to the graduation and celebration of the participant’s growth as emerging leaders across the Commonwealth.